Mbekezeli Mbokazi’s MLS move marks a crucial step in his rising career

It might not be one of the best leagues in the world, but Mbekezeli Mbokazi’s reported move to the Chicago Fire in MLS still augurs well for his career.

Mbokazi has carved out a reputation as one of the most rock-solid defenders in the PSL top flight. This is due to his maturity, composure on and off the ball, timeless tackles, and accurate passing.

His exploits haven’t gone unnoticed. He has even caught the eye of Bafana Bafana coach Hugo Broos, who believes Mbokazi is one of the best defenders he has ever coached — and simply too good for the local league.

Broos has stressed that it will be important for the teenager to move overseas next season, as that will elevate his career to greater heights.

Christmas seems to have come early for both Broos and Mbokazi, as the Orlando Pirates defender was reportedly spotted in the US over the past weekend to put pen to paper at the Chicago Fire for a move valued at a reported R51 million.

The MLS might boast some big names — including eight-time Ballon d’Or winner Lionel Messi — but it is still widely perceived as a retirement league where players go once they are past their peak.

Be that as it may, an overseas move will still be invaluable for Mbokazi. Not only will he grow in his game, but mentally as well.

Mbokazi won’t have to look far for inspiration either. His former teammate, Mohau Nkota, has grown in leaps and bounds since his move to Saudi Arabia’s Al-Ettifaq — a transfer that was also not supported by everyone, as many believed it was solely financially motivated.

But Nkota has made that move count. His growth has shown in his performances, and that’s why he is one of the players expected to make Broos’ final squad for the upcoming AFCON finals in Morocco next month.

What has made Nkota’s move successful is the fact that he stepped out of his comfort zone, yet remained true to himself by allowing people to get used to his personality.

Mbokazi should adopt the same strategy in the US: continue finding himself on and off the field, rather than getting lost in the euphoria and limelight of North America.

By his standards, Mbokazi has already shown he is heading in the right direction. Being the captain of Pirates requires a player to be at his best on and off the field, and despite being spotted out enjoying downtime with friends, Mbokazi hasn’t let that interfere with his game.

You see, while Bafana have largely depended on local-based players, they do need international experience.

So with Mbokazi reportedly set to leave for MLS in the next few weeks — if all goes well — the international exposure will also come in handy for Bafana, who are heading to AFCON next month and will be in North America for the World Cup in winter.

It is, therefore, crucial for everyone associated with Mbokazi to support him as he navigates uncharted waters, while also making him understand that this should only be the beginning for him, as he has the potential to compete in some of the best leagues around the globe.