Matthew Arana

Arana joined the Dynamo Academy in 2021 and quickly became a key contributor during his five-year Academy tenure, representing the U-16 squad at the 2024 Generation Adidas Cup and the U-18 squad at the GA Cup the following year. Additionally, Arana scored a penalty in last year’s MLS NEXT Cup tournament with the U-18s.  

He also featured for Houston Dynamo 2 several times last year, recording five appearances (one start) and one assist. He made his professional debut on July 25 at Austin FC II and recorded his first professional start and assist on Sept. 17 versus Tacoma Defiance. Notably, Arana became the second youngest player ever to debut for Dynamo 2 at just 14 years, 10 months and 28 days old. 

Arana was one of seven Academy players called up by head coach Ben Olsen to join the Dynamo for preseason action this year, including helping the team win the inaugural Torneo de Tejas title. 

Latest transaction: Signed to a first team contract as a Homegrown Player through 2027-28 season with Club options through the 2029-30 season. 

Dynamo Debut: Feb. 28, 2026, versus LAFC.