Bradley Carnell has highlighted why Mbekezeli Mbokazi’s MLS move is perfectly timed and could be a career-defining moment, giving the rising star a massive boost.
The 20-year-old Mbokazi recently joined MLS side Chicago Fire FC, which competes in the league’s Eastern Conference, after impressing at Orlando Pirates.
While the move generated mixed feelings amongst football enthusiasts, Carnell is optimistic about what the future holds for the Bafana Bafana stalwart.
Even Bafana coach Hugo Broos wasn’t impressed, calling it a step backward saying Mbokazi’s agent prioritised money over his career.
WHAT COACH BRADLEY CARNELL SAID
However, for Carnell, the move is well-timed, coinciding with the 2026 FIFA World Cup, co-hosted by the United States, Canada, and Mexico. The 2026 FIFA World Cup kicks off on June 11 and wraps up on July 19, 2026 — that will be the 23rd edition of the tournament.
In an interview with FARPost, Carnell said, ” In the next six months, all focus shifts to America because of the World Cup – and that’s actually a blessing in disguise for him, especially that he will be playing here with Bafana. Playing for Chicago raises his profile and will also make him more visible at such a platform. Looking at how he rose, he is going to attract more attention during the World Cup.
“Playing in America now could be the perfect prep for the 2026 FIFA World Cup – he’ll get more exposure, experience, and might just level up big time. He is destined for Europe, so the MLS may just be a stepping stone for him.”
Carnell also hopes Mbokazi and Olwethu Makhanya will forge a defensive pairing for Bafana Bafana, despite playing for different teams in the MLS — Chicago Fire FC and Philadelphia Union, respectively.
Carnell added, “So, it’ll be interesting to see how well Mbokazi does in the league. Mbokazi was automatic selection over Makhanya, and Makhanya is doing very well.
“Now we can see both players playing in the same league, how they do, you know. Oh, he must pack his winter jacket — it’s very cold in Chicago. I think he has the quality.”
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