Philadelphia Union ink Jesus Bueno to new three-year contract

The Philadelphia Union announced Friday that they signed midfielder Jesus Bueno to a new contract. Bueno, who first joined the club in June 2021, now has a contract with the Union through 2026 with an option for the 2027 season.

When Bueno first arrived in Philadelphia from Deportivo Lara of Venezuela, he was heralded as the future replacement of midfielder Jose Martinez, who was then amid several transfer rumors. However, when all transfer talks for Martinez between the Union and other clubs fell through, Bueno became a bench piece for the first team and a contributor for the Union II.

2023 was Bueno’s breakout season, as he recorded 24 appearances, along with 10 starts. During the Leagues Cup in the summer, Bueno recorded two goals and three assists in seven appearances. Along with his impressive play in MLS, Bueno received his first call-up to the Venezuelan national team in August and joined the team for a second time in October.

“Jesus’ growth and development over the last two seasons is a testament to his work ethic and potential,” said Philadelphia Union Sporting Director Ernst Tanner in a press release. “He has proven to be an important piece to our midfield; aggressive and advantageous in our transition on attack. We’re happy to be able to reward him with a new contract.”

Bueno’s signing is the first announced news of the 2023-24 offseason for the Union, though other moves are expected after the team missed the Eastern Conference Finals for the first time since 2020.