FC Naples has announced the signing of defender Max
Broughton ahead of the 2026 USL League One season. A composed, physical center back with
elite collegiate credentials and international youth experience, Broughton strengthens Naples’
back line as the club continues to build a competitive roster for the upcoming season.
Broughton brings consistency and leadership to the defensive unit. Known for his reliability and
positional awareness, he joins FC Naples after establishing himself as one of the top defenders
in collegiate soccer.
Defensive Consistency at the Collegiate Level
Broughton appeared in every match during the 2023 and 2024 seasons at West Virginia
University, playing a key role as the Mountaineers reached the 2023 College Cup semifinals and
captured the 2024 Sun Belt Conference Tournament title. He led the team in minutes played in
both seasons, anchoring a defense that ranked fourth nationally with 10 shutouts in 2024.
His performances earned significant individual recognition, including Second Team All-American
honors from United Soccer Coaches and First Team All-Sun Belt selection. Across two seasons at
WVU, Broughton established himself as a dependable presence at the heart of the back line.
Prior to his time in Morgantown, Broughton spent three seasons at Southern
Illinois–Edwardsville, where he earned Second Team All-Missouri Valley Conference honors in 2021.
Across both programs, he finished his collegiate career with eight goals and five assists,
starting all but three matches in which he appeared.
International Foundations and the Path to Naples
A native of Rawtenstall, England, Broughton developed in the youth academies of Bolton
Wanderers and Salford City before moving to the United States. He also earned international
experience at a young age, making three appearances for England’s Under-17 National Team.
Broughton signed with Pittsburgh Riverhounds SC ahead of the 2025 season, gaining valuable
experience with the USL Championship side in his first year as a professional. He now joins FC
Naples as the club builds toward the 2026 campaign, bringing maturity and high-level defensive
experience to the roster.
Transaction: FC Naples signs Max Broughton for the 2026 season, pending league and
federation approval.
Player Details:
● Name: Max Broughton
● Pronunciation: [M-ax BRAW-ton]
● Position: Center Back
● Height: 6’2”
● Date of Birth: February 25, 2001
● Hometown: Rawtenstall, England
● Nationality: England
● Previous Experience: Pittsburgh Riverhounds SC, West Virginia University, England U-17
National Team