Minnesota United signs veteran defender Kyle Duncan

Minnesota United FC has bolstered its backline with the addition of veteran right-back Kyle Duncan, the club announced Friday. The 28-year-old defender joins the Loons on a one-year contract that runs through December 2026, with a club option to extend the deal through June 2027.

Duncan arrives in Minnesota with extensive Major League Soccer experience following an eight-year stint with the New York Red Bulls. During his time with the Eastern Conference club, the Brooklyn, New York, native made 166 appearances (132 starts) across all competitions, logging nearly 12,500 minutes on the pitch. Known for his ability to contribute on both ends of the field, he recorded six goals and 17 assists for RBNY.

His tenure in New York included significant team success. Duncan was a member of the squad that captured the 2018 MLS Supporters’ Shield and helped lead the team to an Eastern Conference title during the 2024 MLS Cup Playoffs.

“Kyle brings MLS experience and a strong understanding of what it takes to compete in this league,” said MNUFC Chief Soccer Officer and Sporting Director Khaled El-Ahmad. “He is a reliable defender who will strengthen our back line and elevate the level of competition within the group. We’re pleased to welcome Kyle to Minnesota.”

Duncan’s professional journey began in the Red Bulls Academy before he signed his first professional contract with French side Valenciennes’ U-19 squad. He returned stateside in 2018 to join RBNY’s first team.

Internationally, Duncan brings a unique background, having represented both the United States and Jamaica. After earning caps with the U.S. U-18, U-20, and senior national teams between 2015 and 2020, Duncan most recently switched his international allegiance to Jamaica. He received his first call-up for the Reggae Boyz during their 2026 FIFA World Cup qualifying campaign in September 2025.

In addition to his on-field pedigree, Duncan expressed a desire to bring a strong, supportive presence to the Minnesota United locker room and fanbase.

“Be more like a fountain and less like a drain. I know that’s the kind of person I want to be and I want to be someone who is uplifting,” Duncan said. “No matter what I may be facing in life, I want to bring as much positivity and encouragement as I possibly can to this club, the fans, and my teammates.”

The signing adds vital depth, competition, and championship-level experience to Minnesota United’s defensive corps as the 2026 season gets underway.