Mbekezeli Mbokazi's MLS move move opens doors for SA talent, says Olwethu Makhanya

Philadelphia Union defender Olwethu Makhanya believes Mbekezeli Mbokazi’s recent move to Major League Soccer (MLS) could play a significant role in elevating the profile of South African players competing in the league.

The MLS has, at times, been dismissed as a destination for players nearing the twilight of their careers, but with players such as Makhanya at the other end of their careers, it remains one of the most demanding and well-structured leagues in world football.

Its increasing intensity and quality have never been in question, with more young and ambitious players now viewing it as a platform to develop and showcase their abilities, using it as a stepping stone to other major leagues.

South Africa’s connection with the MLS is not new. Football icons such as Doctor Khumalo and Jomo Sono previously made their mark in the United States, laying a foundation for future generations. Their presence helped introduce South African talent to the league, a pathway now being further explored by players like Mbokazi and Makhanya.

At 21, Makhanya is widely regarded as one of the country’s most promising defensive prospects. The former Stellenbosch FC centre-back recently faced disappointment after missing out on the final national team squad set to take on Panama in two international friendlies as part of World Cup preparations.

Despite this setback, he remains hopeful about his international future and believes that growing recognition of MLS-based players could work in their favour. Mbokazi’s Chicago Fire got the better of Makhanya’s Philadelphia Union, winning 2–1 when the two defenders met this past weekend for their respective sides.

“Mbokazi coming this side has already cemented his place in the national team, so for him coming this side, that kind of forces the national team coaches to have a look at the MLS, because before he came here, the league was not given enough attention,” Makhanya said on Soccerbeat.

“His move has made the coaches look at the league and realise what the level is like, and that is why they are considering other MLS players to be part of the national team.”

Makhanya is currently playing under former Bafana Bafana international Bradley Carnell, whose influence he says has been instrumental in his development and adaptation to life in the United States.

“Working with someone like coach Bradley, he is very experienced and there are a lot of things to learn from him.

“Given the fact that he is also a South African, I feel like working with him makes my job easier because he understands who I am and where I come from. 

“There is a lot to learn, and I have grown a lot as a player tactically and mentally under him because he is a coach that demands high standards at all times.”

While the MLS has faced criticism in the past, including from Bafana head coach Hugo Broos, Makhanya believes the league offers a different and, in some respects, more demanding environment than the PSL. He points to the physicality and tactical discipline required to compete consistently.

“Compared to back home, the league is more physical, and the intensity is higher. The pace at which the game is played is high, and there are a lot of tactical and quality players.

“When it comes to talent, we are on the same level as them, but the players this side work harder. The work rate is very high, and players approach the game more tactically. They fight for everything this side — even the small things — and that makes it more challenging.”

* Obakeng Meletse is Independent Media’s multi-sport writer. For fresh video content, follow our YouTube channel The Clutch