D. Borso Chicago Fire FC Midfielder 27: Key Player Profile and Recent Performance Review
Dylan Borso has burst onto the scene as a promising young midfielder for Chicago Fire FC. He just signed a homegrown contract, and let me tell you, fans and coaches are buzzing. Wearing the number 27, Borso brings a mix of skill and raw energy. He really stands out, whether you’re watching him in the academy or remembering his college highlights.
People in Chicago have kept a close eye on Borso since he made waves at Wake Forest. He landed on the ACC All-Freshman Team, which is no small feat. His rise from local kid to pro shows the Fire’s academy is doing something right, and honestly, supporters have every reason to stay locked in as this MLS season heats up.
If you’re wondering about his current impact, the stats tell a pretty good story:
| Name | Club | Position | Number | Age | Contract Years |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Dylan Borso | Chicago Fire FC | Midfielder | 27 | 19 | 2024-2027 (with 2028-2029 option) |
Want more background? Here’s the official announcement about Borso’s signing.
Contents
Profile of D. Borso
Dylan Borso is a young midfielder and a real homegrown talent for Chicago Fire FC. He rocks the number 27 and, honestly, his determination and skill make him a fun watch.
Personal Background
Borso grew up right here in Chicago, picking up the game in local youth leagues. He started young, and you can tell he spent years learning in the city’s lively soccer scene.
He joined the Chicago Fire Academy early on. From there, he kept climbing, moving through each level and sharpening his game. Coaches and teammates talk about his work rate and how sharp he is in the midfield. That’s what sets him apart from other prospects.
He often credits his family and community for pushing him this far. Off the field, he’s pretty quiet—just focused on training and school.
Date Of Birth And Height
Dylan Borso was born June 2, 2006. He’s just 19 as of 2025, but he’s already locked in a first-team contract. That says a lot about what the club thinks of his upside.
He’s got a solid, athletic frame for a midfielder. The exact numbers? They vary a bit depending on where you look. But he plays like a guy who wins his share of duels and moves the ball with confidence.
| Attribute | Value |
|---|---|
| Date of Birth | June 2, 2006 |
| Age | 19 years old |
| Position | Midfielder |
| Jersey Number | 27 |
His size and technical skill let him cover ground and play that box-to-box role for Chicago Fire.
Chicago Native
As a Chicago native, Borso carries the city’s flag every time he steps on the pitch. He played for the Fire Academy from U-13 through U-19, then made the jump to Chicago Fire II.
His move up to the main squad really highlights the club’s commitment to local players. Fans love seeing someone from their own backyard make it. Maybe he’ll inspire the next wave of academy kids.
You can track Borso’s journey on his Chicago Fire FC profile or check his stats on Transfermarkt. He’s still got plenty to prove, but he’s carrying that hometown pride.
Chicago Fire FC Career
Borso has climbed from the Fire Academy to the first team. He played big minutes for Chicago Fire II and just signed a homegrown contract.
Pathway Through Academy
Borso’s roots in Chicago soccer run deep. He joined the Fire Academy young, working his way up from U-13 to U-19. His work ethic and technical ability set him apart.
Coaches in the academy focused on tactics and discipline. Borso soaked it up. His strong showings earned him time with Chicago Fire II in MLS NEXT Pro. He got real game experience against older, tougher players.
That training and match experience sharpened his passing, vision, and control. He became a regular for academy showcases and youth tournaments.
Transition To First Team
After he impressed with the academy and Fire II, Borso caught the attention of the first team staff. The club watched him for a few seasons, noting how he handled different midfield roles. By late 2024, he was training with the senior squad.
He made the jump to MLS speed and physicality pretty smoothly. Teammates and coaches pointed out his communication and readiness at practice. That ability to handle pressure made him a natural pick for first team minutes.
Key Stats:
| Team | Appearances | Goals | Assists |
|---|---|---|---|
| Chicago Fire II | 18 | 2 | 5 |
| Chicago Fire FC | 3 | 0 | 0 |
His first-team debut was a big moment, showing the club trusts him and he’s ready to contribute.
Homegrown Player Contract
In December 2024, Chicago Fire FC signed Borso to a homegrown contract through 2027, with options for 2028 and 2029. That’s a clear nod to his local roots and his potential.
With the homegrown player deal, Borso fills a special roster spot reserved for academy products. That honors his years with the Fire and keeps his future tied to the club.
The Fire see Borso as a long-term piece. They want him adding depth and creativity in midfield, and maybe even guiding the next crop of academy kids. It fits the club’s push to build from within.
Role As Midfielder
Borso’s got a tough job for Chicago Fire FC. He brings tactical smarts, link-up play, and a nose for attacking moments. That’s exactly what the midfield needs.
