Philly Leader

Philadelphia Union Academy has announced its 2024-25 signing class ahead of the MLS NEXT campaign, which begins on Saturday morning. The academy added 14 players during the summer to strengthen what is considered one of the top academies in Major League Soccer. The announcement follows a successful season for the Union Academy, highlighted by the U-17 team's back-to-back Generation adidas Cup Championships.

"I would like to welcome our newest additions to the Philadelphia Union Academy and a massive thank you to the clubs that have worked with and prepared these players for this opportunity, which is a testament to the strength of their developmental environments," said Jon Scheer, Philadelphia Union Director of Academy and Professional Development. "This group joins a motivated and talented player pool at the academy, supported by a staff steadfast in their commitment to developing each player to their fullest potential. Thank you to our scouting department for their comprehensive efforts throughout the identification and recruitment process. Their work is a crucial component that contributes to the overall success and efficiency of our academy."

The 2024 signing class includes:

Chelo Avalos (2009, San Jose Earthquakes)

Colton Buehler (2010, PA Classics)

Kaden Carnes (2011, Sporting PA)

Abdoulaye Diop (2010, Springfield SYC)

Chuka Ebo (2009, Sporting AC)

Abram Judy (2010, Delaware FC)

Jack Karwoski (2007, Beadling SC)

Dylan Luebbert (2009, Real Jersey)

Isaiah Mendoza (2009, El Camino FC)

Landon Mulvenna (2010, New York Red Bulls)

Gael Gonzalez Trejo (2011, Lehigh Valley United)

Jordan Vazquez (2012, Real Jersey)

Jack Wayne (2008, Barca Residency Academy)

Mohamed Yosaf (2011, Beadling SC)

The new season opens this weekend with matches hosted by Philadelphia Union Academy's U-18s, U-16s, U-14s and U-13s against Achilles FC at Widener University Turf Fields at WSFS Bank Sportsplex on Saturday. All four matches will be streamed for free.