One of the first players signed to the inaugural Revolution II roster, midfielder Mayele Malango hails from Lowell, Massachusetts and has been making waves on the local soccer scene for several years. Here are some fun facts about the vivacious new midfielder and his long road to entering the professional ranks here in New England:
1. A Local Standout
Malango first earned recognition as a key member of Lowell High School’s varsity team in 2016, leading the Red Raiders to an 18-4-1 record with 24 goals and eight assists.
He took his talents to the collegiate level the following year, leading Salem State to its first MASCAC title in over a decade and earning Player of the Year honors for the league as a freshman. Malango shifted to the Division 1 level as a sophomore, playing a full season for UMass-Lowell before turning pro.
2. A Long Road
The 23-year-old has traversed a long and difficult path to arrive in Foxborough. Born in the Democratic Republic of the Congo, Malango and his family were forced to flee to Malawi during Africa’s second civil war in his native country where they spent over 10 years in a refugee camp. Through the United Nations’ Refugee program, Malango was able to move to Massachusetts at the age of 17 with his family.
3. Crank Those Tunes
Music has a played a big role throughout Malango’s life. Not only does it provide a soundtrack to his daily workouts, but it also helps him relax during the quiet moments during the day. He even has a few special tracks to help him fall asleep. Among the many artists in Malango’s rotation, Tanzanian musician Mbosso is his personal favorite.
4. Hoopin’ It Up
Aside from his first passion, soccer, Malango is a big basketball fan. The only sport aside from soccer he has played since he was young, Malango is an avid fan of the Golden State Warriors and Steph Curry. When it comes to soccer, though, Real Madrid and Manchester United top his list of favorite clubs.
Here are some other quick facts about Mayele:
Favorite TV Show: Prison Break
Favorite Superhero: Captain America
Favorite Vacation Spot: Paris
Hobby: Playing Video Games
Animal you identify most with: Dog
If you could be anything besides a pro soccer player: Businessman
Something you could instantly become an expert in: Engineering
