Rangers defender Olwethu Makhanya has firmly established himself under Derek McInnes following his £3 million summer arrival from Philadelphia Union.
The 22-year-old has anchored the Ibrox backline across five of their opening six league fixtures, accumulating eight starts in all competitions ahead of a looming League Cup Hampden showdown against Aberdeen.
His rapid integration follows a four-year contract agreement announced by Rangers in late July.
Making An Immediate Impact
“We’re really pleased to bring Olwethu to the club. He’s a player we have watched closely, and we feel he has all the attributes to make a real impact here, while also continuing to develop his game,” McInnes confirmed via the official club website.
Before his departure, Philadelphia Union sporting director Jon Scheer said: “We greatly appreciate Olwethu’s contributions in his three years with the Union,” noting his rapid development in America.
Despite data models ranking Major League Soccer above the Scottish top flight, the defender maintains his new environment is the most demanding he has faced.
The South Africa international told SABC Sport, as relayed by Ibrox News, that he ranks the Premiership ahead of both MLS and his domestic league.
The Rangers summer signing views his switch as a catalyst for a national team return, having secured just one senior cap.
“I saw the coaching change as an opportunity for a fresh start in the national team because I always felt like I was overlooked by the previous coach,” Makhanya added.
His robust form in Glasgow continues to draw praise, with Richard Gough sending a direct message to commend his transition.
Rangers travel to face Celtic in the Premiership on Sunday.
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