Philadelphia Union Embrace Change Ahead of 2026 Season

The Philadelphia Union are entering the 2026 season with significant changes following their successful 2025 campaign, which culminated in winning the Supporters’ Shield. As the team commenced training camp this week, they faced notable roster shifts, including the departure of three All-Stars and a strategic rebuild that reflects a commitment to long-term vision.

During a press conference on Friday, Jon Scheer, the Director of Academy and Professional Development, emphasized that these changes are part of a well-considered plan rather than mere adjustments. “We’re not changing just for change’s sake,” Scheer stated. “We’re changing because we believe that with the assets we can acquire and the development that Bradley Carnell and his staff bring, the pieces can ultimately add to our success.”

The 2025 season solidified the Union’s strategy of transforming players into valuable assets, a process that has been instrumental in their recent achievements. This offseason has been described as “busy but very intentional,” even in the absence of Ernst Tanner, who is on administrative leave pending an MLS investigation into his workplace conduct. The Union’s front office is navigating this transition with a collaborative approach, confident in their ability to adapt to market opportunities.

Key departures include Jakob Glesnes, who has joined the L.A. Galaxy, and Tai Baribo, the team’s leading scorer in 2025, who has moved to D.C. United. The Union also bid farewell to Kai Wagner, their all-time assist leader, who transferred to Birmingham City in the English League Championship. While these losses represent a significant change for the team, the Union’s management believes in their depth and development capabilities.

Scheer noted, “Our process gives us confidence… it’s the same thing with our scouting process and how we approach the windows.” The leadership transition is notable, with younger players now stepping into more prominent roles. Players like Quinn Sullivan and Nathan Harriel are among the most tenured, while the team aims to infuse youth into key positions by replacing 31-year-old Mikael Uhre with 20-year-old Ezekiel Alladoh.

As the team prepares for their training camp in Marbella, Spain, Carnell acknowledged the excitement surrounding the preseason. “The preseason can tell a lot,” he said. “We are getting new players in and will see how we can utilize formations and tactics with our personnel.” The Union’s successful strategy in 2025 has fostered optimism for the upcoming season, with players eager to step up and fill leadership gaps.

The Union have not ruled out further transfers, with suggestions of interest in Colombian center back Geiner Martinez and potential Homegrown additions to the roster. “While we’ve made a few signings, we aren’t done,” Scheer confirmed. “We’re very active in the transfer market.”

With a busy schedule ahead, including the upcoming CONCACAF Champions Cup starting on February 18 in Trinidad and Tobago, the Union are preparing for an even more demanding season than last year, which saw them play 41 matches across all competitions. The shift in focus from the Open Cup to the revamped Leagues Cup reflects the team’s commitment to strategic growth.

As the Philadelphia Union embark on this new chapter, the emphasis on development and adaptability remains at the forefront of their approach, setting the stage for a promising 2026 season.