Ulsan HD Signs American Striker Benji Michel for 2026 K League 1 Season

Ulsan HD FC announced the signing of American forward Benji Michel on Thursday, February 14, 2026, as the K League 1 club prepares for the upcoming season. The move is intended to add speed and creativity to Ulsan’s attacking options, according to a statement released by the club.

Michel, 28, joins Ulsan HD after most recently playing for Portland University. The club emphasized that the acquisition of Michel is aimed at maximizing tactical flexibility within the squad. Ulsan HD is entering its 43rd season in the K League 1, and its second season operating under the Ulsan HD name following a rebranding from Ulsan Hyundai FC.

Ulsan HD will be looking to continue its recent dominance in the K League 1, having won the past three championships. The club aims to become only the second team in South Korean football history to secure four consecutive league titles, a feat previously achieved by Jeonbuk Hyundai Motors from 2017 to 2021. The 2026 season is scheduled to kick off with a match between Pohang Steelers and Daejeon Hana Citizen FC on Saturday, February 15.

The club will also participate in the 2026 Korean FA Cup, adding another competitive front to their schedule. Ulsan HD is currently managed by Kim Pan-gon, who took over mid-season in 2024 after the departure of Hong Myung-bo to the South Korean national team. Kim Pan-gon led the team to a championship victory despite a challenging period following his appointment.

Ulsan HD’s roster includes a mix of experienced players and emerging talent. Key players include goalkeeper Jo Hyeon-woo, defenders Kim Young-gwon and Jung Seung-hyun, and midfielder Ko Seung-beom. The team plays its home matches at the Ulsan Munsu Football Stadium.

The K League 1 season will be impacted by the Asian Football Confederation Champions League Elite tournament, with knockout stages beginning in March and continuing through May, potentially causing scheduling challenges for Ulsan HD and other Korean clubs.