Mbokazi has also been withdrawn from the MLS All-Star squad that will face the LIGA MX All Stars on Wednesday. Chicago Fire confirmed he is likely to return around mid-September.
MBEKEZELI MBOKAZI SUFFERS MAJOR SETBACK
Speaking about the injury, Chicago Fire head coach Gregg Berhalter revealed that the 20-year-old South African centre-back suffered a serious muscle tear during training.
According to Berhalter, the former Orlando Pirates defender took a shot before scuffing the ground. The awkward movement severely damaged his thigh muscle.
The injury has forced Chicago Fire to place Mbokazi on the six-game injured list. He is expected to spend several weeks on the sidelines before returning around mid-September.
The setback comes just weeks after Mbokazi received widespread praise for his outstanding debut MLS campaign. His impressive performances also earned him a place in the prestigious MLS All-Star team.
CHICAGO FIRE STAR HAD ENJOYED OUTSTANDING DEBUT SEASON
Since joining Chicago Fire from Orlando Pirates in January 2026 on a U22 Initiative contract running until 2029, Mbokazi has established himself as one of the club’s most important players.
The left-footed defender from Hluhlulwe, KZN walked straight into Berhalter’s starting line-up for the opening match of the 2026 MLS season on 22 February. He never looked back. Before his injury, he had started all 12 of his league appearances, accumulating nearly 1,050 minutes while helping Chicago Fire keep five clean sheets.
His commanding displays saw him register 101 clearances, 14 blocked shots and an impressive 87% passing accuracy, underlining his growing reputation as one of the league’s standout young defenders.
The impressive form, combined with his breakthrough performances for South Africa at the 2026 FIFA World Cup, saw Mbokazi’s market value rise to €8 million.
While the injury temporarily halts his remarkable rise, Chicago Fire will be hoping their defensive leader returns in mid-September to continue what has been a hugely impressive first season in Major League Soccer.
WHERE DO YOU SEE MBEKEZELI MBOKAZI IN THE NEW FUTURE?
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