Vancouver Whitecaps FC announced the signing of defender Daniel Russo to a Whitecaps FC 2 (WFC2) contract in MLS NEXT Pro. The 23-year-old is signed through the 2025 season, with a club option for 2026.
Russo joins WFC2 following a stint with Atlanta United 2 during the 2024 MLS NEXT Pro campaign, where he made two appearances, including one start. The Jackson, New Jersey native is known for his versatility and work rate, bringing both collegiate and professional experience to the Whitecaps' development squad.
Player Profile: Daniel Russo
- Position: Defender
- Height: 5’11”
- Weight: 165 lbs
- Date of Birth: March 24, 2002
- Hometown: Jackson, New Jersey
- Nationality: United States
- Player Status: Domestic
- Former Club: Atlanta United 2 (2023–2024)
- Youth Academy: New York Red Bulls
Collegiate Career at University of Notre Dame
Before turning pro, Russo had an impactful four-year career at the University of Notre Dame, where he primarily featured as a winger. In his collegiate debut season, he tallied one goal and one assist in 13 appearances. He followed that up with an impressive sophomore year, scoring three goals and providing four assists in 24 matches.
Russo’s breakout came in his junior year in 2022, when he led the team in scoring with six goals and 16 total points, including a memorable hat trick in a comeback win over Michigan.
In his final season, Russo logged a career-high 1,444 minutes, scoring four goals and helping Notre Dame reach the College Cup Final. He started every match in their NCAA Tournament run and concluded his college career with 14 goals and 11 assists.
Youth Development
Russo played his high school soccer at Jackson Memorial and was a standout in the New York Red Bulls Academy, one of Major League Soccer’s most respected youth systems.
With his well-rounded experience and high ceiling, Daniel Russo adds depth and potential to a rising WFC2 squad in MLS NEXT Pro.
