Orlando Pirates winger Oswin Appollis has described Mbekezeli Mbokazi’s move to Chicago Fire FC as a motivation to other players at the club.
Mbokazi has secured a move to the Major League Soccer [MLS] side on a deal that runs until 2029, with a club option for the 2029/30 season. He will occupy an Under-22 initiative slot and an international roster position.
The 20-year-old has made tremendous progress in his career since making his professional debut in March 2025.
Among others, Mbokazi has now become a regular in the Bafana Bafana team under coach Hugo Broos.
He has also been named in the final list of players that will represent South Africa at the upcoming 2025 Africa Cup of Nations [AFCON] in Morocco.
MBOKAZI MAKES HUGE IMPACT IN ONLY EIGHT MONTHS SINCE HIS DEBUT
He leaves the Buccaneers having won two trophies [MTN8 and Carling Knockout Cup]. ‘TLB’, as he is affectionately known, played his final match for the Soweto giants in the Carling Knockout Cup final against Marumo Gallants at the New Peter Mokaba Stadium in Polokwane on Saturday night. He also captained the side on the day.
WHAT OSWIN APPPOLLIS SAID ABOUT MBEKEZILE MBOKAZI’S MOVE TO THE MLS
Appollis has backed Mbokazi to succeed in the MLS and believes the defender’s move will also motivate his now former teammates at Pirates.
“It’s a motivation for all the players. It took him, I think, a year or nine months for him to get the move. He deserves it,” said Appollis.
Appollis also shared some insights on what makes the former Pirates’ DStv Diski Challenge [DDC] player special.
“As you can see, as young as he is, he’s a grown man, technical, defending and everything. I just want to wish him all the best. He deserves it, and I know he will do well in Chicago.”
RELATED STORY: Chicago Fire confirm signing of Pirates & Bafana defender Mbokazi