The Philadelphia Union have announced they have signed Anthony “Anton” Sorenson to a Homegrown Player contract. The left-back joined the Union academy in 2019, and now has become the 18th homegrown player in team history. Sorenson’s contract is for two years, including a club-option for a third and fourth year.

Ernst Tanner on the signing of Sorenson

“Anton is a promising young player and a natural left-footed defender that will be a valuable addition to our backline, he is an attacking-minded outside back who looks to play forward quickly in transition. His mentality, aggression, and physical skills provide a platform for Anton to become a valuable player as he develops further.” 

In 2019, Sorenson joined the academy system for the U-17 squad. He spent 2020 playing for the Philadelphia Union II in the USL Championship. He made his official debut for the club on August 2nd. Sorenson would then go on to play over 1,000 minutes in 12 appearances with 11 starts. His first professional goal for Union II came in September against Loudoun United. 

Internationally, Sorenson made a name for himself with the U.S Youth National Team. In 2017, he received his first call up for the U-14 squad, and then was called up three times for the u-16 squad. In April of 2018, he made his international debut where the team finished third in the “Torneo Delle Naizoni”.

It is good to see the Union making some additions at the left-back position with their All-Star Kai Wagner looking to leave for Europe. Obviously, it’s very unlikely that Sorenson would win the starting job right away, but he may get some minutes depending on what goes on this MLS season. With COVID-19 protocols, we saw the Union use third-string players for the Eastern Conference Final last season.

Mandatory Credit: Shivant Krishnan