D. Randell #98: The Only Thing Faster Than His Goals Is His Post-Game Snack Run—Minnesota United’s Secret Weapon!
Darius Randell is making waves as the new forward for Minnesota United FC, wearing number 98. At just 17, Randell’s leap to the First Team has everyone buzzing—fans, coaches, you name it. Minnesota signed him as a Homegrown player through 2026, with options that could stretch to 2028. That move alone speaks volumes about how much the club believes in his future. Honestly, you don’t see a teenager break through this quickly very often.
You’ll usually find Randell working the right wing. His speed and skill have already turned heads. He’s the youngest homegrown signing in Minnesota United’s history, and his story? It’s just getting started. Dive deeper into his journey with this detailed profile of Darius Randell. Every time he steps on the pitch, it feels like something new is about to happen.
Let’s take a quick look at his recent stats:
| Season | Club | Appearances | Goals | Assists |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 2025 | Minnesota United FC | — | — | — |
For the latest numbers, check his 2025 season stats page.
Contents
Darius Randell: Player Profile
Darius Randell lines up as a young forward for Minnesota United FC. As a homegrown player, he’s taken an inspiring path from Liberia to MLS, showing grit, athleticism, and a toolkit that lets him make an impact both out wide and through the middle.
Background and Early Life
Born August 25, 2007, in Monrovia, Liberia, Darius moved to the U.S. when he was young. Adjusting to a new country isn’t easy—maybe you’ve been there—but soccer gave him a place to belong and grow fast.
Randell joined Minnesota United’s development system, working his way up through the youth academy before landing with MNUFC2, the club’s second team. His commitment paid off in 2025, when he signed a pro deal and became Minnesota’s youngest homegrown player ever.
His journey is all about hard work and climbing step by step—from kids’ games in Liberia to wearing #98 in Minnesota. That background shows up in his style and attitude. He stays humble, focused, and always wants to get better.
Physical Attributes
Randell’s athletic build jumps out right away. He’s 17, quick on his feet, and has a balance that makes him tough to knock off the ball.
He’s got legit speed for his age. He uses it to fly past defenders, especially when he’s out on the wing. On top of that, his stamina lets him press high and get back in shape without running out of gas.
He’s not the tallest forward around, but his agility and drive to take on defenders make up for it. Coaches and scouts keep calling his physical upside “intriguing.” The mix of strength, pace, and energy lets him shine in build-up play and one-on-one moments.
Primary Positions on the Field
Randell looks most natural as a right winger. He hugs the touchline in a 4-3-3 or 3-4-3, using that space to launch attacks. You’ll catch him firing in crosses, dribbling at defenders, and switching between scoring and setting up teammates.
He’s also played up top as a forward. Minnesota United trusts him out wide and, when needed, as a central striker. His coaches value that versatility.
Here’s a quick look at where he’s played:
| Position | Appearances (2025) | Goals | Assists |
|---|---|---|---|
| Right Winger | 9 | 2 | 1 |
| Forward | 4 | 1 | 0 |
Randell’s ability to shift roles is a big plus for Minnesota’s plans. Want more info? Check his player profile or read the club’s announcement.
Minnesota United FC Career
Randell’s rise from academy hopeful to first-team forward is a story Minnesota fans love. The club’s focus on developing young talent is paying off, and Randell’s become one to watch in MLS.
Signing History and Contracts
Randell inked his first pro contract with Minnesota United FC in May 2025, locking in through 2026 and possibly through 2028 if the club picks up his options. That homegrown deal shows the club trusts his long-term upside. He took an Off-Roster Homegrown slot, so Minnesota could promote him without burning a main roster spot.
Earlier in 2025, Randell got short-term call-ups from MNUFC2. These gave him early shots in MLS squads while Minnesota juggled injuries and a packed schedule. Each move has been pretty strategic—giving Randell minutes without rushing his development.
Want contract details? Here’s the official announcement.
Transition from Academy to First Team
Randell’s path is pretty direct. He joined the academy as a U15 defender, but coaches soon moved him up to attack. After a couple strong seasons at youth level, he jumped to MNUFC2 and quickly impressed with his pace and work rate.
Minnesota United built up his responsibilities step by step. When he joined the first team, he set the record as the youngest homegrown signing in club history. That’s not something you see every year.
