New York City FC Loans Defender Mitja Ilenic to Polish Club Rakow Czestochowa: A Look Back at His Time with NYCFC and Future Plans
New York City FC has decided to loan defender Mitja Ilenic to Polish club Rakow Czestochowa until December 2026. Ilenic, a 21-year-old Slovenian player, had a successful stint with NYCFC, scoring three goals and providing two assists in 64 MLS matches between 2023 and 2025. The club's sporting director, Todd Dunivant, expressed gratitude for Ilenic's contributions and stated that the move would offer the team more flexibility in shaping the roster for the upcoming 2026 season. Ilenic's memorable moment came during the 2024 MLS Cup Playoffs when he scored the decisive penalty in a shootout victory over FC Cincinnati, propelling NYCFC to the Eastern Conference semifinals.
Mitja Ilenic expressed his appreciation for the opportunity to play for New York City FC and thanked his teammates, coaches, and staff for their support during his time with the club. He acknowledged the valuable experience gained in New York and is now looking forward to the new challenge in Europe. As he embarks on this next chapter in his career, Ilenic wished the team well as they prepare for the upcoming 2026 season.
The loan agreement with Rakow Czestochowa signifies a strategic move by New York City FC to allow Ilenic to pursue his ambitions in Europe while also creating room for roster adjustments ahead of the new season. Ilenic's impact on the team, both on and off the field, has been recognized, and his departure marks the beginning of a new phase for the young defender. As NYCFC continues to shape its squad for the 2026 season, the club remains focused on building a competitive team that can achieve success in the MLS.