Gavin Lane: Former Orlando Pirates Star Reacts to Mbekezeli Mbokazi MLS Transfer Talk
- Former Orlando Pirates star Gavin “Stability Unit” Lane has reacted to Mbekezeli Mbokazi’s rumoured move to the United States of America
- The South African international is linked with a move to Major League Soccer side Chicago Fire FC
- The legend's comments about the Bafana Bafana star sparked reactions from fans on social media
Gavin “Stability Unit” Lane, the former Orlando Pirates and Bafana Bafana defender, has shared his thoughts on Mbekezeli Mbokazi’s rumoured move to Major League Soccer side, Chicago Fire FC.
Source: Getty Images
Reports indicate that Mbokazi arrived in the United States on Friday with his agent to discuss a potential transfer worth around R52 million. The 20-year-old has experienced a meteoric rise since making his professional debut for Orlando Pirates in March 2025.
Just three months after his first senior appearance, Mbokazi earned a call-up to Bafana Bafana and quickly became a vital figure in Hugo Broos' squad. His importance was underscored when he was held back from participating in the FIFA Under-20 World Cup to remain available for South Africa's key 2026 World Cup qualifiers.
This season, Mbokazi was named Pirates' vice-captain but has often worn the armband more than club captain Nkosinathi Sibisi. With his growing reputation, the Chicago Fire are reportedly showing a strong interest in securing the centre-back.
Despite the buzz surrounding MLS, Broos has previously stated that Mbokazi is ready for a move to Europe, though it remains unclear whether his move to MLS aligns with Broos' advice. The former Cameroon coach has also expressed reservations about the MLS, citing the extensive travel demands it places on players representing their national teams.
Lane's thoughts on Mbokazi's proposed MLS move
Lane described the potential move as a “once-in-a-lifetime opportunity,” noting that Major League Soccer is strong, well-sponsored, and offers good football, and he encouraged Mbokazi to give it a try. He added that, in the bigger picture, a move to the MLS could serve as a stepping stone to the English Premier League, citing players like Lucas Radebe, Mark Fish, Shaun Bartlett, and Lyle Foster, who is currently performing well at Burnley FC.
Source: Getty Images
Lane emphasised that while Mbokazi has already been doing well, gaining experience abroad is important, especially considering his age. He also expressed confidence that a move to the MLS would not harm Mbokazi’s chances of representing Bafana Bafana at the World Cup, highlighting the player’s youth and potential.
Phumelele Ngomane shared:
"So now MLS is no longer a mvela league😳😳 but when Blom heading there people were laughing saying "MLS is like Mvela league"
Berg Flemming Khathaza said:
"He must kiss his Bafana Bafana career goodbye, Hugo Broos won't approve this move, ask Mailula
Hendrick Maro wrote:
"A major improvement. People don't even know that MLS is higher than both PSL and the Saudi Pro League in FIFA rankings. They don't know that MLS is full of skilled South American players than here in South Africa, where South Americans are seen as superior to our own, yet people say MLS is a downgrade 🤔🤔🤔??? How?"
Ledwaba La Swindjana added:
"Hendrick Maro MLS will not upscale them. Who do you know who played in MLS and now plays for a big team? Players go to the MLS to retire. This is why Saudi Pro made it a point not just to sign old players but also top young talents."
Ouaddou explains Mbatha, Makgopa absence
Briefly News earlier reported that Abdeslam Ouaddou explained why Thalente Mbatha and Makgopa didn't make his matchay squad for the game against Lupopo in the CAF Champions League.
The Moroccan coach started the match without a recognised striker, and the tactics paid off as the Bucs pulled a comeback, but lost the round on penalty shootouts.
Source: Briefly News
