Ben Bender Rejoins the Union Organization
2022 No. 1 Pick Ben Bender Gets a Second Chance in Philly
The Philadelphia Union have signed Ben Bender, a former U-14 Philadelphia Union Academy player (2015–2016), to a contract through the end of the 2025 season.
Bender, 24, was selected first overall in the 2022 MLS SuperDraft by Charlotte C following a standout freshman season with the Maryland Terrapins in 2021.
He went on to make 51 MLS appearances for Charlotte, tallying 7 goals and 8 assists. Bender did not feature in any matches during the 2025 season and was officially released by the club in April.
Welcome back to Philadelphia, Ben.
Good news. And, Charlie Davies wore a Union jersey on the Morning Footy show. A good day for Union fans!