Philadelphia Union Re-Sign Defender Aurelien Collin Veteran defender and former MLS Cup champion and three-time MLS All-Star rejoins Union

CHESTER, Pa. (December 27, 2019) – Philadelphia Union announced today that the club has reached an agreement on a new contract with veteran defender Aurelien Collin (pronounced: are-RELL-ee-in COLL-in). The former MLS Cup Champion and three-time MLS All-Star first joined the Union as a free agent for the 2019 season and will return on a one-year contract for the 2020 campaign.

"We are pleased to welcome Aurelien back to our roster for the 2020 season,” said Union Sporting Director Ernst Tanner. "Aurelien is a proven winner with a strong work ethic that is matched by his heart and passion. We look forward to his continued contributions to our defense and leadership on and off the field.”

Collin made six appearances for the Union in the 2019 season and helped the club keep a clean sheet in his debut start vs. Montreal on April 20, 2019. He made one appearance in the Lamar Hunt U.S. Open Cup, starting the fourth round match at D.C. United on June 12, 2019.

Prior to signing with the Union in 2019, Collin spread his career across several MLS clubs; New York Red Bulls (2016-2018), Orlando City SC (2015-2016), and Sporting Kansas City (2011-2014). He is a former MLS Cup Champion and MLS Cup MVP, both achieved in 2013 with Sporting Kansas City. He won the Lamar Hunt U.S. Open Cup in 2012 and was also named MLS Best XI that season. Additionally, he helped the New York Red Bulls win the Supporters’ Shield in 2018, and was an MLS All-Star in 2012, 2013 and 2014.

Prior to MLS, Collin spent time in the academies of both Sedan and Amiens in his native France, as well as with Spanish outfit RCD Mallorca. He signed his first senior deal ahead of the 2007-08 season with Scottish Premier League side Gretna FC. In 2008, Collin joined Greek club Panserraikos, followed by Welsh club Wrexham FC and then Vitoria Setubal of the Portuguese topflight.

TRANSACTION: Philadelphia Union re-signs defender Aurelien Collin on December 27, 2019.