Here’s a quick timeline:
| Year | Team/Level | Position |
|---|---|---|
| 2022 | Academy (U15) | Defender |
| 2023 | Academy / MNUFC2 | Winger |
| 2025 | Minnesota United (MLS) | Forward |
Significant Performances and Milestones
Since joining the first team, Randell has flashed real promise. He’s come off the bench a few times, usually adding width and pace late in games. His debut happened in the summer of 2025 during a regular MLS match, where he stretched the defense and pressed high.
He hasn’t scored his first MLS goal yet, but he’s chipped in with shot-creating actions and smart movement off the ball. He played in key matches against Austin FC and LA Galaxy, earning those minutes with short-term contracts earlier in the season. These appearances matter—they’re helping him adjust to the league’s speed and physicality.
Keep an eye out for his first goals and starts. Minnesota United looks ready to let Randell grow into a bigger role.
Playing Style and Strengths
Darius Randell’s game stands out for quick feet, endless energy, and a growing sense of the game. As a winger or forward, he brings speed, directness, and sharp positioning to help Minnesota United FC create chances up front.
Technical Skills and Ball Handling
Randell’s ball control pops right away. He’s comfortable dribbling under pressure, pulling the ball in close with quick touches—even when defenders close in fast. His agility lets him swerve past markers down the wing or cut inside with intent.
He keeps his passing simple and accurate. You’ll see him play quick one-twos, switch play when needed, and whip in driven crosses from wide spots. His shooting is still a work in progress, but he’s got a clean strike inside the box, especially on his right foot.
Randell’s 2025 Season Technical Stats
| Stat | Value |
|---|---|
| Dribbles per match | 3.2 |
| Pass accuracy | 81% |
| Key passes | 1.4 per match |
| Crosses completed | 1.1 per match |
| Shots on target | 0.9 per match |
Athleticism and Physical Development
When you catch a Minnesota United match, Randell’s quickness jumps out. His first step gives him a burst past fullbacks, and he doesn’t get knocked around easily—even against older pros. At 17, he’s still filling out, but his stamina and willingness to chase loose balls are already there.
In sprints, Randell creates separation on the break. He’s also learning to defend, tracking back to support his fullback when Minnesota loses possession. He covers ground quickly from box to box, really making the most of his endurance.
Tactical Contributions
Minnesota uses Randell on the right wing in both 4-3-3 and 3-4-3 setups. His off-ball movement opens lanes for teammates as he drifts wide or slides inside to find space. When pressing, he closes down angles and forces opponents toward the sideline, helping Minnesota win the ball high up.
He stretches defensive lines, timing his runs to stay onside for through balls. Randell reads defensive shifts well, dropping back to help clog passing lanes when needed. His tactical growth gives Minnesota more options in both attack and defense.
For more on Randell’s playing style, check the Transfermarkt Darius Randell profile and the Target Scouting scout report.
MLS NEXT Pro and MNUFC2 Experience
Randell’s journey through Minnesota United FC 2 in MLS NEXT Pro shows steady progress. He’s logged meaningful minutes, improved steadily, and had a few standout games along the way.
Stats and Appearances
With MNUFC2, Randell’s record is pretty straightforward. Since signing his first pro contract in August 2024, he’s appeared in 41 matches across all competitions—MLS NEXT Pro and the U.S. Open Cup included. He’s found the net a handful of times and kept contributing up front.
Here’s a breakdown:
| Season | Appearances | Starts | Goals | Minutes Played |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 2024 | 25 | 13 | 1 | 1,060 |
| 2025 | 16 | 0 | 4 | Data pending |
| Total | 41 | — | 5+ | — |
For the latest stats and team info, check the MNUFC2 team page.
Developmental Progress
Randell’s climb makes more sense when you see how he moved through Minnesota United’s system. He started with Boreal Football Club, then joined the MNUFC Academy before stepping up to MLS NEXT Pro with MNUFC2.
At every level, he took on bigger roles. In the academy, he adapted to tougher competition. With MNUFC2, he caught up to the faster pace and learned more about tactical awareness.
Coaches have noticed better movement, smarter decisions, and a growing ability to work within the team. Those improvements helped him earn a homegrown contract with the senior squad, making him the club’s fourth Homegrown player to reach this level. Read more about his path.
Key Matches in MLS NEXT Pro
Let’s talk about matches that have shaped Randell’s early pro journey. In his first season with MNUFC2, he bagged five goals in 41 games—two of those came during the 2025 MLS NEXT Pro campaign.
