16-Year-Old Kellan LeBlanc Signs Homegrown Contract With Philly Union
Philadelphia Union II has secured another promising talent from their Academy pipeline as 16-year-old midfielder Kellan LeBlanc signs a professional MLS NEXT Pro contract, the club announced yesterday.
TL;DR:
“Kellan is a talented young player who showcased his ability at the professional level with Union II last season,” said Philadelphia Union II Head Coach Ryan Richter. “He has become a key part of our midfield, and we’re excited to support his growth and further his development within the club’s pathway.”
This signing represents another success story for Philadelphia’s renowned development system, with LeBlanc becoming the eighth Union Academy player to ink an MLS NEXT Pro professional contract.
The young midfielder’s journey with Union II began on March 24, 2024, when he made his debut as a substitute against New England Revolution II.
But it was his breakout performance on August 18, 2024, that truly caught attention. Starting against Toronto FC, LeBlanc found the back of the net twice in a standout performance that earned him MLS NEXT Pro Rising Star honors for Matchweek 23.
From Academy Success to International Recognition
LeBlanc’s rise hasn’t been limited to club soccer. As a key contributor to the Union Academy’s U17 team, he helped secure the prestigious 2024 Generation adidas Cup, showcasing his composure by converting a penalty in the shootout victory over LA Galaxy in the final.
His talents have also been recognized at the international level. After earning his first call-up to the U.S. U15 Men’s Youth National Team in October 2022, LeBlanc recently received an invitation to join the U17 Men’s Youth National Team for CONCACAF Qualifiers in Alajuela, Costa Rica.
The Pennsylvania native stands 5’8″ and weighs 141 lbs, bringing a combination of technical skill and vision to the Union II midfield despite his young age. Born on March 17, 2008, in West Virginia, LeBlanc represents the future of Philadelphia’s player development philosophy, which continues to produce professional-ready talents from within.
With this signing, Philadelphia Union II adds another promising young player to their roster as they look to build on the club’s commitment to developing homegrown talent for the first team and beyond.
