Philly Leader

Philadelphia Union has announced the signing of Neil Pierre, a 17-year-old defender from Union II and USYNT, to a four-year contract as a Homegrown Player. The agreement extends until 2028 with an option for 2029, making Pierre the 26th Homegrown Player in the club's history.

"After a standout season with Union II, we are pleased to reward Neil with a first-team contract," said Ernst Tanner, Sporting Director of Philadelphia Union. "His combination of size, speed, and defensive strength makes him a great asset to our backline. As a young and dynamic center-back with immense potential, we look forward to continuing and supporting his development."

Pierre became the third academy player to sign an MLS NEXT Pro contract on July 20, 2023, debuting five days later against Columbus Crew 2. In 2024, he played a key role in helping the league's youngest team become Eastern Conference champions for the first time in club history. Over 22 regular-season appearances (20 starts), Pierre helped Union II concede the fifth-fewest goals in the league. He completed 495 passes (73.7% accuracy), ranking third on the team. Pierre also recorded an assist for the winning goal in the MLS NEXT Pro Eastern Conference quarterfinals against New York City FC II by setting up CJ Olney's decisive goal in the 86th minute. Additionally, he won his second Generation adidas Cup with Union Academy's U-17 team and was named to the tournament's Best XI.

Internationally, Pierre has represented United States Youth National Teams at U-15 through U-19 levels. He received his first call-up to the U-18 team for the Niigata International Youth Football Tournament on September 6, 2024. Earlier that year, he earned his first U-19 selection on March 15, 2024. In 2023, he appeared with the U-16 team at the International Dream Cup where he captained against Netherlands.

Transaction: Philadelphia Union signed defender Neil Pierre to a four-year contract guaranteed through 2028 with a club option for 2029 on February 4, 2025.

Neil Pierre is listed as being born on October 19, 2007; standing at six feet five inches tall; weighing approximately one hundred seventy-six pounds; hailing from Lebanon Pennsylvania; holding United States citizenship; acquired by Philadelphia Union on February fourth two thousand twenty-five after previous experience playing for Union II during twenty twenty-three through twenty twenty-four seasons.