Makhanya Seals Dream European Move To Rangers
Scottish giants Rangers have announced the signing of South African defender Olwethu Makhanya from Major League Soccer side Philadelphia Union.
Makhanya, who was part of the Bafana Bafana squad that reached the Round of 32 at the 2026 FIFA World Cup, has signed a four-year contract with the Scottish Premiership club, with the option of a further year, subject to international clearance.
The KwaZulu-Natal-born centre-back made 49 appearances in all competitions for Philadelphia Union after joining the American club from Stellenbosch FC in 2023.
In a statement confirming the transfer, Rangers said:
“Rangers can today confirm the signing of defender Olwethu Makhanya from Philadelphia Union on an initial four-year deal, with the option of an additional year, subject to international clearance.
“The 22-year-old joins the club ahead of the start of the Scottish Premiership campaign, becoming the club’s eighth signing of the summer transfer window.
“Born in South Africa, Makhanya started his career at Stellenbosch before moving to the USA in 2023.
“He initially featured for Philadelphia Union II before making his senior debut in February 2025 against Orlando City. After impressing in Major League Soccer, Makhanya established himself as a first-team regular, making 49 appearances in all competitions.
“The centre-back also made his South Africa debut in May 2026 in a friendly against Nicaragua and was subsequently called up to the squad for the FIFA World Cup.”
Speaking after completing his move, Makhanya expressed his delight at joining one of Scotland’s biggest clubs.
“I can’t even explain how I’m feeling right now. It is honestly a huge honour and a massive blessing for me to join such a big club with so much history. I can’t wait to get started,” he said.
“For me, it has always been a dream to play football in Europe ever since I was a kid, so to be here is a dream come true.”
Rangers manager Derek McInnes believes Makhanya has the qualities to thrive at Ibrox.
“We’re really pleased to bring Olwethu to the club,” McInnes said.
“He’s a player we have watched closely, and we feel he has all the attributes to make a real impact here while also continuing to develop his game.
“For someone so young, he’s already gained experience in different environments. He is a strong, physical and confident defender, and I look forward to seeing him settle into the squad and show what he is capable of as a Rangers player.”
Makhanya becomes the latest South African to represent Rangers, following in the footsteps of Bongani Zungu, who helped the club win the 2020/21 Scottish Premiership title under Steven Gerrard.
