Matthew Real


Matthew Joseph Real is an American professional soccer player who plays as a left-back for Colorado Springs Switchbacks in the USL Championship.

Club career

Bethlehem Steel FC

Real signed an amateur deal to play with United Soccer League side Bethlehem Steel FC for their 2016 season. He had committed to play college soccer at Wake Forest University, before opting to sign a professional contract with Bethlehem Steel FC on January 17, 2017.

Philadelphia Union

Real signed a homegrown contract with Bethlehem Steel's MLS parent club Philadelphia Union on January 18, 2018. Real made his MLS debut in the Union's 3–0 loss to the Colorado Rapids on March 31, 2018. Putting forth a solid 75-minute performance, saving a goal on the line to keep the Rapids scoreless heading into the half. In September 2020, Real scored his first goal for the Union as a substitute in a 3–0 victory over New York Red Bulls.
In April 2024, Real joined USL Championship club Colorado Springs Switchbacks on loan for the 2024 season.
Real signed with the Switchbacks on a permanent deal in January 2025.

Personal life

Real was born in the United States to a Brazilian father and an Italian American mother.

Honors

Philadelphia Union
United States U20