HERRIMAN, Utah (Wednesday, April 27, 2022) – Real Monarchs has signed Zambian defender Golden Mafwenta to an MLS NEXT Pro professional contract, pending league approval.
“Golden is a proven defender who has already experienced a high playing level with both club and country at a young level. We believe he will bring stability and leadership to the backline and we are excited to see how he continues to grow and develop under the tutelage of the RSL organization,” Real Salt Lake Assistant General Manager Tony Beltran said.
Mafwenta, 21, comes to Utah as the first-ever player from Zambia in the RSL organization, signing from MFK Vyskov in the Czech Republic. He previously played in his home country with Buildcon FC of the Zambia Super League. Playing mainly as an outside back, Mafwenta played in 13 matches, totaling more than 900 minutes for the Zambian club.
Mafwenta has also made four appearances for the Zambian Men’s National Team, including three friendlies that includes 2-0 victory over Tanzania in group play of the African Nations Championship. Additionally, Mafwenta has spent time with the U-20 Zambian National Team.
Real Monarchs are currently competing in the newly formed MLS NEXT Pro, with its next home match set for this Friday, April 29 at 7:00 p.m. MT at Zions Bank Stadium in Herriman, Utah against St. Louis City 2. This move comes after seven seasons in the USL Championship, during which the team won the 2019 USL Championship Cup, the 2017 USL Regular Season Shield and the Western Conference Title in both 2017 and 2019, while also qualifying for the postseason in 2018.
Tickets for Real Monarchs can be purchased by calling 844.Real.Tix or visiting www.RSL.com/tickets.
TRANSACTION: Real Monarchs sign defender Golden Mfwenta to an MLS NEXT Pro professional contract.
Player Information
Name: Golden Mafwenta
Position: Defender
Height: 5’10"
Date of Birth: January 15, 2001
Age: 21
Birthplace: Lusaka, Zambia
Hometown: Lusaka, Zambia
Citizenship: Zambia
Last Club: Buildcon FC
How Acquired: Signed on April 27, 2022
Real Monarchs current roster as of 04/27/22
Goalkeepers: None
Defenders: Bobby Pierre, Pierre Reedy, Golden Mafwenta
Midfielders: Jack Imperato, Leo Torres, Pedro Fonseca, Tyrone Mondi, Christian Nydegger
Forwards: Terron Williams, Yekeson Subah
