Dynamo Sign 16-Year-Old Homegrown Player Mattheo Dimareli

The Houston native joins the MLS club's first team on a contract through 2027.

Apr. 17, 2026 at 4:22pm

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A fragmented, geometric painting in bold colors depicting the dynamic movements of a young soccer player, conveying the energy and potential of a homegrown talent.A rising star's dynamic energy and potential is captured in a cubist-inspired illustration, reflecting the Dynamo's commitment to developing homegrown talent.Houston Today

The Houston Dynamo have signed 16-year-old forward Mattheo Dimareli as a homegrown player. Dimareli, a product of the Dynamo Academy, has signed an MLS Next Pro contract through June 2027 and will join the Dynamo's first team on an MLS contract in July 2027.

Why it matters

The signing of Dimareli as a homegrown player represents the Dynamo's commitment to developing local talent and providing opportunities for young players to progress through the club's pathway system. Dimareli's dual-national eligibility also highlights the competitive landscape for top youth prospects in the region.

The details

Dimareli has played in 48 games for Dynamo 2 over the past three seasons, recording seven goals and six assists. The forward's new deal is guaranteed through the 2027-28 season, with options in each of the following three seasons through 2030-31.

  • Dimareli signed with the Dynamo on April 17, 2026.
  • His MLS Next Pro contract runs through June 2027.
  • Dimareli will join the Dynamo's first team on an MLS contract in July 2027.

The players

Mattheo Dimareli

A 16-year-old forward from Houston who is a product of the Dynamo Academy and has signed a homegrown player contract with the club.

Pat Onstad

The president of soccer operations for the Houston Dynamo, who praised Dimareli's development and the club's commitment to providing opportunities for young players.

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What they’re saying

“Mattheo is a promising young attacker who has made an impact in our organization and at the international level with U.S. and Mexico. Our goal is, and will always be, to provide unique, high-level opportunities to the young players in our Club, and Mattheo has made the most of those opportunities, advancing through our pathway system and leaving a strong mark with the first team during training sessions and this year's preseason.”

— Pat Onstad, President of Soccer Operations, Houston Dynamo

What’s next

Dimareli will continue to train with the Dynamo's first team and play for Dynamo 2 in the MLS Next Pro league as he prepares to join the MLS squad in July 2027.

The takeaway

The Dynamo's signing of the 16-year-old Dimareli as a homegrown player demonstrates the club's commitment to developing local talent and providing a clear pathway for young players to reach the first team. Dimareli's dual-national eligibility also highlights the competitive landscape for top youth prospects in the region.