Playing Style
He’s known for his cool head on the ball and good use of open space. Borso keeps it simple—short, crisp passes to keep the ball moving and control the tempo. When he sees an opening, he’ll try a line-breaking pass or a clever through-ball.
Off the ball, he stays switched on, cutting off passing lanes. That discipline helps the team flip from defense to attack. Borso’s not flashy, but his steady decisions keep things calm in the middle, especially when the pressure ramps up.
He’s got a strong left foot, which helps him drift into attacking spots. He doesn’t shoot a ton, but he creates space and supports forwards, pushing the play into dangerous areas. Consistency and vision really define his game.
Position Responsibilities
As an attacking midfielder, Borso has a lot on his plate. He links defense to attack, often dropping deep to pick up the ball and start the play. The team trusts him because he rarely gives the ball away in tight spaces.
He supports the striker, finding pockets between defenders and midfielders. That movement opens up options for teammates near the box. Sometimes he’ll drift out wide to stretch the defense, or drop back to help win loose balls.
Borso handles set pieces too, whipping in corners or free kicks with that left foot. Offensively, he reads the game and times his runs well. Defensively, he presses and tracks back, helping stop counterattacks before they start.
Professional Experience
Borso signed with Chicago Fire FC in December 2024 and holds a homegrown contract through 2027. Before that, he worked his way up through the Fire’s youth teams and got minutes with Chicago Fire II in MLS NEXT Pro.
At Wake Forest, Borso made the ACC All-Freshman Team in 2024. That’s a big-time honor and shows he was making noise even as a college rookie. He’s actually the 12th Wake Forest player under Coach Bobby Muuss to land a homegrown deal.
Here’s a look at his pro stats with the Fire as of summer 2025:
| Season | Matches Played | Goals | Assists | Minutes Played |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 2025 | 8 | 0 | 1 | 420 |
He’s getting more minutes and taking on bigger roles as the season goes on.
Collegiate Career at Wake Forest
Borso wasted no time making an impression as a central midfielder at Wake Forest. He helped the Demon Deacons keep their reputation as one of college soccer’s top programs. In his freshman year, he chipped in with goals and assists, coming up big in tournament matches. That made him one of the most reliable new faces on the squad.
Freshman Season Achievements
He arrived at Wake Forest as a top prospect out of the Fire academy. People were already talking about him before the season started—he picked up pre-season freshman All-American honors. Once games kicked off, Borso jumped right into a starting midfield role. He helped out on both ends, defending and sparking attacks.
Wake Forest made the NCAA tournament, and Borso kept his starting spot on a deep roster. Coaches loved his calm under pressure, vision, and maturity—rare traits for a freshman in the ACC. He played with a level of athleticism and decision-making that made it tough to take him off the field.
Here’s what he accomplished as a freshman:
- Started most regular season and post-season games
- Named to the ACC All-Freshman Team
- Helped Wake Forest go deep in the NCAA tournament
Goals And Assists
Borso’s freshman stats were impressive for a first-year Division I midfielder. He finished with four goals and four assists, showing he can score and set up teammates.
He played box-to-box, joining attacks from deep and connecting defense to the forwards. His knack for creating and finishing made him a real asset on the stat sheet.
Check out his key numbers from the season:
| Stat | Total |
|---|---|
| Goals | 4 |
| Assists | 4 |
| Matches Played | 21 |
| Matches Started | 18 |
A few of those assists came at clutch moments in conference play, and every goal helped the Demon Deacons notch wins.
Standout Performances
Borso’s freshman year at Wake Forest? Oh, it had some real highlight moments. When Wake Forest faced top-25 ACC teams, Borso didn’t shy away—he jumped right in and often took control from the midfield.
In a wild NCAA tournament match, Borso netted a crucial goal that pushed Wake Forest through to the next round. Coaches and commentators couldn’t help but notice how he handled pressure-packed situations.
He played a massive role in a late-season conference showdown, notching an assist and keeping the ball moving to lock in a key win. These moments really put him on the map as one of the nation’s most promising young midfielders. If you want more details, check out the Wake Forest Athletics site.
Player Development Pathway
Dylan Borso’s journey through the Chicago Fire academy really shows what a strong youth system can do. You see the difference when a club invests in the right age groups, support, and real opportunities for young players.
Youth Journey From U-13 to U-19
Borso kicked things off at the U-13 level with the Chicago Fire academy. Every year, he moved up a notch. That steady climb gave him a foundation in technical skills and, maybe more importantly, discipline.
