Philly Leader

Philadelphia Union II has signed Willyam Ferreira, a midfielder from the Philadelphia Union Academy, to an MLS NEXT Pro professional contract. The announcement was made on February 26, 2025, and Ferreira will be added to Union II’s active roster immediately.

"Willyam has proven to have great vision and a strong work ethic, which has been even more evident throughout this preseason," said Philadelphia Union II Head Coach Ryan Richter. "He’s a dynamic player who has already demonstrated great potential at the Academy level, and we look forward to continue guiding him through his development."

Ferreira joined the Union Academy when he was seven years old and has advanced through every age group. Internationally, he earned a call-up to the U-16 Men’s Youth National Team, making his debut in November 2024 during a training camp at the Federación Mexicana de Fútbol headquarters in Toluca, Mexico. This year, Ferreira participated again with the U-16 team at the USA U-16 Domestic Identity Camp in West Palm Beach, FL.

The transaction marks Ferreira as the ninth Academy player to sign an MLS NEXT Pro contract with Philadelphia Union II.