“CJ’s development as he’s progressed through the academy and at Union II has been remarkable. With his speed and agility, combined with advanced technique, he’s been a different type of player for Union II,” said Philadelphia Union Sporting Director Ernst Tanner. “At just 17 years old, he has a bright future. His creativity and ability to facilitate goals will add a differential piece to our midfield as we look to continue to strengthen our roster in the coming weeks.”
Olney, 17, joined the Union Academy in 2021 before becoming the fifth Union II player to sign a professional contract with MLS NEXT Pro in November 2023. Since joining Union II, Olney has started 36 of his 39 appearances while scoring eight goals and recording 15 assists. This season with Union II, Olney has made 15 appearances (13 starts), scoring four goals and leading the league with seven assists. Olney made his MLS NEXT Pro debut on July 7, 2022, against Rochester NYFC and scored his first professional goal at Subaru Park on March 26, 2023, against Orlando City B. Additionally, his 33 key passes ranked as the most among Union II players this season. Olney recently signed four short-term deals and a pair of caps this season for Union first-team matches, as well as joining the squad for both of the 2024 Leagues Cup group stage matches.
At the Generation adidas Cup 2023, Olney played a crucial role in the Philadelphia Union U-17s’ triumph over Dallas. Prior to joining the Union Academy, Olney won the Golden Ball at the 2021 MLS NEXT Cup with the U-17s in the Player Development Academy.
Internationally, Olney was one of 23 players to receive an invitation to the U.S. U-17 Men’s Youth National Team for a training camp in Palm Beach, Florida, in 2023. In 2024, Olney received an international call-up to the U.S. U-19 Men’s Youth National Team for their training camp in South America from June 3-11, where the team played two international friendlies against Argentina and Uruguay. Olney appeared in both matches, playing a total of 51 minutes.
Transaction: Philadelphia Union have signed midfielder CJ Olney to a Homegrown contract through 2028, with an option for 2029.
Name: Christopher Olney
Position: Midfielder
Height: 5’9″
Weight: 153
Birthdate: December 16, 2006
Place of birth: Chicago, Illinois
Hometown: Hillsborough, Nueva Jersey
Citizenship: United States, Italy
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