Forward Madison FC announced the return of defender Michael Chilaka to the squad for the 2025 Season, pending league and federation approval.
Chilaka appeared in 19 matches in 2024, starting 15, as part of a backline that recorded 14 clean sheets in all competitions. He also posted an 89.9% passing accuracy and scored a goal.
“I’m so happy to be back in Madison for another year,” Chilaka said in a statement. “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. 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.
Forward Madison’s 2025 season gets underway March 15 at FC Naples in Florida. The home opener is set for April 19 as the Mingos host Texoma FC.
