Philadelphia Union have signed Bolivian defender Jamir Berdecio on loan from the top-flight Bolivian side Oriente Petrolero. The deal for the 21-year-old runs through the 2024 MLS season and includes a purchase option, as announced by the club.
Union sporting director Ernst Tanner expressed excitement about the young talent, noting Berdecio’s impressive play in both the Bolivian Primera División and Bolivia’s U-23 national team. Tanner looks forward to integrating Berdecio into the Union’s system of play and contributing to his development.
Berdecio, primarily a right-back, has made 37 all-competition appearances since debuting for Oriente Petrolero in 2021. His arrival at Philadelphia adds depth to the Union’s defense, alongside Cameroon international Olivier Mbaizo and homegrown standout Nathan Harriel.
Recently called up to Bolivia’s U-23s, Berdecio was ultimately left off head coach Antonio Carlos Zago’s final roster for the 2024 Conmebol Pre-Olympic Tournament.
The Union are set to begin their 2024 season on February 20th against Deportivo Saprissa of Costa Rica in Concacaf Champions Cup action. Their MLS regular-season slate opens four days later, on February 24th, at home against Chicago Fire FC.
Berdecio’s move to the MLS represents a significant step in his career, offering him the opportunity to showcase his skills on a bigger stage and further his development in a competitive league like the MLS. The Philadelphia Union, known for their strong defensive play, will be looking to leverage Berdecio’s talents as they aim for success in the upcoming season.
