DEFENDER, MICHAEL CHILAKA, SET TO RETURN FOR 2025
Israeli Defender Back for His Second Season with the Mingos
MADISON, WI: Forward Madison FC is excited to announce the return of defender, Michael Chilaka, to the squad for the 2025 Season, pending league and federation approval. After a standout year in his first season with the Mingos in 2024, Chilaka is poised to build off of that successful campaign and bolster the Forward backline in 2025.
Chilaka played a pivotal role in Forward Madison’s defense in 2024, starting in 15 of his 19 appearances. With 43 clearances and six blocks, Chilaka made his presence felt in the backline. His consistent presence in the lineup fostered one of the strongest defenses in the league and contributed to a league-high, 11 clean sheets.
Chilaka proved himself to be a key figure on both ends of the pitch with a passing accuracy of 89.9%, accentuating his ability to move the ball efficiently and build out from the back. He also contributed one goal to the team tally this season.
“I’m so happy to be back in Madison for another year,” said Chilaka. “I’m hungrier than ever and can’t wait to make the fans happy this season! All glory to God and let’s go, Mingos!”
Michael’s early professional career began in Israel where he played for Maccabi Kabilio Jaffa of Liga Alef, Israel’s third division, in 2018. That same year, Chilaka was sold to Maccabi Tel Aviv in Israel’s first division where he made 30 appearances for their U-19 team. During his time at MTA, he was loaned to both Beitar Tel Aviv Bat Yam and Hapoel Umm al-Fahm F.C. in Israel’s second tier of the sport. When his contract with MTA expired in 2023, Chilaka took his career international, signing with San Diego Loyal in the USL Championship. After one season with the Loyal, Chilaka was signed by Forward Madison FC.
About Forward Madison FC: Forward Madison FC is a charter member of USL League One, launched in the Spring of 2019. The Flamingos were a USL League One playoff team in 2019, 2023, 2024, and have made an international name for themselves with a fun-loving, flamboyant brand. More information and registration for the team’s weekly newsletter is available at www.forwardmadisonfc.com. Follow the team on Facebook, Instagram and Twitter.
