Philadelphia Union announced on Apr. 2 the signing of Malik Jakupovic, a 16-year-old striker, as its 30th Homegrown player. Jakupovic joins the main roster after progressing through the club’s academy and MLS NEXT Pro team.
The move highlights Philadelphia Union’s ongoing focus on developing young talent for its Major League Soccer squad. The club features a roster of professional players on its main team, according to the official website.
Jakupovic described his journey from academy to first team as significant, saying, “It means a lot after coming through the academy, working on my craft every single day, and seeing seee first team guys ever since I was a U15, U16, and U18 player.” He added that completing the pathway to professional soccer has been his dream: “I’ve been dreaming of being a professional my whole entire life.”
Reflecting on training with experienced teammates who followed similar paths, Jakupovic said he is “up for the challenge” and aims to meet their standards in training and games. He recounted leaving Michigan at age 14 to join Philadelphia Union’s residency program: “Started from U15 year, then U16, then U18, then started playing with the second team. It’s been really great.” The experience shaped him both personally and professionally.
Jakupovic said making his debut this season was surreal: “That’s been a goal and a dream of mine ever since I came into the Union.” Looking ahead to personal goals for this season he stated: “I would say for sure getting that goal or getting that assist but really making the effort to make a change into the game.” He also expressed gratitude for support from coaches and staff who believed in him throughout each stage of development.
Philadelphia Union operates as a professional soccer team in Major League Soccer focused on representing Philadelphia in elite competition while fostering fan involvement and youth programs according to its official website (source). The club achieved notable success by winning the Supporters’ Shield in 2020 for best regular-season performance (source). Its facilities include Subaru Park stadium in Chester along with dedicated training centers (source).
As one of Major League Soccer’s youngest players this season alongside teammate Cavan Sullivan, Jakupovic said it is special because it shows trust from coaches: “It means a lot for me because it shows that all the coaches…really trust and believe in me.” He credited older teammates Jovan and Bruno as role models.
The signing underlines Philadelphia Union’s commitment to nurturing homegrown talent while maintaining competitive performance within Major League Soccer.
