NASHVILLE, TN – On Thursday, Nashville SC announced the signing of midfielder Charles-Émile Brunet to a contract for the 2026 season, with club options through 2028-29.
Brunet, 22, was selected with the 80th-overall pick in the 2025 MLS SuperDraft after standing out in two seasons at the collegiate level with the University of Central Arkansas and Southern Methodist University. A native of Montreal, Quebec, Brunet spent time with CF Montréal's academy before moving to the States.
"Charles-Émile was identified by our scouting department throughout his college career, and he has assimilated to playing at the next level," said Nashville SC President of Soccer Operations and General Manager Mike Jacobs. "He’s performed well with the first team in preseason and has earned this opportunity."
In two seasons at the collegiate level, Brunet played 2,772 minutes in 36 matches (33 starts), scoring four goals and adding seven assists. A creative midfielder, he developed as a No. 10 but was given a more box-to-box role in SMU's pro-style setup, where he thrived. He led them to their first-ever ACC Championship in 2025, logging three assists in their 5-4 win over Wake Forest in the first round of the ACC Tournament.
Widely regarded as one of the top midfield prospects in the draft after a standout showing at the MLS College combine, Brunet surprisingly dropped into the third round, where Nashville were able to snag him.
C'est beau, Brunet 😮💨⚜️ pic.twitter.com/eBPT7tf2x0
— Nashville SC (@NashvilleSC) January 20, 2026
Brunet played the final 30 minutes in Nashville's first preseason friendly of the year, a 4-1 loss to Chicago Fire. He scored the Coyotes' only goal, bringing the ball down outside the box before smashing a half-volley into the top corner.
Brunet is the latest in a string of SuperDraft picks to sign professional contracts with Nashville SC, including Jack Maher, Alistair Johnston, Elliot Panicco, Luke Haakenson, and Wyatt Meyer.
Brunet will wear the number 12 shirt for Nashville.
