DC United Signs Ex-RSL Academy Star Hezarkhani to Homegrown Deal

WASHINGTON (Day.News) — DC United bolstered its roster Monday with the signing of 18-year-old midfielder Aiden Hezarkhani to a homegrown contract, as first reported by WTOP. Born June 28, 2007, in Irvine, California, the 5-foot-10 forward rose through Real Salt Lake's academy, thriving with Real Monarchs in 2024 by logging 21 appearances, 19 starts, six goals and four assists. He made his MLS debut for RSL against LA Galaxy in May 2025, played 45 minutes versus DC United in June 2025, earned his first MLS start February 21, 2026, against Vancouver Whitecaps FC, and scored March 7, 2026.

Hezarkhani's poise, vision and work rate shone early in RSL's 2026 season, filling in for injured star Diego Luna and impressing coach Pablo Mastroeni during 2024 preseason trips to Portugal and Santa Clara. His move to DC United, Audi Field's hometown club in Southwest Washington, injects proven MLS experience into a squad aiming to climb Eastern Conference standings. The homegrown deal underscores DC United's commitment to nurturing talent amid the vibrant DMV soccer scene.

At Buzzard Point, where DC United draws passionate crowds from across the District, Hezarkhani joins a midfield seeking dynamism. His professional debut goal came May 8, 2024, against Houston Dynamo 2, signaling the potential impact at Audi Field. As the Black-and-Red prepare for upcoming MLS matches, the 18-year-old's arrival excites supporters from Capitol Hill to Anacostia.