Chicago Fire Boss: The PSL Has Genuine Quality

Chicago Fire boss Gregg Berhalter has predicted more South African players will move to MLS. (Photo: Gallo)

Chicago Fire boss Gregg Berhalter — who manages duo Mbekezeli Mbokazi and Puso Dithejane — acknowledged the quality of players in the PSL and predicted more South Africans in the MLS.

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SkillCorner Study Reveals MLS TrenDay d

A study conducted by global leaders in AI-driven sports data SkillCorner attempted to reveal why there has been a recent increase in South African players making the switch to Major League Soccer.

This also comes amid Lyle Foster’s move

This also comes amid Lyle Foster’s move to Houston Dynamo on a season-long loan with an option to make the move permanent, joining Mbokazi, Dithejane, Bongokuhle Hlongwane and co. in the United States.

According to SkillCorner, the USA was the most common destination for South African players as of May 2026. “More players are leaving South Africa to play in the United States than any other nation,” the study read.

Gregg Berhalter on South African Talent Pipeline

Berhalter was consulted, and the Fire head coach and director of football suggested that the PSL could become a regular hunting ground for MLS clubs.

I think South Africa is going to become

“I think South Africa is going to become a real pipeline for MLS, and I don’t think that’s a stretch,” he said, per SkillCorner. “With Mbokazi, what stood out wasn’t just his physical attributes — it was his composure on the ball and his ability to read the game a step ahead of most centre-backs his age.

“Puso brings a different profile. He has real technical quality, is comfortable in tight spaces, and fits the way we want to play.”

Why South Africa Stands Out for MLS Clubs

The coach went on to reveal why South Africa stands out from its continental counterparts.

The PSL has genuine quality, and South Africa

“The PSL has genuine quality, and South Africa stands out across Sub-Saharan Africa because of the availability of player data.

“That gives clubs like ours much greater confidence in evaluating players before they ever step foot in Chicago. As more MLS clubs become comfortable with that pathway, I expect you’ll continue to see more South African players making the move.”

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