KC Reporter

Sporting Kansas City II has signed Aiden Benitez, a forward from the Sporting Kansas City Academy, to an MLS NEXT Pro amateur contract. This agreement allows Benitez to maintain his NCAA eligibility while being available for selection in the team's upcoming match against Austin FC II. The game is scheduled for Friday at Parmer Field in Austin, Texas.

Benitez joined the Sporting Kansas City Academy in 2022 and has played with both the U-17 and U-18 teams. He has participated in several notable MLS NEXT events, including three Generation adidas Cups and the 2024 MLS NEXT Cup Playoffs. His contributions were significant in helping the U-17 team reach the GA Cup Quarterfinals last year. Benitez, originally from Indiana, has also been called up to national teams for Mexico's U-16s and El Salvador's U-20s.

In other news from Sporting KC II, forward Massud Habibullah has left the club due to personal reasons after making seven appearances.

Head coach Istvan Urbanyi will lead his team on Friday as they face Austin FC II. The match starts at 7:30 p.m. CT and can be viewed live on MLS Season Pass via Apple TV.

The recent transactions include signing Aiden Benitez to an amateur contract and Massud Habibullah's departure from the club.