Darius Randell Signs Homegrown Contract With Minnesota United

Minnesota United just signed their youngest homegrown player ever, proving that hard work through youth soccer can lead to professional dreams.

From Youth Soccer to the Pros

Darius Randell‘s path to professional soccer shows what’s possible with dedication. The 17-year-old forward from Brooklyn Park, Minnesota, just signed his first Major League Soccer contract with Minnesota United after climbing every step of their system.

Randell started with Boreal Football Club, then joined Minnesota United’s Academy as a defender on the U15 team in 2022. He switched to forward, moved up to U17 and U19 teams, then joined MNUFC2 before earning his main team contract.

Record-Breaking Performance

This step-by-step approach to player development is exactly what American soccer needs – giving young players time to grow instead of rushing them.

Randell proved he belonged at higher levels by scoring six goals in 41 games with MNUFC2. His biggest moment came in the U.S. Open Cup against Louisville City SC, where he started and scored. At 17 years and 255 days old, he became the youngest player in Minnesota United history to both play and score in a match.

This season, he’s already scored four goals and provided one assist in over 400 minutes of playing time.

What Being “Homegrown” Means

Randell joins three other Minnesota United homegrown players: goalkeeper Fred Emmings, forward Patrick Weah, and defender Devin Padelford. Homegrown players come up through the team’s own youth system instead of being bought from other teams.

His contract runs through 2026 with team options for 2027 and 2028. As an “Off-Roster Homegrown” player, he can play in up to six regular season MLS games per year, plus unlimited appearances in other competitions.

Grateful for the Journey

Randell’s maturity in thanking his support system shows why he succeeded at such a young age.

“First, I want to say Alhamdulillah, all praise to Allah. I am grateful to the club for giving me this opportunity,” Randell said. “I’m grateful for all the Academy coaches and staff at our club, and my family.”

Club officials praise Randell as a role model who earned his spot through hard work at each level.

The Future Looks Bright

Born in Monrovia, Liberia, and raised in Brooklyn Park, the 6-foot, 160-pound forward represents Minnesota United’s future. His three-year journey from academy to professional contract proves that local talent development works.

For young soccer players in Minnesota, Randell’s story shows their dreams are possible. For Minnesota United fans, he represents an exciting homegrown talent ready to make his mark at Allianz Field.