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Chicago Fire FC v CF Montreal

Mbokazi hailed as one of the most popular players in MLS

When the 20-year-old moved from Orlando Pirates to Chicago Fire, it triggered a massive upsurge on the Chicago club's social media, which saw 180,000 followers join in the first 48 hours. That figure has since grown to over half a million South African social media accounts now following the club, making up a quarter of their entire online audience.

Robert Lewandowski Barcelona 2025-26 Super Cup

Lewandowski sets goals target to secure Barca contract extension

Robert Lewandowski is reluctant to leave Barcelona as a free agent and has reportedly set a goal target that will help him to earn a contract extension. The prolific Polish striker, who is now 37 years of age, is said to have a “very good” offer on the table from MLS side the Chicago Fire. He is ready to delay any move to the United States and remain in Catalunya.

Houston Dynamo FC v Chicago Fire FC

WATCH: Mbokazi struggles in MLS debut despite moment of brilliance

The 20-year-old started his first competitive match for his new club, but it did not go as planned. Despite taking the lead in the first half through Hugo Cuypers, Chicago succumbed to two second half goals to slump to their first defeat of the Eastern Conference season. Puso Dithejane also made his debut when he replaced his fellow countryman in the 88th minute.

Flemming Berg, Mamelodi Sundowns TD

REVEALED! How Sundowns' Berg sold Mbokazi to MLS

The move made by the Bafana Bafana defender to switch from the Premier Soccer League to Major League Soccer remains one of the most controversial transfer stories in recent history. One of the high-profile figures to oppose it was Hugo Broos, and the coach's comments almost rocked the national team camp as it prepared for the 2025 AFCON finals in Morocco. While some argued the move was made in haste, others felt it could end up opening the window for the defender to Europe eventually.

Mbekezeli Mbokazi, Chicago Fire, December 2025

Mbokazi breaks silence on criticism of Chicago Fire move

The 20-year-old surprised everyone when his move to MLS was announced in December 2025 shortly before the 2025 Carling Knockout Cup final where he captained his side to victory against Marumo Gallants. In a year in which he had broken into the Bucs first team and Hugo Broos Bafana Bafana set up as a teenager, it was expected that a European football would be his next destination.

Puso Dithejane, TS Galaxy, November 2025

Dithejane's father sets record on son's standoff with Chiefs, takes aim at 'problem' author Johnson

The 21-year-old’s exit from Naturena might have come as a blessing in disguise, thrusting him into the limelight and opening doors to regular football at a time when some Amakhosi youngsters have struggled for Premier Soccer League opportunities. His spell at TS Galaxy provided the platform he needed to rebuild momentum and showcase his talent away from the intense pressure of the Soweto giants. That progress has now earned him a move abroad, with the youngster sealing a switch to Major League Soccer outfit Chicago Fire FC.

Puso Dithejane, TS Galaxy, August 2025

Chiefs coach told Dithejane 'hide under the bed!' when Sundowns came knocking

Since he was a teenager, the forward showed the potential of developing into a top player. Now, just 21, after making his presence felt in the Premier Soccer League, the South African star is set for an entirely new challenge after signing for Chicago Fire. Even before he was signed by the Major Soccer League side, he was a subject of intense interest from PSL giants Amakhosi and Masandawana.