New York City FC defender Mitja Ilenic will return to the club following the end of his loan with Polish club Rakow Czestochowa. The 21 year-old Slovenian has been with NYCFC since 2023 but spent the last season in Europe. While there he made just 5 appearances.
“The additional experience gained during his loan will be valuable,” said City Sporting Director Todd Dunivant. “In addition to the depth he provides on the backline, we look forward to having Mitja back with the club.”
In total, Ilenic has made 75 appearances for City despite being so young. Over that time 45 of those appearances have been starts while scoring three goals and assisting on five others across all competitions. This news comes as defender Strahinja Tanasijevic departs the club after two years in Major League Soccer. Ilenic’s return galvanizes the roster ahead of the final half of the 2026 season.
photo by Jordan Bank