Sierra Leonean Duo Joins Minnesota United's Pre-season Camp

Sierra Leonean Duo Joins Minnesota United's Pre-season Camp

As Minnesota United FC intensifies preparations for the 2026 MLS season, the club's pre-season camp in California features two of Sierra Leone's most promising footballers: midfielders Momoh Ibrahim Kamara and Alpha Kabia.

Fully integrated into the "Loons" training setup under new head coach Cameron Knowles, the duo is utilizing the California tour to build the tactical and physical foundation necessary for the upcoming campaign, which begins on February 21 against Austin FC.

Their inclusion with the senior team is a direct result of their standout 2025 performances for MNUFC2 in MLS NEXT Pro. Kamara, recently nominated for the CAF Men’s Young Player of the Year, had his option exercised by the club, securing his future after demonstrating exceptional vision and a "natural feel for the game." Kabia, described as a key component of the Twos' run to the Western Conference Final, saw his commitment extended through 2026, signaling the club's long-term trust in his development.

The focus in California is on tactics, fitness, and chemistry, with Coach Knowles emphasizing the need to build the "volume and capacity" to endure the rigorous 34-game MLS schedule. For Kamara and Kabia, who share existing chemistry from their time with the Sierra Leone U20s and the senior Leone Stars, this period is a critical opportunity to secure a full-time spot on the senior MLS roster.

Their competitive readiness will be tested at the upcoming Coachella Valley Invitational, where they will face MLS rivals Sporting Kansas City and D.C. United.