Rangers defender Olwethu Makhanya earns surprise praise from Nigeria star

Olwethu Makhanya’s impressive start at Rangers has earned the South Africa defender a strong endorsement from Super Eagles defender Emmanuel Fernandez.

The 22-year-old joined the Scottish club from Major League Soccer side Philadelphia Union in a reported $4.5 million (R68m) deal, having established himself as one of the leading performers in the United States of America.

Makhanya had been nominated for the MLS Defender of the Season award after helping Philadelphia Union win the MLS Supporters Shield, awarded to the team with the most points in the league. The campaign came under then head coach and compatriot Bradley Carnell.

His performances also led to a place in the Bafana squad for the 2026 FIFA World Cup. However, Makhanya was behind Mbekezeli Mbokazi and Ime Okon in the pecking order during the tournament, in which South Africa reached the last-32 of the global event.

Since moving to Rangers, though, his profile has risen considerably. Supporters, media and team-mates have all praised his ability and potential, while his early performances have prompted suggestions that he could attract interest from an even bigger club by January.

Fernandez, who has been struck by Makhanya’s quality, said he had not expected the former Stellenbosch defender to adapt so effectively.

“He’s a very good player, South African boy. To be fair, I was surprised from when he came in. I didn’t expect him to be as good as he is, but he’s a top player,” he told Footy-Africa.

The Nigeria defender also believes Makhanya has plenty of room to improve as he continues adjusting to Scottish football.

“There’s even still more to come from him, there’s still more understanding to come from him, because the game’s a bit different in Scotland, but he’s very good.”

Before his move to Philadelphia Union, Makhanya left the Premier Soccer League for MLS as a teenager. His development has since taken him into the Bafana set-up and now to Rangers, where he has made an immediate impression.

Makhanya was also an important part of Pitso Mosimane’s defensive plans as the side began their 2027 Africa Cup of Nations qualifying campaign with consecutive victories against Guinea and Eritrea.