The Colorado Springs Switchbacks FC announced today it had acquired Defender Matthew Real on loan from the Philadelphia Union for the 2024 season. The move is pending league and federation approval.
“I want to thank the Switchbacks organization for believing in my ability and trusting me to contribute to this team,” said Real. “I’m looking forward to coming in and helping the team to the best of my ability in whatever way possible.”
Real, 24, has been playing for Philadelphia Union since 2018, making a total of 50 appearances and racking up 52 clearances. Playing 1,735 minutes he also had two goals, four assists, 34 accurate long balls, and 503 successful short passes. In the 2019-2020 season, Real earned the Supporters Shield with Philadelphia Union.
In 2016, Real first signed on with Bethlehem Steel FC, the official affiliate of the Philadelphia Union of the MLS, and played alongside current Switchbacks Captain Matt Mahoney and Switchbacks Head Coach James Chambers. Throughout his playing career with Bethlehem Steel FC, he made a total of 59 appearances, 159 clearances and 20 blocks.
Real competed at the International level for the United States on the U16, U18, and U20 teams, making 21 total appearances. The 24-year-old participated in many international friendlies and in the 2019 U-20 World Cup series. A big international achievement for Real was in 2018, winning the CONCACAF U-20 Championship and playing the full 90 minutes in the final game.
“We are delighted to get Matt on loan from Philadelphia. He is an exciting defender and we have known him throughout his development into the pros,” said Sporting Director, Stephen Hogan. “He’s an aggressive player and his ability to understand the defensive aspect will help this group throughout the season. We are excited to welcome Matt and Seidy to Colorado.”
Name: Matthew Real
Position: Defender
Height: 6’0″
Date of Birth: July 10th, 1999
Age: 24
Hometown: Drexel Hill, PA
