Union add former MLS top overall pick Ben Bender to roster

Field Level Media|published: Fri 9th May, 10:42 2025

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 signed midfielder Ben Bender through the end of the 2025 season, the team announced on Friday.

Bender is a former Union Academy player (2015-16) and was the first overall pick of the 2022 MLS SuperDraft.

The 24-year-old returns to Philadelphia after recording seven goals and one assist in 51 career matches (32 starts) with FC Charlotte.

"We've been following Ben's development since he joined the Union Academy in 2015 and have watched him become a highly productive young player," Union sporting director Ernst Tanner said. "He had a standout inaugural professional season and has the ability to be a great finisher. He adds a goal-scoring threat to our midfield, and we look forward to seeing his contributions."

Bender played most of 2024 with USL Championship side Tampa Bay and has not appeared in an MLS match in 2025.

--Field Level Media