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{{Short description|American professional soccer club based in Philadelphia metropolitan area}}
{{More citations needed|date=February 2024}}
{{Use American English|date=May 2021}}
{{Use mdy dates|date=March 2022}}
{{Infobox football club
| clubname = Philadelphia Union
| image = Philadelphia Union 2018 logo.svg
| upright= 0.85
| fullname = Philadelphia Union
| nickname ='' The Union<br>The U<br>Zolos<br>The Onion''
| short name = 
| founded = {{start date and age|2008|2|28}}
| stadium = [[Subaru Park]]
| capacity = 18,500<ref name="subaru">{{cite web |title=About Subaru Park |url=https://www.philadelphiaunion.com/stadium/about |publisher=Philadelphia Union}}</ref>
| owntitle = Owner
| owner = Jay Sugarman<ref>{{cite web |title=Club {{!}} Philadelphia Union |url=https://www.philadelphiaunion.com/club/bio/sugarman |access-date=August 5, 2021 |publisher=philadelphiaunion.com }}</ref>
| chrtitle = Sporting director
| chairman = Ernst Tanner
| mgrtitle = Head coach
| manager = [[Bradley Carnell]]
| league = [[Major League Soccer]]
| season = [[2024 Major League Soccer season|2024]]
| position = [[Eastern Conference (MLS)|Eastern Conference]]: 12th<br>Overall: 23rd<br>[[2024 MLS Cup playoffs|Playoffs]]: Did not qualify
| current = 2025 Philadelphia Union season
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}}

The '''Philadelphia Union''' are an American professional [[Association football|soccer]] club based in the [[Delaware Valley|Philadelphia metropolitan area]]. The club competes in [[Major League Soccer]] (MLS) as a member of the [[Eastern Conference (MLS)|Eastern Conference]]. Founded on February 28, 2008, the Union began playing in [[2010 Major League Soccer season|2010]] as an [[expansion team]]. The club's home stadium is [[Subaru Park]], a [[soccer-specific stadium]] located in [[Chester, Pennsylvania]], on the banks of the [[Delaware River]].

The Union are currently owned by Keystone Sports & Entertainment, with Jay Sugarman serving as majority owner and chairman of the club. Professional [[basketball]] player [[Kevin Durant]] serves as a minority owner. The Union finished as runners-up in the 2014, 2015 and 2018 [[U.S. Open Cup]] tournaments and the 2022 [[MLS Cup]] final. In [[2020 Major League Soccer season|2020]], Philadelphia secured the [[Supporters' Shield]] with their regular season performance, the first in the club's history.

==History==

===Drive for expansion===
{{See also|Expansion of Major League Soccer}}
Despite being one of the ten largest metropolitan areas in the country and a top-five media market, the [[Philadelphia area]] was not represented when Major League Soccer kicked off in 1996. Philadelphia was previously represented by the [[Philadelphia Atoms]] (1973–76) and [[Philadelphia Fury (1978–80)|Philadelphia Fury]] (1978–80) in the [[FIFA]]-backed, major professional [[North American Soccer League (1968–1984)|North American Soccer League]] (NASL). The Atoms won the [[Soccer Bowl]] in their [[NASL Final 1973|inaugural 1973 season]]. Philadelphia goalkeeper and [[Ridley Park, Pennsylvania]] native [[Bob Rigby]] became the first soccer player to be featured on the cover of ''[[Sports Illustrated]]'' following the club's championship. The Atoms folded after the 1976 season, having been bought by Mexican owners whose plans to move the team to [[San Antonio]] were not approved by the league. The Atoms and the Fury both played at [[Veterans Stadium]], though the Atoms played their final season in Philadelphia at [[Franklin Field]]. The NASL folded in 1984, leaving the United States without a top-level soccer league until Major League Soccer (MLS) began play in 1996.<ref>{{cite book | url=https://books.google.com/books?id=Ln7E8F62iu0C&q=philadelphia%20atoms%20 | isbn=9780313379888 | title=American History Through American Sports: From Colonial Lacrosse to Extreme Sports | year=2013 | publisher=Abc-Clio }}</ref><ref>{{cite book | url=https://books.google.com/books?id=Lco4EAAAQBAJ&dq=philadelphia+atoms+philadelphia+fury&pg=PA48 | isbn=9781098210502 | title=Philadelphia Union | date=August 2021 | last1=Carothers | first1=Thomas }}</ref><ref>{{cite web | url=https://www.fifa.com/tournaments/mens/worldcup/canadamexicousa2026/destination/philadelphia | title=Philadelphia }}</ref>

