South Africa youth international Olwethu Makhanya could be in line for a breakout season in Major League Soccer (MLS) with Philadelphia Union.
The 20-year-old joined Union from Stellenbosch FC in a reported R8-million transfer but struggled to break into the senior set-up since.
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He’s racked up 31 appearances for the reserve team, scoring two goals and impressed the club, who decided to retain him for the 2025 season.
The arrival of head coach, Bradley Carnell, has further enhanced his chances, and he’s featured prominently in their pre-season campaign as they played Slavia Parague, AGF Aarhus and CF Montreal ahead of their season opener against Orlando City on February 23.
“It’s nice to give the guys a boost of confidence towards the end of [pre-season] camp after four, five weeks, it’s been journey, building a solid foundation of our core principals and what we’re trying to do within the philosophy,” Carnell said after their 1-0 win over Montreal.
“I think if the boys feel the progression, it’s important with a new coaching staff, for them to feel it, it’s been pretty fun to watch – we’re right where we are, it’s now about getting sharpness [after pre-season].”
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Makhanya earned comparisons to Lucas Radebe during his time with Stellies, where he earned nominations for the Young Player of the Year award and won the Nedbank Cup Most Promising Player honour before his lucrative switch the USA.
