Orlando Pirates defender Mbekezeli Mbokazi continues to attract attention from abroad, with reports suggesting that Premier League club Nottingham Forest are monitoring the young centre-back.
According to SoccerBeat, the 20-year-old has emerged as a player of interest after an incredible rise in 2026, establishing himself both in Major League Soccer and on the international stage with Bafana Bafana.
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After leaving Orlando Pirates for Chicago Fire FC on a U22 Initiative deal, Mbokazi wasted little time making an impact in the MLS.
The central defender quickly became a key figure in former USMNT coach Gregg Berhalter’s defensive setup, starting all 12 regular-season matches he featured in before the international break.
With more than 1,040 minutes played, Mbokazi helped Chicago Fire FC produce important defensive displays and remain among the leading teams in the MLS Eastern Conference.
Known by the nickname “TLB” (Tractor-Loader-Backhoe) because of his physical strength and ability to drive forward with his powerful left foot, his consistency earned him recognition as a 2026 MLS All-Star.
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Mbokazi’s performances have reached another level with Bafana Bafana at the 2026 FIFA World Cup, where he has become the foundation of the national team’s defence.
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Even during a difficult opening match against co-hosts Mexico, where South Africa suffered a 2-0 defeat and finished the game with nine players, the young defender stood out for his composure and maturity.
He continued that form in the 1-1 draw against Czechia, producing a strong defensive performance before delivering his biggest moment in the 1-0 victory over South Korea.
Against Son Heung-Min and one of the tournament’s dangerous attacking units, Mbokazi produced a commanding display, recording 15 defensive contributions and helping Bafana Bafana secure a crucial clean sheet.
His performances have played a major role in South Africa reaching the World Cup knockout stages for the first time in history, with captain Ronwen Williams previously praising him as a generational talent.
With Bafana Bafana preparing to face Canada in the Round of 32, Mbokazi has positioned himself as one of the most exciting young defenders in world football, and the interest from Europe appears to be growing.