Philadelphia Secures Future With Young SA Defender 

The MLS side Philadelphia Union has announced that it has extended the contract of South African defender Olwethu Makhanya, securing his services until December 2027 with a new two-year deal.

The 21-year-old’s impressive performances in his first full season with the first team have clearly impressed the Union’s coaching staff.

Makhanya joined Philadelphia in 2023 from Stellenbosch, where he made a name for himself as a talented young player.

During his time with Stellies, he became the club’s youngest-ever goal scorer in the Betway Premiership, netting a goal in a 5-2 victory over Golden Arrows in 2023.

Despite initially playing in the Union’s reserve team, Makhanya has worked his way up to become a key player in the first team.

This recently ended season saw Makhanya play a crucial role in helping the Union clinch the 2025 Supporters’ Shield. He also scored a vital goal against Montreal on 16 July and helped his team reach the Eastern Conference semifinals.

According to Philadelphia Union head coach Bradley Carnell, who is also a South African, Makhanya’s rapid development is a sign of his high ceiling.

“Olwethu had a standout year in his first full MLS season,” Carnell said.

“Proving himself to be an important piece of our backline, he has demonstrated maturity, consistency, and leadership at just 21 years old.

“His rapid development is a clear indication of how high his ceiling can be, and we believe he will continue to develop and make a significant impact going forward with the club.”

The new contract extension is a testament to Makhanya’s hard work and dedication to the game. With his future now secured at the Union, the young defender will be focusing on continuing to grow and improve as a player.