NASHVILLE, Tenn. – Nashville Soccer Club has signed midfielder Charles-Emile Brunet to a first-team contract for the 2026 Major League Soccer season, the club announced Thursday. The contract includes options through the 2028-29 seasons, signaling a long-term investment in the 22-year-aged player.
Brunet was originally selected by Nashville SC in the third round (80th overall) of the 2026 MLS SuperDraft. He immediately impressed during preseason, earning the opportunity to sign with the club, according to Nashville SC President of Soccer Operations and General Manager Mike Jacobs.
“Charles was identified by our scouting department throughout his college career and he has assimilated to playing at the next level,” Jacobs said in a statement. “He’s performed well with the first team in preseason and has earned this opportunity.”
Prior to joining Nashville SC, Brunet developed within the CF Montréal Academy system. He began his collegiate career at the University of Central Arkansas, where he recorded two goals and one assist in 16 appearances, starting 13 matches. He then transferred to Southern Methodist University (SMU) for his sophomore year, becoming a key contributor for the Mustangs.
At SMU, Brunet registered two goals and six assists in 20 appearances, all of which were starts. His performance earned him recognition as a standout player in collegiate soccer. Before coming to the United States, Brunet played three seasons for Collège Ahuntsic in Montreal, where he was named Most Valuable Player for both his team and the league in 2023 and was a finalist for the Canadian Collegiate Player of the Year award.
Brunet is the first Nashville SC draft pick to sign with the club immediately after being drafted since defender Joey Skinner in 2023, according to the club. He has one goal in four exhibition games during the current preseason.
Born November 26, 2003, in Montreal, Quebec, Canada, Brunet’s signing adds depth to Nashville SC’s midfield ahead of the 2026 MLS season.
