Crew Academy product Taha Habroune signs first team contract

On Wednesday, the Columbus Crew expanded their roster by officially signing midfielder Taha Habroune from Columbus Crew 2 to the first team. Habroune committed to a contract extending through the 2027 season, featuring a team option for 2028. This move marks him as the 21st Homegrown player in Black & Gold history, aligning with the ongoing strategy of integrating players who progressed through the Academy and/or Crew 2 into the first team.

The midfielder will have a chance to make a name for himself in the upcoming season, as another Crew 2 player will also try to establish themselves with the first team. The 17-year-old joined the Crew Academy in 2019. In the 2023 Generation adidas Cup, he earned the tournament MVP title for the U-17 age group, contributing to the Crew's journey to the semifinals. Post his standout performance in the GA Cup, Habroune was chosen to represent the Crew in the 2023 MLS NEXT All-Star Game.

As a U.S. Youth International, Habroune recently played for the United States in the 2023 FIFA U-17 World Cup in Indonesia. He featured in all three group stage matches (two starts), aiding the U.S. in advancing to the knockout rounds. In the Round of 16 against Germany, Habroune scored the opening goal in the U-17s' 3-2 loss to the eventual champions. With a total of 11 caps for the U.S., he has netted four international goals. Additionally, he found the net three times in the U-17 CONCACAF Championships last February. His goals came in consecutive matches against Barbados and Trinidad & Tobago, as well as in the quarterfinals against Guatemala. A highly promising beginning to his international career.

"Taha is a talented young player who has continued to improve since joining our Club five years ago. Signing a First Team contract is a testament to his efforts and our Club’s commitment to creating opportunities to advance along our player pathway"

- Tim Bezbatchenko