Atlanta United 2 today announced the signing of defender Matthew Edwards. He joins after playing the last three seasons at the University of North Carolina in Chapel Hill. Prior to joining Tar Heels, Edwards played in Atlanta United’s Academy. Edwards is signed through the 2024 MLS NEXT Pro season.
Edwards joined the Atlanta United Academy in 2019 at the U-17 level. The versatile defender served as captain of the U-19 side and got a taste of professional soccer during the 2020 USL Championship season when he made eight appearances for ATL UTD 2. Edwards then chose to sign a letter of intent to attend the University of North Carolina.
With the Tar Heels, the Apex, N.C. native played in four matches during his freshman campaign. That playing time increased the following season, when Edwards played and started in all 21 matches for UNC. He was a mainstay on the backline that produced eight clean sheets. Edwards backed up that season with another strong performance in 2023. He played in 18 matches, including 16 starts, and recorded two assists. He helped the Tar Heels make a run to the ACC Tournament Final and the NCAA Tournament Quarterfinals.
Player Profile
Name: Matthew “Matt” Edwards
Position: Defender
Class: Junior
Height: 6-0
Birthdate: February 17, 2003 (20)
Birthplace: Apex, North Carolina
Citizenship: United States
Transaction: Atlanta United 2 signs Matthew Edwards for the 2024 MLS NEXT Pro season.
Atlanta United 2 Roster (as of Dec. 22, 2023)
Goalkeeper (1): John Berner
Defender (1): Matthew Edwards
Midfielders (8): Luke Brennan, Alan Carleton, Matías Gallardo, Nick Firmino, Noble Okello, Adyn Torres*, Jonantan Villal, Jacob Williams
Forwards (1): Karim Tmimi
* Becomes a First Team deal effective Jan. 1, 2024
