The Deep Dish: Fire sign Elliott, promote two from CFII

CHICAGO, IL–Chicago Fire FC have been busy with player movement this week. Their first signing under new coach and director of football Gregg Berhalter was free agent Jack Elliott. Elliott, 29, spent eight seasons at Philadelphia Union making 270 appearances across all competitions. Elliott has ten regular season goals and three in the playoffs–two of which were in MLS Cup 2022 against LAFC.

“Jack’s decision to join the Fire as a free agent marks an important step in our efforts to build a highly competitive squad for next season,” said Berhalter. “Jack’s signing immediately strengthens our team, as he brings extensive MLS experience, strong technical ability, and leadership along the backline. We’re excited to welcome Jack to the Fire and look forward to his contributions on and off the field as we work toward achieving our goals.”

Additionally, the Fire promoted two players from their MLS Next Pro squad–Chicago Fire II. Forward David Poreba was added last Wednesday. He is signed through 2025 with club options the next three seasons. Poreba was named MLS NEXT Pro MVP and won the Golden Boot with 18 goals and eight assists in 28 matches for CFII.

“David has earned this opportunity after an impressive season with Chicago Fire FC II, where he received MLS NEXT Pro MVP and Golden Boot honors,” said Berhalter. “David is a very promising young player with strong leadership qualities, and we look forward to seeing his continued development at the next level.”

Joining Poreba will be winger Omari Glasgow. Glasgow’s contract runs through 2026 with club options for the following two years. Glasgow has 15 goals and 13 assists over two seasons for CFII and made three appearances with the first team last season on short-term agreements. Glasgow recently became Guyana’s all time scoring leader with 20 and was named Concacaf Nations League Young Player of the Tournament.

“Omari has been a top performer for Chicago Fire FC II for the past three seasons, and we believe that he has significant potential if he continues to stay focused and work hard,” said Berhalter.

On Tuesday, the Fire announced that they will take part in the preseason Coachella Valley Invitational in February. The Fire will take on LAFC, Portland Timbers, San Jose Earthquakes, and defending champion LA Galaxy at the Empire Polo Grounds in Indio, CA. Below is the full schedule for the Fire in Coachella Valley:

Chicago Fire FC 2024 Coachella Valley Invitational Schedule
Feb. 5 – Chicago Fire FC vs. LAFC at Empire Polo Grounds (3:30 p.m. CT | TICKETS)
Feb. 8 – Portland Timbers vs. Chicago Fire FC at Empire Polo Grounds (4:30 p.m. CT | TICKETS)
Feb. 12 – Chicago Fire FC vs. San Jose Earthquakes at Empire Polo Grounds (12:00 p.m. CT | TICKETS)
Feb. 15 – LA Galaxy vs. Chicago Fire FC at Empire Polo Grounds (2:00 p.m. CT | TICKETS)