Philadelphia Union Bolster Attack with Signing of Forward Agustín Anello
The Philadelphia Union have officially expanded their offensive options with the signing of forward Agustín Anello. The 21-year-old winger joins the club on a contract guaranteed through 2026, with an additional club option for 2027, filling a Supplemental Roster slot. Anello arrives in Chester after spending the formative years of his professional career in Europe, most recently with Belgian side Lommel SK.
Born in Hialeah, Florida, Anello took an unconventional route to Major League Soccer. He moved to Spain at a young age, developing through the youth ranks of RCD Espanyol and UE Cornellà before moving to Belgium. At Lommel SK, a club under the City Football Group umbrella, he made 42 appearances, scoring seven goals and providing five assists. He also gained first-division experience during a loan spell with Croatian giants HNK Hajduk Split in 2023. This signing aligns with Philadelphia’s longstanding strategy of recruiting young, high-potential talent capable of pressing high up the pitch and transitioning quickly into the attack.
However, the acquisition is not without its skeptics. While Anello adds necessary depth to a squad that struggled with attacking rotation last season, some critics argue that this move does not address the team’s need for a proven, elite goalscorer. Coming primarily from the Belgian second tier (Challenger Pro League), there are valid concerns regarding how quickly Anello can adapt to the physicality and travel demands of MLS. Furthermore, segments of the fanbase have been vocal about the need for significant investment in a “Designated Player” caliber striker, and a supplemental roster signing—while financially prudent—may be viewed as a safe, low-cost maneuver rather than the ambitious statement required to push the club back into immediate title contention.