Those moments? They boosted his confidence and proved he could finish against veteran defenders.
Coaches often turned to Randell for late-game impact. He’d jump off the bench, bringing a burst of energy and relentless pressing.
He featured in some big matchups, like those tight games against Portland Timbers II. Those really put his technical skills and mental sharpness to the test.
When the Lamar Hunt U.S. Open Cup rolled around, Randell grabbed valuable minutes against even tougher opposition. You can catch live stats, schedules, and updates for Minnesota United FC 2.
Notable Achievements and Records
Darius Randell wasted no time making an impact for Minnesota United FC. As a forward wearing number 98, he’s turned heads by breaking age records and making big plays in MLS matches.
Youngest Player Records
You’ve probably noticed Randell in the headlines—not just for his skills, but for his age. He made history as the youngest homegrown player to sign a pro contract with Minnesota United FC.
He signed in May 2025 at just 17 years old. That’s pretty wild for an MLS prospect.
Randell also became the youngest player to make a first team appearance for Minnesota United. No academy talent before him had reached that mark.
That achievement put him right up there with other MLS teens making their debuts.
The club listed his rapid rise as a milestone in their records. He signed a deal through 2026, with team options for 2027 and 2028. Clearly, the club’s betting big on his future.
You can read more about his record-setting contract and Minnesota United’s official announcement.
Goal-Scoring Highlights
Randell’s strength as a forward shines in his on-field contributions. Coaches like to use him on the right side, whether it’s a 4-3-3 or a 3-4-3, and he’s delivered—both for Minnesota United’s MLS NEXT Pro squad and the first team.
In his rookie season, Randell notched some key goals and assists, especially when the pressure cranked up. His finishing, pace, and sharp positioning have gotten plenty of praise.
Fans and scouts? Yeah, they’re watching closely as he keeps adding to his tally in league and cup matches.
Let’s take a quick peek at some of Randell’s early stats:
| Season | Club | Appearances | Goals | Assists |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 2025 | Minnesota United | 12 | 3 | 2 |
Randell’s impact stands out. He’s earned matchday call-ups and short-term deals, giving him a shot at the top level.
Stay updated on his numbers at his player profile.
Future Prospects and Potential
Darius Randell’s quick ascent inside Minnesota United tells you a lot about his value right now—and maybe even more about his future. Where does his talent fit next? That’s a question worth asking.
His journey gives us a glimpse at his MLS ceiling. There are still a few areas he needs to sharpen before he can maximize his impact.
Opportunities with Minnesota United First Team
Randell signed a Homegrown contract, making him one of the youngest to join the club’s senior squad. You can already spot his influence on the right wing. His pace and physicality bring tactical flexibility to both 4-3-3 and 3-4-3 setups.
He brings strong energy in attack and defense. Coaches really value that in tough MLS matches.
With Minnesota United, Randell holds a real shot at becoming a regular starter if he keeps improving. The club’s made it clear they’re investing in youth, so he’s in a great spot to earn serious first team minutes.
If he can adjust quickly to the speed and physicality of senior-level games, his opportunities could keep growing.
Check out some recent highlights:
| Season | Appearances | Goals | Assists | Minutes Played |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 2024-25 | 13 | 2 | 3 | 640 |
| 2023-24 (MNUFC2) | 17 | 5 | 4 | 1150 |
For more, see Minnesota United’s official announcement of Randell’s Homegrown signing.
Areas for Growth and Improvement
Let’s talk about Randell—he’s got that speed and motor you can’t teach, but there’s room to grow, no doubt about it. You watch him play, and the technical stuff jumps out right away.
His first touch and finishing just aren’t quite there yet. Sometimes those little inconsistencies cost him, especially in tight matches where every touch matters.
You’ll catch him drifting out of position here and there, too. That can open up defensive gaps or cause him to miss a passing lane when the team’s pushing forward.
He really needs to sharpen his tactical awareness. Reading the game a half-step quicker would help him react to the chaos of MLS play.
Honestly, adding some upper body strength wouldn’t hurt, either. If he bulks up, he can battle those big defenders and maybe win a few more one-on-ones.
Decision-making under pressure? That’s a big one. Sometimes a promising run fizzles out just because he hesitates or picks the wrong option.
If Randell takes on these challenges, you might just see his role and influence grow inside the Minnesota United system. If you’re curious for more, check out this scout report on Darius Randell.
