Timeline revealed: When will Mbekezeli Mbokazi join Chicago Fire?

Following Tuesday’s confirmation of Mbekezeli Mbokazi’s transfer from Orlando Pirates to Chicago Fire FC, clarity has emerged regarding when the Bafana Bafana star will officially join his new Major League Soccer [MLS] outfit.

The 20-year-old, whose stellar performances earned him a lucrative move to the United States, has a busy schedule to navigate on two continents before wearing the Fire jersey in a competitive match.

Despite the deal being finalised, Mbokazi will not depart immediately. According to an official statement from Orlando Pirates, management from both clubs agreed that the defender remains available for his final domestic assignment.

Mbokazi, popularly known as “TLB,” is set to play in the Carling Knockout Cup final against Marumo Gallants this Saturday, December 6, at the New Peter Mokaba Stadium in Polokwane. Having already lifted the MTN8 title this campaign, Mbokazi has the opportunity to sign off his Buccaneers career with a domestic double.

“It has been agreed that Mbokazi will remain with Orlando Pirates until the final official fixture of 2025,” read the club’s statement. “He will then embark on a new chapter… across the Atlantic.”

AFCON Commitment By Mbokazi

Immediately following the final, Mbokazi’s focus shifts to the international stage. He is a key component of Hugo Broos’ Bafana Bafana squad for the upcoming AFCON tournament in Morocco, which runs from December 21, 2025, to January 18, 2026.

Projected MLS Debut

The young defender is scheduled to travel to Chicago only after concluding his international duties in Morocco. Consequently, he will miss the start of the MLS pre-season.

He is realistically projected to make his debut for Chicago Fire when they face Houston Dynamo in a league fixture on February 22, 2026.

The Buccaneers youth product leaves a significant void, having amassed 19 appearances this season and playing a crucial role in Bafana Bafana qualifying for both the 2026 FIFA World Cup and the 2025 AFCON.