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Olwethu Makhanya

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Olwethu Makhanya
Personal information
Full name Olwethu Mpilwenhle Makhanya
Date of birth (2004-04-30) 30 April 2004 (age 20)
Place of birth Durban, South Africa
Position(s) Defender
Team information
Current team
Philadelphia Union
Number 29
Senior career*
Years Team Apps (Gls)
2022–2023 Stellenbosch 20 (1)
2023– Philadelphia Union 0 (0)
2023– Philadelphia Union II 1 (0)
*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

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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 2023 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

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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

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

References

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  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.