Orlando Pirates supporters arrived at Orlando Stadium on Tuesday night expecting to see Mbekezeli Mbokazi marshalling the defence as he has all season. Instead, his absence fuelled the biggest question dominating South African football this week: has the Bafana Bafana international already sealed a deal with Chicago Fire?
The rumour mill went into overdrive after reports emerged that the 20-year-old had travelled to the United States with his agent to negotiate what could be one of the most lucrative outgoing transfers in recent PSL history. With Pirates beating Chippa United 2–0 without him on the pitch, fans were left hungry for answers.
And the club has finally spoken.
Pirates Navigate Chippa Test Without Their Defensive General
When the matchday squad dropped, supporters immediately clocked it. Mbokazi was nowhere on the team sheet, and his usual centre-back colleagues Nkosinathi Sibisi and Lebone Seema were tasked with anchoring the back line.
Chippa United made Pirates work hard for the win, holding firm in the first half before late strikes from Evidence Makgopa and Oswin Appollis secured all three points. The victory lifted the Buccaneers level with Mamelodi Sundowns at the top of the PSL table, with Bucs still holding a game in hand.
But even with the win, the conversation in the stands and on social media had a single theme: What is happening with Mbokazi?
The MLS Courtship Intensifies
Reports in the United States suggest Chicago Fire have tabled a deal worth around US$3 million, roughly R50 million, to land the highly rated defender.
According to those close to the negotiations, Mbokazi and his representative Karabo Mathang-Tshabuse flew to Chicago on Friday to hold face-to-face talks. The MLS club is reportedly offering a long-term contract and is eager to complete the move swiftly.
If the deal is formalised, Mbokazi may have already played his final match in a Pirates jersey. Chicago Fire are said to prefer that he skips any remaining domestic fixtures, including the Carling Knockout final on 6 December against Marumo Gallants.
Across social media, supporters are torn. Some argue it is the right time for the young star to take the next step, while others fear the gap he would leave in Pirates’ defence.
Ouaddou Pushes Back On Exit Speculation
When asked about the growing rumours after the victory over Chippa, head coach Abdeslam Ouaddou kept his response sharp and firm.
“I am not aware of this news. For me he is still in my group,” he said.
“He is one of the most important players in the team, and as far as I know he is still my player.”
While supportive, the coach’s comments did little to calm the fan base. Many believe the silence from the club in recent weeks suggests talks are far more advanced than the technical team is letting on.
Why Mbokazi’s Exit Would Hit Pirates Hard
Mbokazi has become a pillar of consistency at Pirates since making his debut under former coach Jose Riveiro. At just 20, he has shown remarkable composure, athleticism and tactical maturity.
Even with a new coach, a new system and increased competition, Mbokazi not only kept his place but thrived, earning the vice-captain’s armband this season.
His performances have kept seasoned defenders such as Tapelo Xoki on the bench and made it incredibly difficult for Olisa Ndah and Thabiso Sesane to reclaim their spots after injuries.
If he leaves, the Sibisi-Seema partnership appears the most likely solution for the remainder of the season.
What Comes Next For The Buccaneers?
Pirates now shift their focus to Saturday’s clash against Gavin Hunt’s Durban City at Moses Mabhida Stadium. City have quietly put together an impressive run and will not be an easy hurdle.
For the Buccaneers, the stakes are high. A win could send them into the mid-season break top of the table, reinforcing their title credentials.
And beyond the league, Pirates have a golden chance to close the year with silverware when they meet Marumo Gallants in the Carling Knockout final on 6 December.
Whether Mbokazi will still be a Buccaneer by then is the million-dollar question.
Source: Goal ZA
Featured Image Source: WonderMahlobo on X