The first effort to bring professional soccer back to the Delaware Valley commenced in 2001, when a group of investors attempted to bring an MLS franchise to [[Trenton, New Jersey]]. The centerpiece of their efforts was a $31&nbsp;million soccer-specific stadium to be built across the street from the [[CURE Insurance Arena]] and with access to the under-construction [[River Line (New Jersey Transit)|NJ Transit River Line.]]<ref>{{Cite news |last=Hollander |first=Sophia |date=September 9, 2001 |title=Is the Field Getting Too Crowded? |work=The New York Times |url=https://www.nytimes.com/2001/09/09/nyregion/is-the-field-getting-too-crowded.html?pagewanted=all |access-date=February 9, 2012}}</ref> "Union FC" was the intended name for the Trenton MLS team if it came to fruition. However, the MetroStars (now the [[New York Red Bulls]]) held the right to block a franchise in Trenton, as it would infringe on their 75-mile competition-free zone.

Five years later, plans were in place to construct a 20,000-capacity stadium on the campus of [[Rowan University]] in [[Glassboro, New Jersey]]. The stadium would serve as the home field for both an MLS expansion club and Rowan's football team.<ref>{{cite web |last=Murray |first=Lucas K. |date=June 27, 2010 |title=Missing the goal: Philadelphia Union's new soccer stadium could have been in Gloucester County. |url=http://www.nj.com/gloucester/index.ssf?/base/news-0/1277626214265630.xml&coll=8 |access-date=February 9, 2012 |publisher=The Gloucester County Times |archive-date=November 25, 2015 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20151125125944/http://www.nj.com/gloucester/index.ssf?/base/news-0/1277626214265630.xml&coll=8 |url-status=dead }}</ref> Ultimately, $100&nbsp;million in state bonds to fund the stadium and various other improvements on the Rowan campus were dropped by New Jersey Governor [[Jon Corzine]]. Shortly after the Rowan proposal fell through, Keystone Sports & Entertainment (the group that would eventually own the Union) looked at a site underneath the [[Commodore Barry Bridge]] in Chester to develop a soccer-specific stadium.

In 2007, the [[Sons of Ben (MLS supporters association)|Sons of Ben]] supporter group formed to raise interest toward a Major League Soccer team in Philadelphia. They are credited with demonstrating to MLS an established fan base in the market.<ref>{{cite web |last=Jasner |first=Andy |date=March 1, 2008 |title=Sons of Ben rejoice in Philly expansion |url=http://web.mlsnet.com/news/mls_news.jsp?ymd=20080229&content_id=141210&vkey=news_mls&fext=.jsp |url-status=dead |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20081209093457/http://web.mlsnet.com/news/mls_news.jsp?ymd=20080229&content_id=141210&vkey=news_mls&fext=.jsp |archive-date=December 9, 2008 |access-date=May 12, 2009 |publisher=MLSNet.com}}</ref>

Major League Soccer added Philadelphia as its sixteenth team on February 28, 2008.<ref>{{cite web |date=February 28, 2008 |title=MLS awards Philadelphia 2010 expansion team |url=http://web.mlsnet.com/news/mls_news.jsp?ymd=20080228&content_id=140965&vkey=pr_mls&fext=.jsp |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20080302202651/http://web.mlsnet.com/news/mls_news.jsp?ymd=20080228&content_id=140965&vkey=pr_mls&fext=.jsp |archive-date=March 2, 2008 |access-date=February 28, 2008}}</ref> The finalization of the club was the result of a $47&nbsp;million package approved by [[Delaware County, Pennsylvania|Delaware County]] politicians and Pennsylvania governor [[Ed Rendell]] that included the cost of [[Subaru Park]] and a major [[urban renewal]] project.<ref>{{cite web |title=Major hurdle cleared for Philly expansion |url=http://www.mlsnet.com//news/mls_news.jsp?ymd=20080131&content_id=137294&vkey=news_mls&fext=.jsp |url-status=dead |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20080210074034/http://www.mlsnet.com/news/mls_news.jsp?ymd=20080131&content_id=137294&vkey=news_mls&fext=.jsp |archive-date=February 10, 2008 |access-date=January 31, 2008 |website=MLSnet.com}}</ref>

