USL Championship side Rhode Island announced that they have parted ways with defender Aime Mabika following a mutual decision to terminate his contract.
Mabika joined the club as a free agent in May last year after leaving Major Soccer League (MLS) outfit Toronto FC.
He once played alongside Lionel Messi at Inter Miami.
Mabika was born in Zambia to Congolese parents, but raised in the United States where he played football at high school and college levels.
Competing in the USL Championship, which serves as the second tier in the United States, Mabika was impressive in defence, garnering a staunch following among Rhode Island fans.
In all competitions for Rhode Island, he tallied an assist and 13 cleansheets in 27 matches, helping them reach the USL Championship playoff finals.
Rhode Island fans devastated by the defender’s exit.
bruce.moravec wrote, “I know RIFC are top heavy with defenders, but this one hurts being a fan favorite. I was just hoping for a little longer before better opportunity came along. Take care and cheers Aime
[https://www.instagram.com/bruce.moravec?igsh=eGgycDZqOGZ1dm9k]
“He will definitely be missed. Great player and great person.” mathmaigician56 commented
[https://www.instagram.com/mathmagician56?igsh=MWtxZGU5MjR5Z2V2ag==]
Meanwhile, jeffreytrull complained, “What a shame! Really enjoyed watching him play.
[https://www.instagram.com/jeffreytrull?igsh=azNuaHozZjBoNHAw]
“Yea, I’m for sure bummed, but if Mabika wants to go then, wish him well- I like that RI player,” str_skateboards conceded
[https://www.instagram.com/str_skateboards?igsh=aWpkaHcxZTFjNTgz]
Mabika, who made his debut for the Zambian national team during an international friendly vs. Congo in 2022, has not played for the Chipolopolo Boys since, owing to naturalization issues.
READ ALSO: “I Like the Challenges” – Hauptle Reacts to WAFCON Group Draw.