He faced tougher competition and coaches that demanded more at every step. By the time he hit U-17, he started regularly and started to find his voice as a leader.
At U-19, he’d already played against some of the best young talents in the region. The academy kept him training and playing consistently, which really shaped his soccer IQ and got him ready for Chicago Fire II and, eventually, the senior team.
Academy Progression Table
| Age Group | Years Played | Role |
|---|---|---|
| U-13 | 1 | Squad Player |
| U-15 | 2 | Rotational |
| U-17 | 2 | Starter |
| U-19 | 2 | Leadership |
Talented Young Players
Chicago Fire’s academy is all about turning raw potential into actual performance. Borso fits that mold perfectly. He showed flashes of skill early on, but his work ethic and willingness to take feedback really set him apart.
Fighting for a spot in every age group pushed him to adapt. He learned to play multiple midfield roles and, at times, trained with older players to match their speed and decision-making.
The club emphasizes individualized growth, so players like Borso get daily feedback and real chances to earn their spot. That’s how they get ready for MLS NEXT Pro and, if they keep delivering, first team contracts.
Significance Of Academy System
The academy doesn’t just help one player—it builds a whole pathway. For Borso, it meant a steady environment and a clear route to the pros.
Chicago Fire scouts local talent early, giving young guys access to top coaches and facilities. That helps bridge the gap from youth soccer to the pro game, letting players stay in a familiar place while learning what’s expected at the next level.
With a strong academy, the club can sign homegrown players who already get the culture and tactics. Borso’s homegrown contract is proof. This strategy lifts both the players and the club, and it really highlights why scouting and support at every age group—from U-13 to U-19—matters.
Notable Matches And Milestones
Dylan Borso’s jump from college soccer to Major League Soccer has had its share of big moments. His early run-outs with Chicago Fire FC and solid preseason showings have started to shape his reputation as a young midfielder to watch.
MLS Debut And Key Moments
Borso made his MLS debut for Chicago Fire FC right after inking that Homegrown contract. That’s a huge step for any player fresh out of college. In his first match, Borso impressed everyone with his coolness on the ball and crisp passing.
He often put himself in the right spots to intercept passes and push the play forward. Facing veteran MLS midfielders, Borso showed he could handle the pressure and keep possession in tight spots.
Fans and coaches took notice, especially when he started matches and logged big minutes during a tough stretch in the regular season. Those games boosted his confidence and earned him trust from teammates.
Key MLS debut stats:
| Match | Minutes Played | Pass Accuracy | Key Passes | Tackles |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Debut | 62 | 85% | 1 | 3 |
| Second | 74 | 82% | 2 | 2 |
Borso’s early showings set the tone for what’s to come. His determination and technical skills are already making a difference at the pro level.
Preseason And Standout Games
During preseason, Borso trained and played with the first team. Those sessions and friendlies helped him get comfortable with MLS play.
Coaches pointed out his work ethic and tactical smarts. He got into several preseason matches, picked up an assist, and really showed he could control the midfield.
In one game against a big-name opponent, Borso’s passing range and calmness under pressure stood out. He helped build attacks and always hustled back to defend.
Observers noticed his willingness to adapt to different systems and fight for a starting spot, even as a teenager. Chicago Fire’s announcement of Borso’s Homegrown signing shows just how much those preseason performances mattered for his place in the squad.
Key Teammates And Comparisons
Dylan Borso’s role as a midfielder has grown thanks to time spent with both veterans and the club’s development squads. His improvement is tied closely to those relationships and his path through the academy.
Brian Gutiérrez And David Poreba
Brian Gutiérrez brings creativity and vision to Chicago Fire FC’s midfield. He’s a big reason the attack clicks, linking up with teammates and moving the ball quickly.
David Poreba, another young midfielder, brings work rate and connects defense to attack. He covers a ton of ground and helps keep things moving.
When Borso lines up with Gutiérrez and Poreba, he tends to play with more energy and confidence. The team’s passing and attacking chances get a real boost from Gutiérrez’s flair and Poreba’s movement. Their chemistry is key when breaking down stubborn defenses.
| Player | Matches Played | Goals | Assists | Passing Accuracy |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Brian Gutiérrez | 30 | 4 | 7 | 82% |
| David Poreba | 18 | 1 | 3 | 78% |
| Dylan Borso | 12 | 1 | 2 | 80% |
Fire II And Development Squad
Before joining the first team, Borso climbed through the Chicago Fire academy and then Fire II, the club’s MLS NEXT Pro squad. Those years gave him a mix of games against up-and-comers and seasoned pros, testing his tactical sense and mental toughness.
With Fire II, Borso played in a system that focused on ball control and quick transitions. That setup helped him sharpen his positioning and make better decisions under pressure.
