COLUMBUS – Columbus Crew 2 announced today the signings of Crew Academy products Gianmarco Di Noto and Prince Forfor to MLS NEXT Pro contracts through the end of the 2026 season.
Di Noto and Forfor join Chase Adams, Brent Adu-Gyamfi, Anthony Alaouieh, Giorgio De Libera, Quinton Elliot, Nicolas Rincón and Chris Rogers as Academy players who signed Crew 2 contracts.
“These signings highlight the Academy’s success in developing top talent and the impact of its efforts in identifying and preparing players to compete at the next level with Crew 2,” Academy Director Brian Bliss said. “Both young men have grown as players and people as they have progressed on the player pathway. We’re thrilled to celebrate their success and eager to see what else they accomplish with the Crew.”
Di Noto made his Crew 2 debut on March 9, 2025 against Orlando City B and has logged 801 minutes in 10 matches (all starts) in MLS NEXT Pro play this season. The Rochester Hills, Mich. native also made two appearances during the Capybaras’ 2025 U.S. Open Cup campaign, recording just over 45 minutes played. He joined Crew Academy in March 2023 from Liverpool FC International Academy Michigan. The defender has represented the United States Youth National Team in U-15 and U-16 camps. Most recently, Di Noto competed in friendlies against Argentina and Uruguay in May.
"Gianmarco is a talented and disciplined player, and his experience in our Academy and with the Youth National Team has shaped him into a dynamic presence on the pitch,” Bliss said. “We are excited for him to continue to develop within our organization.”
The 16-year-old earned the Club’s 2024-25 “Who Dares Wins” award, recognizing the Academy player who best demonstrates bravery, competitiveness and a constant desire to improve. He was also selected to represent the Club as a rising star at the 2025 Generation adidas Cup Media Day.
With Crew 2, Forfor registered four appearances, one start and 216 minutes in 2025. The 16-year-old debuted with the side against Inter Miami CF II on March 23, 2025, playing 89 minutes. After coming to the Crew Academy from FC United DSM in January 2024, the forward has earned numerous call ups to the United States Youth National Team and competed in friendlies against Argentina and Uruguay with the U-16 team.
“Prince is a strong performer in our Club. Beyond his elite soccer skills, he has grown into a true leader among his teammates,” Bliss said. “His positive attitude and ability to rise in big moments make him an exciting and important addition to Crew 2, and we’re proud to continue supporting his growth as a player and person.”
The Des Moines, Iowa native was named MVP of the 2025 MLS NEXT All-Star Game, highlighted by scoring the go-ahead goal in the 76th minute in East’s the 4-3 win. Forfor was also recognized in the 2025 U-16 GA Cup Best XI after recording four goals in the squad’s run to the quarterfinals. Additionally, he has won the Club’s “Joy” award in back-to-back seasons, emphasizing the attitude and approach he brings to the Club every day.
Crew 2 returns to action in a road contest against FC Cincinnati 2 at NKU Soccer Stadium on Thursday, Sept. 25 [7:30 p.m. ET / MLSNEXTPro.com].
For a full schedule of Columbus Crew 2 matches, please click here. Supporters interested in single-match tickets for Crew 2 matches can do so at this link.
Name: Gianmarco Di Noto
Pronunciation: dee NO-toh
DOB: March 27, 2009
Previous Club: Liverpool FC IA Michigan
Name: Prince Forfor
Pronunciation: for-for
DOB: March 14, 2009
Previous Club: FC United DSM
