OFFICIAL: Union Loan Brandan Craig to Austin FC

The Philadelphia Union announced today that they have loaned homegrown talent Brandan Craig to Austin FC for the remainder of the 2023 MLS season.

Union loans Craig to Austin FC

Philadelphia will acquire Austin’s natural third-round pick in the 2024 MLS SuperDraft and up to $125,000 in GAM (General Allocation Money) in return. The General Allocation Money that Philly is receiving is dependent on performance-based incentives.

Much Needed Minutes

? Brandan Craig ➡️ Austin FC

The Homegrown will join Austin for the remainder of the 2023 season. The Union will receive a pick in the 2024 MLS SuperDraft and up to $125,000 in 2024 GAM.

Good luck in Austin, BC!

? https://t.co/oK4A8NORuo #DOOP pic.twitter.com/xUq6M3oBsS
— Philadelphia Union (@PhilaUnion) July 5, 2023

The move to Austin FC for Craig will open up some playing time for the 19 year old, as the Texas based club needed some depth in that area. Jakob Glesnes, Jack Elliott, and Damion Lowe have proven their importance in the Starting XI, so Craig has not received many minutes on the pitch during the 2023 MLS season. Also, when one of the main three center backs are not available to play, manager Jim Curtin either switches the formation from a 3-5-2 to the 4-4-2 Diamond or decides to use one of Kai Wagner or Nate Harriel in the CB spot.

Craig has shown his talents when playing for the U-20 USMNT, playing every single minute in the U-20 World Cup. In 5 matches, the USMNT defense only conceded a total of 2 goals, with both being in the quarterfinal loss to Uruguay.

All in all, this is a great move that will benefit both clubs. Austin FC will get some much-needed CB depth for the season, and Philly will be able to see Craig get some important minutes in the MLS, as he continues to develop. Also, this is a huge opportunity for Craig as he looks to show his talents and prove that he could be the next important piece in the Union’s top defense.