[[File:Walter Bahr Joe Biden at Lincoln Financial Field for Philadelphia Union match (cropped).jpg|thumb|National Soccer Hall of Famer [[Walter Bahr]], with then-Vice President [[Joe Biden]], at a Philadelphia Union match, 2010]]

In December 2009, the Union added the Reading Rage youth soccer organization as their official minor league affiliate in the [[USL Premier Development League]]. As a result, the Rage were rebranded as "[[Reading United AC]]" with a new logo and colors for the 2010 PDL season.<ref>{{cite web |date=December 21, 2009 |title=New era for Reading PDL team |url=http://www.uslsoccer.com/home/389250.html |url-status=dead |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20121006165210/http://www.uslsoccer.com/home/389250.html |archive-date=October 6, 2012 |access-date=December 3, 2011 |publisher=Uslsoccer.com}}</ref> In the [[2010 MLS SuperDraft]], the Union selected forward [[Danny Mwanga]] from [[Oregon State University]] as the number one pick, as well as sixth and seventh picks [[Amobi Okugo]] from [[UCLA Bruins#Soccer|UCLA]] and [[Jack McInerney]] from the U.S. U-17 National Team in the first round.<ref>{{cite web |title=2010 SuperDraft&nbsp;– Draft Tracker |url=http://web.mlsnet.com/mls/events/superdraft/2010/draft_tracker.jsp |url-status=dead |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20100117173019/http://web.mlsnet.com/mls/events/superdraft/2010/draft_tracker.jsp |archive-date=January 17, 2010 |access-date=January 14, 2010 |publisher=Major League Soccer}}</ref> In March 2010, the Union signed an affiliation agreement with the [[Harrisburg City Islanders]] of the [[United Soccer League]].<ref>{{Cite news |title=Philadelphia Union To Play Harrisburg City Islanders July 27 |work=Daily Times |url=http://www.delcotimes.com/articles/2010/06/15/sports/doc4c178063a3dc4365899316.txt |archive-url=https://archive.today/20120728102150/http://www.delcotimes.com/articles/2010/06/15/sports/doc4c178063a3dc4365899316.txt |url-status=dead |archive-date=July 28, 2012 |access-date=July 7, 2010 }}</ref> And in January 2012, the Union formed their first international partnership with [[Deportivo Saprissa]] of the [[Costa Rican Primera División]].<ref>{{cite web |date=January 27, 2012 |title=Union form strategic partnership Deportivo Saprissa |url=http://www.philadelphiaunion.com/news/2012/01/union-form-strategic-partnership-deportivo-saprissa}}</ref>

