New York City FC announced that the club has loaned defender Mitja Ilenic to Polish side Raków Częstochowa through December, the MLS announced on Friday.
Mitja Ilenic will play for Rakow Częstochowa this year. (Photo courtesy of NYCFC)
NEW YORK – New York City FC announced that the club has loaned defender Mitja Ilenic to Polish side Rakow Częstochowa through December, the MLS announced on Friday.
Since joining New York City FC in 2023, the Slovenian defender appeared in 75 matches across three seasons. Ilenic scored three goals, recorded five assists, and logged 4,326 minutes.
“We support Mitja’s desire to return to Europe and would like to thank Mitja for all of his contributions to the club,” sporting director Todd Dunivant said in a statement. “This move provides us with additional roster flexibility as we continue to build the squad ahead of the 2026 season.”
Ilenic made a significant impact during the 2024 Audi MLS Cup Playoffs. In Game 2 of the Round One best-of-3 series against FC Cincinnati, the defender recorded an assist in a 2–0 victory. Ilenic converted the decisive penalty in Game 3 following a scoreless draw, sealing a 6–5 shootout win, which propelled the club into the Eastern Conference semifinals.
“I want to thank New York City FC for the opportunity and for everything during my time with the club,” Ilenic said in a statement. “I’m grateful to my teammates, coaches, and the staff for their support, and I’ll always appreciate my time in New York. I’m looking forward to this next challenge in Europe and wish the team the best as it prepares for the 2026 season.”