MORGANTOWN — West Virginia men’s soccer’s star forward has officially signed a contract to play in Major League Soccer.
Forward Marcus Caldeira has signed a one-year contract with Minnesota United, with club options for the Sprint Season 2027, 2027-28 and 2028-29 seasons, after he was selected with the 20th overall pick by MNUFC in the 2024 MLS SuperDraft. The move is still pending receipt of his P-1 Visa.
“We’re excited to welcome Marcus to our club and look forward to seeing him continue his development while adding depth and competition to our team this season,” said MNUFC Chief Soccer Officer and Sporting Director Khaled El-Ahmad.
Caldeira had an impressive four years for the Mountaineers, starting back in 2022. Over his four years with WVU, Caldeira played in 84 games (77 starts), totaling 5,956 minutes, while scoring 42 goals and 15 assists. His 42 goals is second all-time in Mountaineer history.
Last season, Caldeira had arguably his best season. He scored a career-high 14 goals, leading the Sun Belt Conference. Caldeira also led the conference with 35 points, earning him the Sun Belt Player of the Year.
Caldeira showed up when it mattered most. He was fourth in the nation with six game-winning goals and had three goals in two matchups with in-state rival Marshall. Caldeira also had a hat-trick in the first round of the NCAA Tournament over St. John’s.
In 2024, he had another strong season and had 11 goals, making the All-Sun Belt second team. He helped WVU to the Sun Belt Conference Championship. Caldeira led the Sun Belt and ranked 16th in the nation with 12 goals, earning United Soccer Coaches second-team All-American and All-Sun Belt first team honors in his sophomore season.
Even in his freshman year, Caldeira played in 18 games, starting in 15, and found the back of the net five times with four assists.
After helping out WVU for multiple seasons, Caldeira looks to make an impact on his new professional team. MNUFC finished fourth in the Western Conference last season.
“I am beyond grateful for the opportunity to join this ambitious club and take the next step in fulfilling my lifelong dream of playing professionally,” said Caldeira. “I can’t wait to get started and contribute to the continued success of this club, its supporters, and the incredible atmosphere that Allianz Field brings. I’m thankful for the trust and support shown from the club’s staff since draft day, and I am ready to get to work on leaving a lasting impact on the club.”