===Inaugural season===
The Union played their inaugural game on March 25, 2010, in which they lost 2–0 to [[Seattle Sounders FC]] at [[Qwest Field]].<ref>{{cite web |date=March 25, 2010 |title=The Union go down in their debut |url=http://www.philly.com/philly/sports/soccer/The_Union_go_down_in_their_debut.html |url-status=dead |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20100329061215/http://www.philly.com/philly/sports/soccer/The_Union_go_down_in_their_debut.html |archive-date=March 29, 2010 |access-date=March 26, 2010 |website=The Philadelphia Inquirer}}</ref> [[Sébastien Le Toux]] became the first player to score a goal for Philadelphia in their home opener on April 10, 2010, a 3–2 win over [[D.C. United]] at [[Lincoln Financial Field]].<ref>{{cite web |date=April 10, 2010 |title=Le Toux helps Union hold off D.C. in Philly debut |url=http://www.mlssoccer.com/content/le-toux-helps-union-hold-dc-philly-debut |url-status=dead |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20100504053940/http://www.mlssoccer.com/content/le-toux-helps-union-hold-dc-philly-debut |archive-date=May 4, 2010 |access-date=May 20, 2010 |website=Major League Soccer}}</ref> The team again played Seattle Sounders FC for the first match at Subaru Park on June 27, 2010. Le Toux scored the Union's initial goal at the venue from a penalty kick, which was instrumental to their 3–1 victory. All 12,000 season ticket packages for 2010 were sold prior to this opener.<ref>{{Cite news |last=Gabriel |first=Kerith |date=May 20, 2010 |title=Union season-ticket packages are sold out |work=Philadelphia Daily News |url=http://www.philly.com/dailynews/sports/20100520_Union_season-ticket_packages_are_sold_out.html |access-date=May 20, 2010}}</ref> At the end of the inaugural season the Union finished 7th in the Eastern Conference and 14th overall in the league with a record of 8–15–7 (W-L-T).

===The Piotr Nowak era (2010–2012)===
The Union picked up three players in the [[2011 MLS SuperDraft]], most notably [[Zac MacMath]], who was the fifth overall draft pick. On January 11, 2011, the Union acquired shirt sponsor [[Bimbo Bakeries USA]]. On January 20, Philadelphia introduced two new players: Colombians [[Faryd Mondragón]] (GK) and [[Carlos Valdés (footballer)|Carlos Valdés]] (D). Mondragón had recently come from playing with [[1. FC Köln]] in the German [[Bundesliga]], and has at least 50 caps with the [[Colombia national football team|Colombia national team]]. Valdés came from [[Independiente Santa Fe]] in the [[Categoría Primera A|Colombian First Division]], where he served as captain before coming to Philadelphia. The Union also signed during the summer transfer window US International [[Freddy Adu]].

The team made a complete turnaround in the 2011 season, finishing 3rd in the Eastern Conference and 8th overall in the league with a record of 11–8–15 (W-L-T) scoring 44 goals and allowing 36. This marked the first time the Philadelphia Union qualified for the [[MLS Cup Playoffs]]. The Union had a stellar start of the season that saw them win 4 and only lost 1 of their first six league games. In the [[2011 MLS Cup Playoffs]] the Union lost the first leg of the MLS Eastern Conference semi-finals 2–1 at home on October 30, 2011, with the 1st playoff Union goal coming from Sebastien Le Toux. The Union then lost the 2nd leg 1–0 on November 3, 2011, against the future MLS Cup finalist Houston Dynamo.<ref name="philadelphiaunion.com">{{cite web |title=Club History |url=http://www.philadelphiaunion.com/club/history |website=Philadelphia Union}}</ref>

[[File:Sebastien Le Toux (cropped).jpg|thumb|[[Sébastien Le Toux]] was the Union's first goal scorer.]]

===Nowak to Hackworth (2012–2014)===
John Hackworth became the Union's interim coach on June 13, 2012, receiving the role permanently on August 30, 2012. The Union finished their third season in eighth place in the Eastern Conference and fifteenth in MLS overall, with a record of 10–18–6 (W-L-T), scoring 37 goals and allowing 45. [[Antoine Hoppenot]], who was selected in the third round of the 2012 Supplemental Draft, netted four goals within 817 minutes of play. Subaru Park, then known as PPL Park, was the site of the [[2012 MLS All-Star Game]] in which the MLS All-Stars defeated [[Chelsea F.C.]], 3–2.<ref name="philadelphiaunion.com" /> The Union also made it to the semifinals of the [[2012 U.S. Open Cup]] after defeating the [[Rochester Rhinos]] 3–0 in the third round and winning against [[D.C. United]] on the road 2–1, after extra time, in the fourth round. They subsequently defeated the [[Harrisburg City Islanders]], their main affiliate at the time, 5–2 in the quarterfinals.

