Philadelphia Union signs a 17-year-old defensive talent who could shake up the MLS | OneFootball

The Philadelphia Union wasted no time to secure one of its most promising young talents, as 17-year-old Neil Pierre inked a four-year deal with an option to extend until 2029. The center back is already featuring for the U.S. U-19 national team and comes from a solid season with Philadelphia Union II, where he played 33 matches, scored two goals, and provided one assist. Now he goes up to the first team, with expectations that he could be a key piece in the defensive structure of the club.

A homegrown talent ready for the next step

Pierre’s transition to the first team was only a matter of time. Last season, he played every minute of Philadelphia Union II’s MLS NEXT Pro playoff run, proving his durability and consistency. His reading of the game and physical presence also caught the club’s attention.

Philadelphia Union sporting director Ernst Tanner didn’t hide his excitement about the young defender’s promotion: "After a standout season with Union II, we’re happy to reward Neil with a first-team contract. His combination of size, speed, and defensive strength makes him a valuable asset to our backline. As a young and dynamic center back with immense potential, we’re excited to continue supporting his development."

He now faces the challenge of trying to carve his niche in a defense that has Jakob Glesnes and newly signed Ian Glavinovich. MLS is increasingly the perfect stage for young talents.

The good news is that MLS has increasingly become a league where youngsters blossom. Of course, an incredibly fast schedule and highly competitive matches will also give Pierre chances to prove himself. If Union really believes in his potential, getting minutes shouldn't be a problem.

Is Pierre the new Mark McKenzie?

Any time a young defender comes through the system for Philadelphia Union, Mark McKenzie's name always seems to pop up. A product of the club, he moved to Belgian side Genk.

Could Pierre take a similar path? It's too early to say, but he does have one standout trait: defensive maturity beyond his years. While McKenzie took a few seasons to find himself in MLS, Pierre steps into the fray on the heels of an eye-opening youth career and international experience at just 17.

Continuing this trajectory, though, would already make European scouts take note anytime soon.

How will Neil Pierre perform in 2025?

The decision in head coach Bradley Carnell hands now will seal Pierre's ultimate fate-to hand him some run of immediate matches or just take him as rotation in the rearguard

With Union's season opener against Orlando City SC scheduled for February 22, the first couple of matches should make things rather clear as to the club's plan for him. If he were to start immediately, that would be a pretty strong indicator that the coaching staff sees him as a day-one starter. If not, it may take him some time to earn his place in the team gradually.

Whatever the approach, one thing is for sure: Philadelphia Union have a special talent in their hands. Now it is all about how he is developed. If everything goes according to plan, then MLS might just be seeing the rise of its next great center back.