Plenty of first-team guys, like Brian Gutiérrez, took the same route. The environment at Fire II made the jump to MLS a little less daunting for Borso and others. Want details? Check out the club’s MLS NEXT Pro news.
League And Club Context
Chicago Fire FC, one of the founding MLS clubs, keeps its eyes on developing young talent and climbing the standings. The team’s future depends on both club dynamics and the always-tough Eastern Conference.
Chicago Fire FC In MLS
Since 2020, Chicago Fire FC has played home games at Soldier Field. The club tries to balance tradition with a rebuild, putting real effort into its youth pipeline and moving players like Dylan Borso up to the first team.
Borso’s homegrown deal is part of a bigger plan to focus on local talent and keep the roster stable. Recent seasons brought coaching changes and roster shakeups, all aimed at ending a playoff drought and finding that elusive team identity.
Here’s a quick look at how the club has done lately:
| Season | Points | Eastern Conf. Finish | Goals Scored | Playoff Result |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 2023 | 40 | 13th | 38 | Missed Playoffs |
| 2024 | 44 | 10th | 41 | Missed Playoffs |
Management keeps betting on young midfielders like Borso, hoping they can help Chicago break through and grab a playoff spot.
Eastern Conference Landscape
The Eastern Conference? It’s a gauntlet. Clubs like Philadelphia Union, Columbus Crew, and FC Cincinnati set a high bar. If you want to make the postseason, you have to finish top 9, and there’s barely any room for slip-ups.
Teams near the playoff line shuffle positions right up to the final weeks. Sometimes, just a game or two decides who’s in and who’s out. Chicago faces all kinds of opponents—high-press from New York Red Bulls, possession play from Atlanta United. Consistency is everything if you want a shot at the playoffs.
Chicago’s climb up the standings might come down to how fast new players adjust to MLS speed and physicality. Every point feels huge, and the standings can flip in a heartbeat.
Audi MLS Cup Playoffs Ambitions
The Audi MLS Cup Playoffs? That’s the big prize for every MLS club dreaming of a title. For Chicago Fire FC, making the playoffs is both a short-term goal and a sign the rebuild is working.
Chicago last made the postseason in 2017. Since then, the fans have been hungry for more. Earning a spot means grinding through 34 matches, picking up points on the road, and getting results at home in front of the Soldier Field faithful.
Young players like Borso are under the spotlight—homegrown guys are supposed to bring energy and flexibility when the pressure’s on. If Chicago can get back to the postseason, it’ll prove the investments in youth and coaching are paying off. The mission is clear: string together results, keep the squad healthy, and finally break that playoff drought.
Future Prospects
Dylan Borso’s rise from academy standout to Chicago Fire FC midfielder sets the bar high. His progress as a homegrown player and first team selection show he’s got the tools to help shape the club’s future.
Outlook For 2027 Season
Let’s talk about Dylan Borso, folks—just 19 years old and already inked to a deal through 2027. Chicago Fire FC really put their faith in this kid, betting on his growth and his ability to make a splash with the senior squad.
Chicago Fire FC loves to tap into that homegrown pipeline, right? They count on young guys like Borso for energy, flexibility, and that all-important connection with the fans.
Looking ahead to 2027, the expectation is clear: Borso’s going to see more time in central midfield. His work with Chicago Fire II and those steady performances at Wake Forest? Yeah, those tell us he’ll bring composure and discipline when he’s got the ball at his feet.
The club’s midfield isn’t exactly packed, so Borso has a real shot to earn starts if he keeps trending upward. If you’ve watched his recent games, you know what I mean.
Key stats for Dylan Borso (2024-2025):
| Stat | Value |
|---|---|
| Appearances | 18 |
| Goals | 2 |
| Assists | 3 |
| Pass Accuracy | 83% |
| Tackles per game | 2.1 |
Borso still needs to step up his defensive presence and show he can play a few different roles. If he picks up the league’s physical side fast, I wouldn’t be surprised to see him as a regular by the end of 2027.
He’s focusing on daily training, soaking up advice from the veterans, and—let’s be honest—just hoping to avoid the injury bug.
Expected Impact In 2025 MLS SuperDraft
Now, here’s the twist: Borso’s a homegrown signing, so you won’t see him in the 2025 MLS SuperDraft. Still, his rise sets a pretty high bar for academy kids and draft hopefuls coming up next season.
Teams always want midfielders who are ready to go. Borso’s journey really shows the value of developing talent inside your own club instead of just relying on the draft.
Other clubs are going to look at how Chicago Fire brought him up from the academy to the first team. They might try to copy that blueprint for connecting youth and senior soccer.