The Union traded allocation money in order to take the first overall pick, which was used on goalkeeper and Jamaican international [[Andre Blake]]. They then traded down multiple times in order to select [[Coastal Carolina University]] midfielder [[Pedro Ribeiro (Brazilian footballer)|Pedro Ribeiro]]. Other new, preseason acquisitions included [[Maurice Edu]], French midfielder [[Vincent Nogueira]], Argentinian midfielder [[Cristian Maidana]], and former [[MLS Rookie of the Year Award|MLS Rookie of the Year]] defender [[Austin Berry (soccer)|Austin Berry]]. Despite these additions, the Union still languished in mediocrity, winning just two of their first 14 games, posting a record of 2–7–5 (W-L-T). On April 20, 2014, the Union traded forward [[Jack McInerney]] to the [[Montreal Impact (MLS)|Montreal Impact]] for winger [[Andrew Wenger]], a [[Lancaster, Pennsylvania]] native. Hackworth's coaching career with the Union ended on June 10, 2014.

===Jim Curtin takes charge (2014–2024)===
Although failing to make the playoffs, the Union reached the [[2014 Lamar Hunt U.S. Open Cup|2014 Lamar Hunt U.S. Open Cup finals]] for the first time in the club's history. During the offseason, the club traded for forward [[C. J. Sapong]] from [[Sporting Kansas City]]. They also traded long time defensive midfielder [[Amobi Okugo]] to [[Orlando City SC]]. Other new preseason acquisitions included [[FC Nantes]] loanee [[Fernando Aristeguieta]], [[S.L. Benfica]] loanee [[Steven Vitória]], and free agent Cameroonian 18-year-old midfielder [[Eric Ayuk]]. During the [[2015 MLS SuperDraft]] the Union drafted forward [[Dzenan Catic]] from [[Bosnia and Herzegovina|Bosnia-Herzegovina]], midfielder [[Eric Bird]], and defender [[Raymond Lee (soccer)|Raymond Lee]]. During the expansion draft, Orlando City SC drafted Philadelphia midfielder [[Pedro Ribeiro (Brazilian footballer)|Pedro Ribeiro]]. Despite all the offseason transactions, the Union only registered one win in their first ten league games with a record of 1–6–3 (W-L-T).

During the 2015 summer transfer window, the Union traded longtime defender [[Sheanon Williams]] to the [[Houston Dynamo]] for allocation money, which they used to sign Swiss midfielder [[Tranquillo Barnetta]] on July 29, 2015. The club achieved a successful run in the [[2015 Lamar Hunt U.S. Open Cup]], earning a second consecutive appearance in the Open Cup final. This match took place against [[Sporting Kansas City]], at Subaru Park on September 30, 2015.

In 2016, the Union would acquire [[Chris Pontius (soccer)|Chris Pontius]] from [[D.C. United]], Surinames midfielder [[Roland Alberg]], and Brazilian right midfielder [[Ilsinho]]. They would also acquire U.S. international [[Alejandro Bedoya]] in the summer transfer window. The Union would also add key players from the [[2016 MLS SuperDraft]] including [[Josh Yaro]], [[Keegan Rosenberry]], and [[Fabian Herbers]]. The 2016 season saw success from Goalkeeper [[Andre Blake]] who later would win the 2016 [[MLS Goalkeeper of the Year Award]]. The Union were in constant playoff contention, however went 0–5–2(W-L-T) in the final 7 matches of the regular season. The Union would still reach the playoffs for only the 2nd time in team history, beating out [[New England Revolution]] on goal differential. The Union were beaten 3–1 in the Knockout round of the [[2016 MLS Cup Playoffs]] by [[Toronto FC]].
[[File:Jakob Glesnes (51200171217) (cropped).jpg|thumb|upright=0.75|[[Jakob Glesnes]] during a May 2021 match is shown wearing the club's light blue away kit]]

The Union were unable to build on their 2016 success, finishing with the same record but still missing the playoffs in [[2017 Philadelphia Union season|2017]]. Despite failing to make the playoffs, Curtin was announced to retain his head coach position for the [[2018 Philadelphia Union season|2018 season]].<ref>{{cite web |last=Born |first=Jacob |date=November 2, 2017 |title=Jim Curtin looking ahead to 2018 |url=https://www.philadelphiaunion.com/post/b/2017/11/02/jim-curtin-looking-ahead-2018 |access-date=January 14, 2018 |website=philadelphiaunion.com}}</ref>

