Philadelphia signs M Ben Bender to new contract

Field Level Media|published: Wed 7th January, 10:52 2026

Jun 29, 2024; Houston, Texas, USA; Charlotte FC midfielder Ben Bender (15) dribbles the ball during the first half against Houston Dynamo FC at Shell Enegry Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Maria Lysaker-Imagn Images

The Philadelphia Union announced a new contract with midfielder Ben Bender on Wednesday.

The former No. 1 overall draft pick is signed through June 2027 with an option through June 2028.

Bender, 24, has seven goals and seven assists in 58 MLS matches with Charlotte FC (2022-24) and Philadelphia (2025).

"Ben has been a positive addition and has made meaningful contributions since returning to the Union last May," head coach Bradley Carnell said. "When given opportunities, he's consistently made the most of them, bringing a high level of competitiveness and a strong work ethic to the pitch every day. We're confident in his continued development and future impact with the team."

Bender appeared in seven matches (four starts) last season, posting a career-best 82% pass completion rate across 320 minutes.

--Field Level Media

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