HARRISON, N.J. – The New York Red Bulls II announced on Thursday the club had re-signed defender Juan Castillo ahead of the 2022 USL Championship season. The signing is pending league and federation approval.

Castillo made his professional debut last May and appeared in 29 matches and recorded 25 starts during the 2021 Championship season. The 19-year-old logged 2,194 minutes during that span and finished tied for third on the team in assists with three.

“We are very pleased to have Juan return for the 2022 USL Championship season,” said Red Bulls Academy Director Sean McCafferty. “He has physical attributes that are very interesting for us, and we feel that he started to understand our style of play more as the season went on which bodes well for next season. He is also versatile which is advantageous for both the team and Juan, and I have no doubt he will have an excellent year with us.”

Defensively, Castillo led the team in aerial duels won (57) and was tied for first in interceptions (54). He ranked second on the team in clearances (92), tackles (67), tackles won (44), duels won (166), and aerial duels (105).

“I’m excited for this new season with this great organization,” Castillo said. “I want to continue to grow and to contribute as much as I can for the team.”