Crew 2 Signs Midfielder Taha Habroune

COLUMBUS – Columbus Crew 2 announced today that it has signed Crew Academy midfielder and U.S. Youth International Taha Habroune to an MLS NEXT Pro professional contract.

“We are proud to sign Taha to his first professional contract with Crew 2,” said Columbus Crew 2 General Manager Corey Wray. “Over the past 18 months, we have seen his continued development translate into his play on the field, from being named MVP at the Generation adidas Cup, helping the U.S. U-17s qualify for the World Cup and earning opportunities to train with the First Team. The Crew are dedicated to providing a pathway to the professional ranks as we cultivate top talent in the state and region, and this signing is a true testament to the efforts of the entire club, including Marc Nicholls, Kelvin Jones and the Crew Academy staff to help young players develop. We look forward to helping Taha further progress and grow as a member of the Black & Gold.”

A Columbus native, Habroune joined the Crew Academy in 2019. In the most recent Generation adidas Cup, Habroune was selected as the tournament MVP for the U-17 age group after helping the Crew reach the semifinals.

The 17-year-old made his professional debut earlier this year in Crew 2’s season opener, entering the match in the 82nd minute on March 26. Habroune made his second appearance in Crew 2’s 4-0 home win over Orlando City B on May 14.

A U.S. Youth International, Habroune has six caps and three international goals to his credit. He was a member of the final roster for the 2023 Concacaf Under-17 Championship in February, helping lead the U.S. to a berth for the upcoming FIFA U-17 World Cup.

Habroune joins Zion Scarlett and Aiden Wolf as the three Crew Academy players to sign professional contracts with Crew 2.

TRANSACTION: Columbus Crew 2 signs midfielder Taha Habroune to an MLS NEXT Pro professional contract on May 21, 2023.

Name: Taha Habroune

Pronunciation: hah-BROON

Position: Midfielder

Date of Birth: Feb. 5, 2006

Hometown: Columbus, OH

Citizenship: United States