A snake mascot, Phang, was introduced on September 10, 2018.<ref>{{cite web |date=September 11, 2018 |title=Phang Unveiled as Snake Mascot |url=https://www.bizjournals.com/philadelphia/news/2018/09/11/mls-philly-union-soccer-mascot-phang.html |access-date=February 1, 2024 |website=bizjournals.com}}</ref> Ahead of the 2019 season, Union Sporting Director, Ernst Tanner, announced that Curtin would be retained for the upcoming season on a one-year extension.<ref>{{cite web |last=DeGeorge |first=Matthew |date=November 19, 2018 |title=Jim Curtin to return to coach 'more dynamic' Union squad |url=https://www.delcotimes.com/sports/jim-curtin-to-return-to-coach-more-dynamic-union-squad/article_6039f722-ec3e-11e8-8cbe-4b47d2d280af.html |access-date=July 10, 2019 |publisher=Delco Times}}</ref> By July of that season, the Union reach first place in the [[Eastern Conference (MLS)|Eastern Conference]] and hitting the club's best start to a season. This success lead to the club announcing Curtin signed a two-year contract extension, to remain head coach through the [[2021 Philadelphia Union season|2021 season]].<ref>{{cite web |last=Bogert |first=Tom |date=July 10, 2019 |title=Philadelphia Union, Jim Curtin agree to multi-year contract extension |url=https://www.mlssoccer.com/post/2019/07/10/philadelphia-union-jim-curtin-agree-multi-year-contract-extension |access-date=July 10, 2019 |publisher=MLSsoccer.com}}</ref>

====First trophy and success====
The [[2020 Philadelphia Union season|2020 season]] was the most successful to date for the Union. Despite disruptions from the [[COVID-19 pandemic]], the Union reached the semi-final of the [[MLS is Back Tournament]] and went on to win their first trophy finishing top of the league standings and earning the [[Supporters' Shield|2020 Supporters' Shield]].<ref name="SS2020">{{Cite news |date=November 8, 2020 |title=Philadelphia Union win 2020 MLS Supporters' Shield on regular season's final day |publisher=Major League Soccer |url=https://www.mlssoccer.com/post/2020/11/07/philadelphia-union-win-2020-mls-supporters-shield-regular-seasons-final-day |access-date=May 25, 2021}}</ref> The team's performance over the season earned Curtin his first Sigi Schmid Coach of the Year Award.<ref name="CoTY2020">{{cite web |date=November 17, 2020 |title=Philadelphia Union's Jim Curtin named 2020 MLS Sigi Schmid Coach of the Year |url=https://www.mlssoccer.com/post/2020/11/17/philadelphia-unions-jim-curtin-named-2020-mls-sigi-schmid-coach-year |access-date=May 25, 2021 |website=Major League Soccer}}</ref> Winning the Supporter's Shield earned the Union their debut in the [[CONCACAF Champions League]], where the Union earned their first international win against [[Deportivo Saprissa]]; a victory that marked Curtin's 100th win as head coach of the club.<ref>{{cite web |last=Ralph |first=Matthew |date=April 7, 2021 |title=Union returning home up 1-0 on Saprissa in Champions League Round of 16 after historic win |url=https://www.brotherlygame.com/2021/4/7/22372826/philadelphia-union-returning-home-up-1-0-on-saprissa-in-champions-league-round-of-16 |access-date=May 25, 2021 |website=brotherlygame.com}}</ref>

Within two days prior to the Union's first ever conference final match in team history, it was reported that 11 players, including six starters had to undergo the league's COVID-19 protocol. Philadelphia lost to eventual champions New York City FC 2–1. It was later stated that it would've been impossible to delay the game, as the players would not have been available for the MLS Cup Final.<ref>{{Cite web|url=https://www.sbisoccer.com/2021/12/11-union-players-at-risk-of-missing-eastern-conference-final|title = 11 Union players at risk of missing Eastern Conference final - SBI Soccer|date = December 4, 2021}}</ref><ref>{{Cite web|url=https://www.brotherlygame.com/2021/12/8/22825057/report-mls-pr-chief-says-philadelphia-union-covid-19-mls-cup|title = Report: MLS PR chief says Union players in protocol wouldn't have been available for MLS Cup final either| date=December 8, 2021 }}</ref>

