Makhanya signs contract extension in MLS

Major League Soccer outfit Philadelphia Union have exercised the two-year option on Olwethu Makhanya’s contract and tied down the South African centre back to the club for the next two seasons.

“Olwethu had a standout year in his first full MLS season. Proving himself to be an important piece of our backline, he has demonstrated maturity, consistency, and leadership at just 21 years old,” said Philadelphia Union coach, Bradley Carnell.

“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.”

This year Makhanya made an immediate impact in MLS, earning his first appearance, start, goal, and trophy with Union, who finished the regular season top of the standings.

Mak is back!

Philadelphia Union has exercised the contract option for defender Olwethu Makhanya, securing him through 2026 and 2027.

📝 https://t.co/pJHqG6iZmk#DOOP pic.twitter.com/pJ80C3fxn6 — Philadelphia Union (@PhilaUnion) November 26, 2025

Before the arrival of Carnell as the new coach at the start of the year, Makhanya had been largely ignored and spent two seasons with the club’s reserve side.

He is now tied to the club for the 2026 and 2027 seasons, but it is likely Makhanya will be snapped up by a European side during that period if he keeps up with his form.

He left Stellenbosch as an 18-year-old to move to the USA, having started his career in Baroka’s DStv Diski Challenge team.

Philadelphia lost at the weekend in the MLS playoff quarterfinals to New York FC and begin the new season in February.