Adilson Malanda

Adilson Malanda Biography

Adilson Malanda is a French professional footballer known for his role as a defender, currently playing as a center-back for Major League Soccer club Charlotte FC, on loan from Middlesbrough in the EFL Championship. What makes Malanda stand out is his calm, leadership qualities on the pitch, and his modern defensive style emphasizing possession-based football and smart long diagonal passes. He has rapidly gained recognition for his performances in both European and American leagues since his professional debut, making him a notable young talent in football.

Childhood

Adilson Malanda was born on October 29, 2001, in Rouen, a northwestern town located approximately 75 miles from Paris, France. He is of Congolese descent. He left his family home at the age of 13 to pursue a football career. Growing up in Rouen, he embarked early on a path dedicated to the sport, indicating a strong drive and ambition from a young age to make football his profession.

Education

Specific details about Adilson Malanda's formal education and academic training are not widely disclosed, which is common for many professional footballers who often focus on intensive sports training from early ages. Malanda's education in football came mainly through academy systems and professional club training programs, where he developed his skills and tactical understanding that shaped him into a professional player.

Career

Malanda began his professional career with Nîmes Olympique in France, where he came up through the academy ranks. After gaining valuable experience, he moved to Rodez AF, helping the club to compete in Ligue 2. His strong performances attracted international attention, leading to a signing with Charlotte FC in Major League Soccer in August 2022. At Charlotte FC, Malanda quickly became a starter and a key leader on the team, noted for his defensive reliability and leadership. In August 2025, he signed for Middlesbrough in the EFL Championship but was loaned back to Charlotte FC to finish the MLS season. Over his career so far, Malanda has been praised for combining physical strength with a tactical, possession-oriented approach to defense.

Family Life

Information about Adilson Malanda's family life, including relationships or children, is not publicly detailed. Known mainly for his professional dedication, Malanda maintains a relatively private personal life, focusing public attention on his football career rather than his private affairs.

Achievements

Adilson Malanda has achieved significant milestones for a young player, including establishing himself as a central figure in Charlotte FC’s defense and earning an MLS contract extension through 2026, with an option for 2027. In 2024, he recorded career highs in appearances and minutes played and contributed to one of the best defensive records in MLS, with the second-highest number of clean sheets that season. He also scored his first MLS goal and provided assists, marking his impact beyond just defensive duties. His strategic defensive skills and leadership qualities have made him one of the league's most promising defenders.

Controversies

As of the current date, there are no notable controversies surrounding Adilson Malanda. His career and public presence have been marked by professionalism and a focus on football, without involvement in scandals or negative public incidents.

Adilson Malanda Summary

Adilson Malanda is a young and talented French footballer of Congolese descent, known for his role as a center-back. Born in Rouen, France, he left home early to pursue a professional football career. Rising through French clubs Nîmes and Rodez, Malanda made a successful transition to Major League Soccer with Charlotte FC, where he became a key player and leader. Recently signed by Middlesbrough, his career trajectory suggests a bright future. While he keeps his personal life private, his achievements on the field and his mature style of play have earned him acclaim in the sport. Malanda remains a promising figure in contemporary football, admired for his calm leadership and proficiency in defense.