Sacramento Republic acquire Nabi Kibunguchy on loan from Minnesota United

Sacramento Republic FC announced on Thursday they have acquired defender Nabi Kibunguchy on loan from Minnesota United. The loan could last for the entire 2021 season, but MNUFC have the right to recall the player at any time.

Kibunguchy is a rookie, having been drafted by the Loons in the MLS SuperDraft in January, No. 18 overall, out of UC Davis. But it’s a homecoming for Kibunguchy, as he grew up in Elk Grove and joined Sac Republic’s academy team in 2015 before heading off to college. In some respects, that makes him a roundabout homegrown player for the first team.

“Nabi has a special connection to Republic FC as a member of our inaugural academy class, and we’re excited to welcome him home,” said Republic FC President & General Manager Todd Dunivant. “His size and versatility will bolster our backline throughout the season, and we look forward to integrating him into the squad.”

Kibunguchy is expected to be available for Saturday’s game against Phoenix Rising FC at Heart Health Park, and seeing as he hasn’t made his debut as a pro yet, it looks like that could come with Republic FC, this weekend or beyond. It’s a cool story!

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