Doctor Khumalo weighs in on Mbekezeli Mbokazi’s MLS move

Former Bafana Bafana midfielder Doctor Khumalo believes Mbekezeli Mbokazi’s move to Major League Soccer represents a smart step in his development, insisting the league’s competitiveness and exposure to elite players will fast-track the young defender’s growth.

The former Orlando Pirates defender’s rise has been rapid; in less than a full calendar year since making his senior debut from the reserves, Mbokazi has captained Pirates, represented Bafana Bafana in crucial World Cup qualifiers, and now secured a move to MLS side Chicago Fire.

The 20-year-old is expected to play a key role for Hugo Broos and Bafana at the upcoming Africa Cup of Nations in Morocco before turning his attention fully to life in the United States.

Despite his obvious potential, the youngster’s move to the MLS has drawn mixed reactions, with some—including Broos—questioning whether he should have targeted a top European league instead. 

Khumalo, however, believes the MLS offers the ideal platform for the next phase of Mbokazi’s development, having experienced the league himself during his playing career.

“When I played in the MLS, it was in 1996, and I think that is when it started,” Khumalo said.

“Myself and Shaun Bartlett were the two players that came over from South Africa. The competitiveness of the league was not that much stronger than it is now, because of the names that are there now.

“I strongly believe that he has gone to a team that will properly challenge him and help him grow as a player, because you can imagine playing against (Lionel) Messi and other big names that are there.”

Khumalo added that the demanding nature of the competition would be key to the defender’s growth and could open doors to bigger opportunities in the future.

“A lot of people don’t respect the MLS, but I can tell you it is a competitive league, and for him to be going to Chicago is a blessing in disguise for him to start there. In years to come, he can then venture into Europe.” Khumalo added.

Mbokazi has recently found himself under scrutiny following his late arrival at Bafana Bafana camp ahead of AFCON preparations. While the issue has since cooled, the situation escalated beyond the player, with Broos also attracting attention for his strong public response to the matter.

Khumalo, one of South Africa’s most experienced football figures, used the moment to offer broader advice to young players, stressing that discipline remains non-negotiable at the highest level. Mbokazi will hope the incident has not harmed his chances of making the AFCON playing squad, particularly given Broos’ firm stance on discipline.

“I wouldn’t just base it on Mbokazi, but on any player that wants to venture into being an elite player. To be a champion comes with pain, and there are certain things you need to outgrow and some things you need to be disciplined about.

“You have to work 100% to become that elite player. You need to be focused, and this is a message not only to Mbokazi but to the rest of the young players.”he concluded.