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Minnesota United extends contract of Bongokuhle Hlongwane

Midfielder has a new three-year deal that takes him through the 2027 season

Minnesota United FC forward Bongokuhle Hlongwane dribbles the ball during the first half of an April 15, 2023, game against Orlando City SC in St. Paul.
Minnesota United FC forward Bongokuhle Hlongwane dribbles the ball during the first half of an April 15, 2023, game against Orlando City SC in St. Paul.
Brace Hemmelgarn / USA Today Sports

Minnesota United has signed midfielder Bongokuhle Hlongwane to a new, three-year contract through 2027, with a club option for 2028, the Loons announced Saturday.

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“I’m grateful to be a part of this amazing team again; it means a lot to me and my family,” Hlongwane said in a statement. “I can’t wait to continue playing in front our fans, and I hope for more joy and success.”

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The longtime Loons manager looks back fondly. “We competed really, really well.”
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Hlongwane joined United in January 2021 and has scored 30 goals over 108 game appearances, including Lamar Hunt U.S. Open Cup and Leagues Cup games. He has played more than 6,300 minutes combined in 95 MLS games and is second in MNUFC’s MLS history for goals scored, behind only Robin Lod’s 32.

Hlongwane no longer occupies a U22 Initiative slot on MNUFC’s roster.

“Since his arrival, Bongi has continued to improve his game and has had a positive impact to the team when it came to his success on and off of the field,” Chief Soccer Officer Khaled El-Ahmad said in a statement. “His new contract is a testament to Minnesota and MLS, and our club looks forward to seeing his continued growth and work ethic contribute to the success of our upcoming year and beyond.”

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Hlongwane made his national team debut in 2019 and has scored four goals in 18 appearances. He scored his first international goal in 2021 against Uganda, and scored the game-winning goal against Ghana in a World Cup Qualifier.

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