Minnesota United has signed defenders Wyatt Omsberg and Carter Manley, who joined the team in the first round of the 2018 MLS SuperDraft in January.
“We were excited when we got them and we think they have a big and bright future,” said MNUFC Head Coach Adrian Heath. “They’ve been working hard in preseason and gaining the confidence of the group. We are really impressed with their attitudes, they have come in and have approached this opportunity as professionals.”
Omsberg, 22, was selected 15th overall by MNUFC from Dartmouth College, where he was a two-time Ivy League Defensive Player of the Year and three-time first-team All-Ivy honoree. As a co-captain during his senior season, the towering defender helped secure a defense that allowed just 12 goals en route to a No. 15 seed in the NCAA Tournament.
He made his Loons’ preseason debut in the second half of the 4-1 win over Florida International University and earned minutes against Eastern Florida State College and Orlando City SC before putting on an impressive display to keep Charleston Battery scoreless in the second half of the Carolina Challenge Cup opener. With his signing, the Scarborough, Maine native becomes just the fourth professional soccer player from the state.
“I couldn’t be more excited to start my professional career with Minnesota United,” said Omsberg. “It is a dream come true to play for such a fantastic organization. I can’t wait to give it my all for the club and our fans this season.”
Manley, 21, was selected 23rd overall from Duke University, following a fantastic career as a three-year starter with the Blue Devils, which included 58 matches –– 52 starts –– a goal and 12 assists from his role as an attack-minded outside back.
During preseason, Manley proved his potential both in defense and attack by producing a number of excellent crosses against Charleston, in addition to forming a part of the backline that kept the hosts scoreless across the second 45 minutes. A native of Elkridge, Maryland, he first familiarized himself with the Loons while training with the team briefly during the summer of 2017.
“I’m excited to sign my first professional contract with Minnesota United. It’s an incredible opportunity to join this club and become a part of the community,” said Manley. “I can’t wait to get the season started!”
Omsberg and Manley join seventh overall pick Mason Toye, a forward out of Indiana University, who already signed with MNUFC by way of his being a Generation adidas player.
Becoming a 2018 season ticket holder today guarantees you a seat at Allianz Field in 2019. Get your tickets for next season at MNUFC.COM or by calling 763.4SOCCER.
Transaction: Minnesota United signs defenders Wyatt Omsberg and Carter Manley.
VITALS
Wyatt Omsberg
Position: Defender
Born: 9/21/1995 (22 years old)
Height: 6’4”
Weight: 180 lbs.
Last club: N/A
Birthplace: Scarborough, Maine
Citizenship: USA
Carter Manley
Position: Defender
Born: 4/29/1996 (21 years old)
Height: 5’11”
Weight: 170 lbs.
Last club: N/A
Birthplace: Elkridge, Maryland
Citizenship: USA
