.jpg) Makhanya with the Philadelphia Union in 2025 | |||
| Personal information | |||
|---|---|---|---|
| Full name | Olwethu Mpilwenhle Makhanya | ||
| Date of birth | 30 April 2004 | ||
| Place of birth | Durban, South Africa | ||
| Position | Defender | ||
| Team information | |||
Current team | Philadelphia Union | ||
| Number | 29 | ||
| Senior career* | |||
| Years | Team | Apps | (Gls) |
| 2022–2023 | Stellenbosch | 20 | (1) |
| 2023– | Philadelphia Union | 25 | (1) |
| 2023–2024 | → Philadelphia Union II | 31 | (2) |
| * Club domestic league appearances and goals | |||
Olwethu Mpilwenhle Makhanya (born 30 April 2004) is a South African professional soccer player who plays as a defender for the Philadelphia Union of Major League Soccer.[1]
Career
[edit]Makhanya started his career with South African side Stellenbosch, where he was regarded to have performed well for the club.[2] He was nominated for South Africa Young Footballer of the Year.[3] He won the 2022-23 Nedbank Cup Most Promising Player award.[4] In 2023, he signed for American side Philadelphia Union, becoming the club's first under-22 initiative signing.[5]
Style of play
[edit]Makhanya is known for his bravery.[6] He can operate as a central defender in a back four or a back three.[7]
Personal life
[edit]Makhanya has regarded England international John Stones as one of his soccer idols.[8]
Honours
[edit]Philadelphia Union
References
[edit]- ^ "Makhanya: The Anticipation Was Killing Me". snl24.com.
- ^ "Stellies proud to release Makhanya". sowetanlive.co.za.
- ^ "What could Olwethu Makhanya offer at Downs?". snl24.com.
- ^ "Makhanya: How Philadelphia Scouted Me In SA". Soccer Laduma.
- ^ "Olwethu Makhanya's special MLS status explained". sabcsport.com.
- ^ "Olwethu Makhanya - Times Live article".
- ^ "Philadelphia Union director opens up on signing 'explosive' Makhanya". Kick Off.
- ^ "Olwethu Makhanya living the American dream in MLS". 947.co.za.
- ^ "Philadelphia Union win 2025 Supporters' Shield". MLS Soccer. 4 October 2025. Retrieved 4 October 2025.
External links
[edit]- Olwethu Makhanya at Soccerway.com
- Olwethu Makhanya at FBref.com
- Olwethu Makhanya at kicker (in German)
- Olwethu Makhanya at Major League Soccer
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