Signed & Inked: Neil Pierre Signs with Philadelphia Union
The Philadelphia Union have secured another promising talent from their youth development pipeline, announcing the signing of defender Neil Pierre to a Homegrown contract through 2028 with an option for 2029.
The 17-year-old Lebanon, Pennsylvania native becomes the 26th Homegrown player in club history.
Player Profile:
- Name: Neil Pierre
- Position: Defender
- Height: 6’5″
- Born: October 19, 2007
- Birthplace: Lebanon, Pennsylvania
- Previous Team: Union II (2023-24)
- USYNT Experience: Member of the U19 USYNT
Pierre’s rapid rise through the Union’s system has been remarkable.
After signing an MLS NEXT Pro contract in July 2023, he quickly established himself as a cornerstone of Union II’s defense.
In 2024, the 6’5″ defender played a pivotal role in the team’s historic run to becoming Eastern Conference Champions, making 22 regular-season appearances and helping the team concede the fifth-fewest goals in the league despite being the youngest team in MLS NEXT Pro.
Key Insights:
- Pierre’s physical profile at 6’5″ but only 176 lbs suggests significant potential for further physical development, which could make him an even more imposing defensive presence as he matures.
- His extensive youth national team experience across four age groups (U15, U16, U18, and U19) in such a short time span demonstrates exceptional progression and hints at his high ceiling as a prospect.
“Following a standout season with Union II, we are happy to be able to reward Neil with a first team contract,” said Philadelphia Union Sporting Director, Ernst Tanner. “His combination of size, speed, and defensive strength makes him a great asset to our backline. As a young, dynamic center back with immense potential, we look forward to continuing and supporting his development.”
His youth career achievements include winning his second Generation adidas Cup with the Union Academy’s U-17 squad and earning Best XI honors at the tournament.
Internationally, Pierre has represented the United States at multiple youth levels, most recently receiving call-ups to both the U18 and U19 national teams.
Featured Image Source: https://www.philadelphiaunion.com/news/neil-pierre-pathway-union-ii-academy-success
Written By: Beau Bridges
Founder of SoccerNovo
I’m Beau 👋 a proud dad of an MLS NEXT player, former soccer coach, soccer enthusiast, and board member of our local youth sports program. I created soccernovo.com to share my knowledge of the game and help parents learn more about youth soccer in the U.S. I also authored an eBook ‘Soccer Coach Made Simple‘. Learn more about Beau.
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