South African defender Olwethu Makhanya has opened up on working with compatriot coach Bradley Carnell at Philadelphia Union in the USA’s MLS.
Carnell was appointed to spearhead ‘The Union’ at the beginning of the year, replacing Jim Curtin, who was sacked in November after ten years at the helm.
At Philadelphia, Carnell found his countryman, Makhanya, who has been with the club since January 2023 after signing from Betway Premiership side Stellenbosch FC.
Makhanya’s switch to Philadelphia Union in 2023 was understandably challenging initially, as he was starting a new life in the USA at 19. However, last year, he successfully adapted and gained valuable playing time in the B team.
The Durban-born centre-back travelled with the team to Europe for the pre-season. He did well enough to convince Carnell to name him in his starting eleven for the season opener against Orlando City, where ‘The Union’ won 4-2.
The former SA youth international has now played the full 90 minutes in all three opening league matches this season.
Makhanya told this website that Carnell’s arrival at Philadelphia has made a significant difference in his career. He feels the former Orlando Pirates assistant coach understands him better than previous coaches of the MLS club.
MAKHANYA SAYS CARNELL UNDERSTANDS HIM BETTER THAN PREVIOUS COACHES
“I would say the difference it [Carnell’s arrival] makes compared to all previous coaches is I kind of have a connection with him,” said Makhanya during an exclusive interview with FARPost.
“Since he’s South African, he’s also played in South Africa. I feel like he also understands the culture that I come from.
“It makes it easier to work with him because he just understands me better. I would also say that his message is quite clear; it’s almost like it’s up to me if I want to take the message or ignore it.
“So, communication-wise and the understanding is much better.
“I personally understood [when he arrived] that it’s a new coach, and it’s almost like a clean slate and a good opportunity to raise my hand. So, it has been like that.”
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