Matt Real returning to Colorado Springs Switchbacks to aid title defense

After a successful loan that ended with lifting a USL Championship trophy, Drexel Hill, Pa. native Matthew Real is returning to Colorado Springs Switchbacks in 2025.

He’ll also be reuniting with former Philadelphia Union teammate Anthony Fontana, whose signing was announced earlier this week.

“Last year was a historic year but I’m hungry for more,” said Matt Real. “I’m excited to be back in front of the best fans in the league and repeat the success we had last year.”

Real played 2,541 minutes, scored one goal, provided two assists, registered 68 clearances and won 41 of 53 tackles after being loaned out by the Philadelphia Union in 2024. His option for the 2025 season was declined by the Union.

“Matt helped kickstart our season last year, and we want that to continue into the 2025 season,” said Switchbacks FC Sporting Director Stephen Hogan, a former Reading United head coach and Philadelphia Union II assistant. “His decision-making on the ball and defensive positioning are great assets to our backline and the team. We can’t wait to see him back in the building.”

Real was a teammate of Switchbacks head coach James Chambers with the Bethlehem Steel and also played with Switchbacks midfielder Zach Zandi, who was part of the club their last two seasons in the USL Championship. Switchbacks captain Matt Mahoney, a Temple grad, played for Bethlehem Steel from 2017-2018 while Fontana played on the team from 2016-2019.