Tracking former Loons across the USL in 2026
While Major League Soccer often dominates the headlines, the USL ecosystem is absolutely brimming with former Minnesota United talent this season. From the Championship down to League Two, we are currently tracking 23 former Loons (and Loons on loan) across 18 different clubs, making their mark on the pitch and leading the charge on the touchlines.
However, the start of the 2026 USL Championship season is currently clouded by an ongoing labor dispute that could potentially delay the opening weekend. Leading the charge for the players at the negotiating table is a very familiar face: former Loon Connor Tobin, who currently serves as the Executive Director of the USL Players Association (USLPA).
Following over 550 days of negotiations for a new Collective Bargaining Agreement, approximately 90% of participating USLPA members recently voted to authorize a strike. While the league and players have agreed on moving to 12-month contracts, significant sticking points remain regarding unilateral contract buyouts, minimum compensation, and standardized healthcare.
Tobin recently shed light on the stark realities facing many athletes in the lower divisions, stating, “We still have players in this league that qualify for food stamps,” and noting that several clubs don’t even provide access to a health insurance plan for their players. When asked about the possibility of a work stoppage impacting the start of the season, Tobin was blunt about where things stand.
“All options are on the table,” Tobin said. “That’s essentially what the players have told our bargaining committee. We’re trying to get to a deal. That’s always where we’ve operated from, but there’s a recognition from our player pool, given how the league has approached us, given what the league currently has on the table, that our bargaining committee needs all options available to them.” He added that “the distance between the parties is still pretty significant, so that’s frustrating.”
If a deal isn’t reached, fans might have to wait a little longer to see these players take the pitch. But whether they are promising MNUFC prospects on loan to gain crucial professional minutes or seasoned veterans continuing their storied careers, there are plenty of familiar faces to root for in the USL this year once the action officially kicks off.
Here is your comprehensive guide to the former Minnesota United players and coaches currently plying their trade across the USL Championship, USL League One, and USL League Two.
USL Championship
Birmingham Legion FC
Samuel Shashoua brings his technical ability and attacking flair to Birmingham Legion. The creative playmaker will be tasked with unlocking opposing defenses in the highly competitive East.
Brooklyn FC
One of the most exciting developments for Loons fans tracking the USL is the progress of Kayne Rizvanovich. The highly touted MNUFC prospect is currently on loan with Brooklyn FC, where he is expected to get significant, high-leverage minutes to accelerate his development in a competitive environment.
Hartford Athletic
Similarly, young center-back Britton Fischer is out on loan with Hartford Athletic for the 2026 season. After an impressive stint with MNUFC2 and earning a First Team contract, this loan provides Fischer with the perfect testing ground to hone his defensive reliability against veteran USL attackers.
Indy Eleven
No team in the USL has a stronger Minnesota flavor than Indy Eleven. Head Coach Sean McAuley is at the helm, bringing his tactical experience from his time as an assistant and interim manager for the Loons. On the pitch, he has built a strong spine of former MNUFC talent. Goalkeeper Eric Dick protects the net, veteran midfielder Jack Blake pulls the strings in the center of the park, and newly signed forward Loïc Mesanvi looks to bring a dynamic, youthful spark to the attack after developing in the MNUFC2 system.
Las Vegas Lights FC
Midfielder Rory O’Driscoll heads out to the desert this season, looking to be a creative force for the Las Vegas Lights as they push to make noise in the Western Conference.
Louisville City FC
Louisville City is another USL powerhouse guided by a former Loon. Head Coach Danny Cruz has built a perennial contender in Kentucky. He is joined by versatile winger Sam Gleadle and the promising Babacar Niang, creating a formidable squad looking to push for silverware once again.
New Mexico United
After a successful loan spell in 2025, center-back Kipp Keller officially signed a contract with New Mexico United ahead of the 2026 season to help anchor their backline in the Western Conference.
North Carolina FC
Veteran midfielder Collin Martin continues his excellent USL career, bringing his composure, passing range, and leadership to North Carolina FC as they navigate the tough Eastern Conference.
Orange County SC
Kevin Partida remains a combative and reliable presence in the midfield for Orange County SC. The hard-tackling former Loon has carved out a fantastic career out West and continues to be a crucial piece of the puzzle for OCSC.
Rhode Island FC
The 2024 MNUFC draft pick, Hugo Bacharach, is returning for his second season in the USL Championship, looking to build on an impressive run with the Ocean State club last year.
San Antonio FC
Curt Calov is suiting up for San Antonio FC, bringing his attacking instincts and set-piece delivery to a squad with a rich history of deep playoff runs.
USL League One
AV Alta FC
“Batman” is back in action. The iconic Miguel Ibarra continues his professional journey with AV Alta FC. His relentless work rate and experience make him an absolute marquee player for the League One side.
Fort Wayne FC
Versatile defensive midfielder and center-back James Musa brings a wealth of domestic and international experience to Fort Wayne FC, acting as a defensive anchor for the club.
Greenville Triumph SC
Veteran left-back Tyler Polak is continuing his long, successful stint in USL League One, officially returning for another campaign to lock down the flank for Greenville Triumph SC.
One Knoxville SC
Former MNUFC2 standout Finn McRobb is taking the next step in his career in Tennessee, bringing his defensive grit and physical presence to One Knoxville’s backline.
Union Omaha
Long-tenured Loons legend Brent Kallman is still locking things down defensively, bringing his invaluable veteran leadership and experience to Union Omaha’s backline this season.
Westchester SC
Veteran left-back Kemar Lawrence is patrolling the flanks for Westchester SC. “Kemar The Taxi” remains a lethal two-way threat, utilizing his pace and crossing ability to terrorize League One defenses.
USL League Two
Minneapolis City SC
The Loons connections aren’t just limited to the professional ranks. Local soccer legend and former Minnesota United NASL manager Carl Craig was recently appointed as the head coach of Minneapolis City SC. Known for his tactical acumen and incredible personality, Craig will be leading the charge for the Crows in USL League Two this summer.
