FC Naples Signs Defender Luca Mastrantonio Ahead of 2026 USL League One Season

NAPLES, Fla. — FC Naples has added experience and championship pedigree to its back line, announcing the signing of defender Luca Mastrantonio ahead of the 2026 USL League One season.

Mastrantonio, a 28-year-old Italian center back, arrives in Naples with an extensive résumé at the League One level and a reputation as a proven winner. The Rome native has logged 87 USL League One appearances and played key roles on title-contending teams, bringing leadership and consistency to a club preparing for its second season in the league.

A veteran of multiple championship runs, Mastrantonio is expected to bolster FC Naples’ defensive unit as the club continues to build momentum and establish itself as a League One contender.

From Italy to the American Game

Mastrantonio began his soccer journey in Italy in 2015 with Serie D side A.S. Ostia Mare Lido Calcio before moving to the United States to pursue collegiate soccer. His college career spanned three levels, reflecting both adaptability and steady progression.

He competed at the NAIA level with the University of Northwestern Ohio, moved to NCAA Division II at Rockhurst University, and finished at the NCAA Division I level with the University of California, Irvine. During his senior season at UC Irvine, Mastrantonio earned All-Big West First Team honors, establishing himself as one of the conference’s top defenders.

While in college, Mastrantonio also gained valuable experience in USL League Two with Thunder Bay Chill in Ontario, Canada. He helped guide the club to the 2017 League Two Final and scored the decisive goal in a 1-0 semifinal victory over FC Golden State Force.

Professional Career and Championship Pedigree

Mastrantonio turned professional in 2021, signing with FC Tucson, where he made 50 appearances and scored four goals across all competitions over two seasons. His steady performances led to a move to Union Omaha ahead of the 2023 campaign.

In Nebraska, Mastrantonio became a central figure in one of League One’s most successful stretches. He helped Union Omaha capture back-to-back Players’ Shields in 2023 and 2024 and played a key role in the club’s 2024 league championship. Across all competitions, he appeared 57 times for the Owls, cementing his status as a reliable, championship-caliber defender.

Most recently, Mastrantonio competed with AV ALTA FC during the 2025 season before signing with FC Naples.

“We’re excited to welcome Luca to FC Naples,” head coach Matt Poland said. “He’s a proven winner and has been one of the league’s top center backs, with a track record of consistent high-level performance. Luca brings strong leadership and experience, and his presence will be a key part of maintaining our high defensive standards this season.”

Looking Ahead

With nearly a decade of experience spanning Italian and American soccer, Mastrantonio brings maturity, tactical awareness, and a winning mentality to FC Naples. His arrival signals the club’s intent to compete at a high level as it continues its build toward the 2026 campaign.

The signing is pending league and federation approval.

Transaction: FC Naples signs defender Luca Mastrantonio for the 2026 season.

Player Information:

• Name: Luca Mastrantonio

• Pronunciation: Loo-kah Mah-strahn-toh-nee-oh

• Position: Defender

• Height: 6-foot-2

• Date of Birth: May 27, 1996

• Hometown: Rome, Italy

• Nationality: Italy

• Previous Clubs: AV ALTA FC, Union Omaha, FC Tucson, Thunder Bay Chill

Collaborator Credits: Cyndee Woolley