Mbekezeli Mbokazi from Orlando Pirates to MLS: Path to glory or pitfall?

The imminent departure of Mbekezeli Mbokazi to MLS side Chicago Fire from Orlando Pirates has sparked wide-ranging debate, with many unsure whether it will mark the rise or downfall of his promising career.

In recent years, a handful of Bafana Bafana internationals have left the PSL in search of greener pastures in the MLS, and it’s concerning that most of them have either lost their national team spots or eventually moved on from their American teams.

Below, we reflect on those players’ careers — not to suggest their fortunes will determine Mbokazi’s path, but rather to consider the challenges he might face, while hoping he prospers abroad and continues to fly the South African flag, possibly even in better leagues across the world in future.

Bongokuhle Hlongwane — Minnesota United

When Hlongwane left Maritzburg United — now known as Durban City — four years ago, he adapted seamlessly in the MLS. As a result, he featured regularly for Bafana, leading Hugo Broos’ attacking contingent.

But due to injuries and the league’s different format — including scheduling — he fell down the pecking order, with Broos selecting players who were playing regularly and remained active.

So, while Hlongwane might continue to be one of Minnesota’s talismans, he is no longer part of Broos’ plans. He was recently overlooked for the final AFCON squad despite making the preliminary selection.

Njabulo Blom — St. Louis City SC

Having shown his versatility — playing both as a defender and midfielder — during his first-team years at Kaizer Chiefs, Blom was tipped to soar at St. Louis City under the watchful eye of compatriot Bradley Carnell.

And he did start on a high. He also featured prominently under Broos. But the relationship between Broos and Blom soured when his club refused to release him for national duty during a FIFA window, allegedly citing a fake injury.

Blom didn’t make things easier for himself either. He lost his place at St. Louis City and was loaned back to Chiefs for a season. Due to reported issues of ill-discipline, his stint with Amakhosi was a failure. He is now trying to revive his career at Vietnamese side Thép Xanh Nam Định.

Cassius Mailula — Toronto FC

Mailula emerged as one of the most promising youngsters at Mamelodi Sundowns during the 2022/23 season. Naturally, he caught the eye of several suitors and eventually signed for MLS side Toronto FC.

Broos was entirely unhappy with the move, warning that it would derail Mailula’s progress as he would face stiff competition for game time in a position already occupied by established names like Lorenzo Insigne.

And voilà — Broos’ fears became reality. Mailula was demoted to the reserves before eventually being loaned to Wydad Casablanca last season, where he impressed. He is now on loan at Belgian side KV Kortrijk, where he has yet to feature.