CHESTER, Pa. (January 24, 2023) – Philadelphia Union II announced today that they have signed defender Juan Castillo and midfielder Pedro Alvarez to MLS NEXT Pro contracts. The duo will be added to the Union II’s active roster pending receipt of their International Transfer Certificates and will occupy international roster slots.
“Pedro and Juan are exciting and high-potential additions to our squad,” said Union II Head Coach, Marlon LeBlanc. “Their playing styles fit well with our club’s philosophy, and I think they will adapt well to our team and league. I believe they will make a big impact on our success.”
Castillo, 20, appeared in 42 matches in his two years with USL Championship side New York Red Bulls II, registering three assists, before signing on a short-term loan with New York Red Bulls ahead of a U.S. Open Cup quarterfinal against New York City FC in 2022. Prior to joining New York Red Bulls II, Castillo played for Colombian side Millonarios FC U-20 in the Copa Libertadores U-20. He also represented Colombia at the U-17 and U-20 level.
Alvarez, 21, comes to Philadelphia from the Venezuelan Segunda División, Venezuela’s Second Tier League, where he played for Aragua FC. In his four years at Aragua FC, Alvarez appeared in 84 matches in all competitions. Prior to joining Aragua FC U20 in 2018, Alvarez was loaned to Racing Club U20 before re-joining Aragua FC U20 later that year. He was then signed to Aragua FC’s first team on January 1, 2019.
