Position: Defender
Height: 6-2
Weight: 160 lbs
Born: March 2, 2007
Hometown: Roseville, California
Nationality: United States, Nigeria
College: n/a
Previous Club: Republic FC Youth Academy
Joined Republic FC: November 17, 2023 (signed pro contract out of Republic FC Youth Academy)
Career Bio
A Roseville native, Ukaegbu joined Republic FC’s academy at 14 years old in 2021. He joined Republic FC’s first team on his first professional contract in November 2023 after two seasons in the club’s Academy system.
Prior to his signing, the defender appeared in 60 matches for the club’s youth sides, scoring three goals and helping the club’s U15 and U17 teams reach the 2022 and 2023 MLS NEXT Cup playoffs. After joining Republic FC’s academy, he was identified as one of the top youth players in Northern California, and earned an invitation to the Fall YNT Regional ID Center in San Jose. Throughout Republic FC’s 2023 USL Championship season, Ukaegbu earned opportunities to train with the club’s first team, including action in preseason friendlies against other professional clubs.
Milestones & Honors
- 2024: Led Republic FC Academy products in minutes
- Called up to U.S. U-19 Men’s Youth National Team Training Camp (October 2024, November 2024)
- Called up to U.S. U-17 Men’s Youth National Team Training Camp (March 2023)
- May 7, 2024 (U.S. Open Cup): Made his pro debut & first career start
- August 3, 2024: Made his USL Championship debut
