2024 Chicago Fire in Review: Justin Reynolds

Justin Reynolds traveled the globe in order to play soccer in 2024 and ended up finally making his MLS debut over the summer after a year that had him competing in three different leagues on two continents.

Reynolds went on loan in February to fellow Joe Mansueto-owned club FC Lugano and told On Tap Sports Net in July that the loan “changed him” in a positive manner despite only making a single appearance at the end of their Swiss Super League campaign.

The Homegrown fullback made his MLS debut with the Fire in Fort Lauderdale on July 20 when he came off the bench against Inter Miami. Reynolds made nine appearances in all competitions for the Fire’s first team in 2024, helping cover after the club’s injury crisis at left back forced former head coach Frank Klopas to shift things around.

Reynolds was a crucial piece to Chicago Fire II’s playoff squad after he returned from his loan. He provided the match-winning assist on MLS Next Pro Decision Day against Philadelphia Union 2 to secure a home playoff match for his team before starting in each of Fire II’s playoff matches.

Reynolds remains under contract with the Fire through at least the 2026 MLS season and should get a chance to compete for a role with the first team next season. If he can’t find consistent minutes under new head coach Gregg Berhalter, another loan might be in store for the young outside back.