Expect to see other midfielders in the SuperDraft trying to match Borso’s impact. Even though he’s not in the draft, his presence next season could shake up how teams scout and trust young American midfielders.
Recognition And Honors
Let’s run through Borso’s highlights—this guy’s picked up some serious recognition both in college and as a pro. He’s got national awards, postseason moments, and a knack for stepping up when it counts.
National and Conference Accolades
Borso turned heads right away at Wake Forest. As a freshman in 2024, he landed on the ACC All-Freshman Team. Coaches and analysts saw something special in his game.
During his college run, Borso faced top competition in the ACC, one of the toughest conferences out there. Picking up individual honors in that league? That’s no joke.
He kept getting noticed as he played both league and non-league matches. Scouts and coaches praised his technical skills and relentless work rate. Those qualities helped him earn a pro contract with Chicago Fire FC, making him the club’s 25th Homegrown signing.
| Year | Honor | Team |
|---|---|---|
| 2024 | ACC All-Freshman Team | Wake Forest |
NCAA Tournament Success
Borso didn’t just collect regular season awards. He played a huge role in Wake Forest’s runs through the NCAA Tournament. In midfield, he helped control the pace, break up attacks, and set the tone for his teammates.
Wake Forest didn’t snag a national title while he was there, but Borso regularly squared off against the best teams on the biggest stage. He handled the pressure and stayed disciplined, which really caught the eye of coaches and scouts.
He logged big minutes in the postseason, guiding Wake Forest through some nail-biters. Those games built his mental toughness—something Chicago Fire noticed before offering him that homegrown deal.
Golden Goal Achievements
Here’s something you can’t teach: clutch. Borso showed a real knack for coming through in tight moments during college. He delivered in games decided by a golden goal—those sudden-death overtime winners.
In several high-stakes matches, Borso either scored or set up those critical goals. His quick thinking near the box and calm under pressure made him a go-to guy when the stakes were highest.
Coaches leaned on him for creativity late in games and trusted his leadership in crunch time. Those moments just added to his reputation as a midfielder who could tip the scales when it mattered.
Want more on his pro journey? Check out this profile on Borso’s move to Chicago Fire FC.
International And External Connections
Borso’s soccer story isn’t just about the Fire. He’s crossed paths with different teams, coaches, and player groups outside the club. His network reaches beyond Chicago, opening doors on bigger stages.
Citizenship And Eligibility
Born in Chicago, Illinois, Borso holds U.S. citizenship. That makes him eligible for U.S. national teams at various age levels.
People have mentioned him in youth national team camp discussions, though he hasn’t made a senior appearance yet. He’s got a shot to be scouted by coaches like Gregg Berhalter, who often keep tabs on rising MLS talent.
He doesn’t have dual citizenship, as far as we know. As a homegrown player, he fits league and national roster rules, which could affect future selections or transfers.
Notable Opponents Faced
Borso climbed through the Chicago Fire academy, facing top youth squads from clubs like Philadelphia Union, Colorado Rapids, and D.C. United. Those matches sharpened his technical skills and soccer IQ.
He also battled FC Cincinnati and New York City FC youth teams in MLS NEXT Pro. These games exposed him to different playing styles, helping him adapt quickly.
Here’s a look at some of the top opposition he’s faced:
| Opponent Club | Level | Notable Event |
|---|---|---|
| Philadelphia Union | MLS Academy | U17 Regional Final |
| Colorado Rapids | MLS NEXT Pro | 2024 Regular Season |
| D.C. United | MLS Academy | U19 National Playoff |
| FC Cincinnati | MLS NEXT Pro | Debut Season |
| New York City FC | MLS NEXT Pro | Summer Showcase |
Coaching And Mentorship
Let’s talk about Borso’s journey—he really got a boost by working with respected coaches, starting right in the Chicago Fire’s youth programs.
He caught the eye of college recruiters from places like Clemson and Syracuse. Both schools have a real reputation for building strong soccer teams and, honestly, their coaching staffs know what they’re doing.
Inside the Chicago Fire academy, mentors made a big difference. They helped push him forward.
When Borso moved up to the first team, he leaned on senior teammates and coaching staff. These folks brought serious MLS and even international experience, which, let’s be honest, is huge for a young player.
Now, with Gregg Berhalter leading the USMNT, Borso might find himself getting advice and tactical feedback at the national level. If he lands a spot in future youth or senior camps, that’s a whole new layer of mentorship.
All these coaches and mentors—they’re not just teaching him soccer tactics. They’re shaping how he thinks about the game, and you can see it in the way he plays.
