World-class Robert Lewandowski could join Mbekezeli Mbokazi at Chicago Fire
According to reports, Barcelona’s Robert Lewandowski has held positive talks with MLS side Chicago Fire, who recently completed the deal to sign Mbekezeli Mbokazi from Orlando Pirates.
Image: FC Barcelona
If things go as planned for MLS side Chicago Fire, South Africa's very own Mbekezeli Mbokazi could be playing alongside one of world football’s biggest names next season.
According to reports, the Major League Soccer outfit is reported to have held positive talks with the Polish legend Robert Lewandowski, who has fired Barcelona to the top of La Liga with eight goals from 12 matches.
The BBC reports that the 37-year-old Lewandowski is open to the transfer, and his wages are not expected to be a stumbling block for the American club, which is under the tutelage of former US men’s national team head coach Gregg Berhalter.
Lewandowski’s move to Chicago Fire is sure to be music to Bafana Bafana head coach Hugo Broos’ ears. Last week, the Belgian voiced his concern that Chicago Fire were not one of the stronger clubs in MLS after Mbokazi had completed his move.
Mbokazi, who will be on duty with the South African national team at the upcoming Africa Cup of Nations, will move to the United States following the conclusion of the tournament in Morocco.
Should Lewandowski move to Chicago, it will give the 20-year-old Mbokazi the chance to play with one of the biggest names in the game, and could convince Broos to keep selecting him as the team builds up for next year’s World Cup in North America.
If the deal goes through, playing alongside a world-class talent like Lewandowski could prove invaluable for Mbokazi, even from the back. Facing top-tier attackers in training and learning from Lewandowski’s movement and understanding of the game would sharpen his defensive awareness, positioning, and decision-making.
For both Chicago Fire and Bafana Bafana, this experience could accelerate Mbokazi’s growth, helping him become a more commanding presence at the heart of defence while gaining exposure to the highest professional standards.
IOL Sport