Olwethu Makhanya

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Olwethu Makhanya
Olwethu Makhanya Philadelphia Chicago 10.26.25-037 (cropped).jpg
Makhanya with the Philadelphia Union in 2025
Personal information
Full name Olwethu Mpilwenhle Makhanya
Date of birth (2004-04-30) 30 April 2004 (age 21)
Place of birth Durban, South Africa
Position Defender
Team information
Current team
 Philadelphia Union
Number 29
Senior career*
YearsTeamApps(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]

Contents

Career

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

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

Makhanya has regarded England international John Stones as one of his soccer idols. [8]

Honours

Philadelphia Union

References

  1. ↑ "Makhanya: The Anticipation Was Killing Me". snl24.com.
  2. ↑ "Stellies proud to release Makhanya". sowetanlive.co.za.
  3. ↑ "What could Olwethu Makhanya offer at Downs?". snl24.com.
  4. ↑ "Makhanya: How Philadelphia Scouted Me In SA". Soccer Laduma.
  5. ↑ "Olwethu Makhanya's special MLS status explained". sabcsport.com.
  6. ↑ "Olwethu Makhanya - Times Live article".
  7. ↑ "Philadelphia Union director opens up on signing 'explosive' Makhanya". Kick Off.
  8. ↑ "Olwethu Makhanya living the American dream in MLS". 947.co.za.
  9. ↑ "Philadelphia Union win 2025 Supporters' Shield". MLS Soccer. 4 October 2025. Retrieved 4 October 2025.
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