On July 8, 2022, the Philadelphia Union defeated D.C. United 7–0, setting a club record and tying the MLS record for biggest goal differential win. The overall [[2022 Philadelphia Union season|season]] proved to be special, as Philadelphia topped the Eastern table with 67 points—equal with Supporters' Shield winners [[Los Angeles FC]] (and with better goal differential but lost out due to MLS' tiebreaker of total wins). Philadelphia beat [[FC Cincinnati]] in the conference semifinals, 1–0, on a [[Leon Flach]] goal, and then defeated defending champions [[New York City FC]] 3–1 in the conference finals to advance to their first-ever [[MLS Cup 2022|MLS Cup final]].

In MLS Cup, the Union erased 1−0 and 2−1 deficits and center back [[Jack Elliott (footballer)|Jack Elliott]] scored twice in the match, including late in extra time. Ultimately LAFC came back to force penalties and won the Cup in a penalty shoot-out.

==Colors and badge==
[[File:Benjamin Franklin - Join or Die.jpg|thumb|alt=Join, or Die Benjamin Franklin was recycled to encourage the former colonies to unite against British rule|''[[Join, or Die]]'', the cartoon by [[Benjamin Franklin]] which was the inspiration behind the Union's brand]]
[[File:Bethlehem vs Brooklyn 1915.jpg|thumb|right|The [[Bethlehem Steel F.C. (1907–1930)|Bethlehem Steel F.C.]] (pictured before [[1914-15 National Challenge Cup|1915 U.S. Open Cup]]) was one of the most successful early American soccer clubs in the 20th century]]
On May 11, 2009, the Philadelphia Union's name, crest, and colors were officially announced during a ceremony held at [[Philadelphia City Hall]]. "Union" alludes to the union of the [[Thirteen Colonies]], of which Philadelphia was the first capital as well as the area's historic role with the labor movement.<ref>{{cite web|last=Gammage |first=Jeff |title=Philadelphia MLS team named Union|url=https://www.inquirer.com/philly/sports/soccer/20090508_Philadelphia_MLS_team_named_Union.html|access-date=August 24, 2021|website=www.inquirer.com|date=May 8, 2009 |language=en}}</ref><ref name="Team name">{{Cite news|title=Philadelphia Union unveil name, logo|url=https://www.mlssoccer.com/news/philadelphia-union-unveil-name-logo|publisher=MLS Digital|website=MLSSoccer.com|date=January 23, 2010|access-date=November 6, 2023}}</ref> The name was chosen following a fan poll held between January 19, 2009, and February 6, 2009; the other three options were AC Philadelphia, SC Philadelphia, and Philadelphia City.<ref name="Name Poll">{{cite web |date=January 9, 2009 |title=PHILLY Soccer 2010 Name The Team |url=http://www.philly.com/philly/sports/37248854.html |access-date=January 29, 2009}}</ref><ref>{{Cite news |date=January 15, 2009 |title=Philly-area soccer team holds vote for team name |work=USA Today |agency=Associated Press |url=https://www.usatoday.com/sports/soccer/2009-01-15-4114990389_x.htm |access-date=May 12, 2009}}</ref>

