The transfer of Orlando Pirates defender Mbekezeli Mbokazi to MLS side
Chicago Fire is not just a significant move for the player—it’s the
culmination of a dramatic six-month surge in his profile and market value.
Initially valued at a modest €200,000 (R3.8 million) at the start of the
2025/26 season in June, the 20-year-old’s stock has skyrocketed, propelled
by a series of high-profile achievements.
His rapid ascent began with a standout pre-season under new Pirates coach
Abdeslam Ouaddou, who not only praised the defender but also entrusted him
with the captain’s armband in friendlies. Mbokazi was subsequently named
one of the club’s permanent captains, becoming one of the youngest leaders
in the team’s history.
Shortly after, he made his senior international debut for Bafana Bafana in
June 2025, a milestone that saw his market value triple to €600,000 (R11.4
million) almost immediately.
The momentum continued as he cemented his place in the national team’s
defense during the 2026 FIFA World Cup qualifiers, while also helping
Pirates secure the MTN8 title. By this stage, his valuation had soared to
€1 million (R19 million).
With growing interest from overseas clubs, his estimated value climbed
further to €1.2 million (R22.8 million) before Chicago Fire finalized a
deal reportedly worth $3 million (R52.2 million) in December—a figure far
exceeding his final listed valuation and a testament to his perceived
potential.
In just half a year, Mbokazi transformed from a promising squad player
into a Bafana regular, a title-winning captain, and a multi-million-rand
export, marking one of the most rapid and lucrative rises in recent South
African football history.
Market values referenced are courtesy of Transfermarkt.