The Union's colors are [[navy blue]] and [[gold (color)|gold]], representing the primary colors of the [[Continental Army]]'s uniforms during the [[American Revolutionary War]]. The team's crest is circular, symbolizing unity. Its thirteen gold stars represent the original Thirteen Colonies, while the shield's contour derives from the Philadelphia coat of arms. The rattlesnake pays homage to the "[[Join, or Die]]" political cartoon by [[Benjamin Franklin]] that was featured in the 1754 ''[[Pennsylvania Gazette]]'', and is also reminiscent of the [[Gadsden flag]], another Revolutionary icon. The [[light blue (color)|light blue]] in the middle of the crest is a tribute to the Sons of Ben, and is further derived from the [[Flag of Philadelphia|civic flag of Philadelphia]].<ref>{{cite web |date=May 11, 2009 |title=Philadelphia Union supporters club |url=http://philadelphiaunion.com/Content1.aspx?cid=5.1_ |url-status=dead |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20090516181915/http://www.philadelphiaunion.com/Content1.aspx?cid=5.1_ |archive-date=May 16, 2009 |access-date=May 16, 2009}}</ref> Coincidentally, the navy blue, gold, and light blue colors of the Union are also the predominant colors in the state flags of Pennsylvania, New Jersey, and Delaware. The team's secondary logo is a simplified version of the aforementioned design consisting of the blue shield with the rattlesnake, augmented with a gold border and a ribbon bearing the team's official motto: "jungite aut perite", a [[Latin]] translation of the phrase "[[Join, or Die|join or die]]", which was also used in the 1754 [[Benjamin Franklin]] political cartoon mentioned above.<ref name="Philadelphia Union brand narrative">{{cite web |date=May 11, 2009 |title=Philadelphia Union brand narrative |url=http://philadelphiaunion.com/Content1.aspx?cid=1.3 |url-status=dead |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20090515101534/http://www.philadelphiaunion.com/Content1.aspx?cid=1.3 |archive-date=May 15, 2009 |access-date=May 11, 2009}}</ref> The Philadelphia Union's name and colors also allude to the [[Pennsylvania in the Civil War|state's important role during the Civil War]].

In February 2013, the team unveiled a third uniform that commemorated [[Bethlehem Steel F.C. (1907–30)|Bethlehem Steel F.C.]], one of the most successful early American soccer clubs.<ref>{{cite web |title=Jersey Week: Union pay homage to Bethlehem Steel with retro 3rd shirt |url=http://www.mlssoccer.com/news/article/2013/02/26/jersey-week-philadelphia-union-unveil-new-retro-3rd-jersey |website=MLSsoccer.com}}</ref><ref>{{cite web |title=Philadelphia Union honors Bethlehem Steel soccer club on new jerseys |url=http://www.lehighvalleylive.com/sports/index.ssf/2013/02/philadelphia_union_honor_bethl.html |website=lehighvalleylive.com|date=February 28, 2013 }}</ref><ref>{{cite web |title=Bethlehem, PA Patch – Breaking News, Local News, Events, Schools, Weather, Sports and Shopping |url=http://bethlehem.patch.com/blog_posts/the-philadelphia-union-following-the-ghosts-of-bethlehems-soccer-tradition |access-date=August 17, 2017 |website=Bethlehem, PA Patch |archive-date=April 11, 2013 |archive-url=https://archive.today/20130411145949/http://bethlehem.patch.com/blog_posts/the-philadelphia-union-following-the-ghosts-of-bethlehems-soccer-tradition |url-status=dead }}</ref> The kit was primarily black with white trim, featuring a sublimated Union emblem, and a Bethlehem Steel F.C. jock tag.<ref>{{cite web |title=Philadelphia Union unveil new third jersey, inspired by Bethlehem Steel |url=http://www.philly.com/philly/blogs/thegoalkeeper/Is-this-the-Philadelphia-Unions-new-third-jersey.html |website=Philly.com|date=February 26, 2013 }}</ref><ref>{{cite web |title=Todo Sobre Camisetas: Philadelphia Union Adidas Third Jersey 2013 |url=http://todosobrecamisetas.blogspot.com.ar/2013/02/junto-con-el-toronto-fc-new-york-red.html |website=todosobrecamisetas.blogspot.com.ar}}</ref>

===Sponsorship===

On January 11, 2011, the Philadelphia Union announced a four-year agreement with [[Bimbo Bakeries USA]] to be its official jersey sponsor. The company's U.S. headquarters is located in the Philadelphia suburb of [[Horsham, Pennsylvania|Horsham]], thus providing local and global exposure to the team. It was also announced that Bimbo will be the official bread and baked goods partner of both the Union and Major League Soccer, as well as an overall league sponsor.<ref name="jersey">{{Cite news |date=January 11, 2011 |title=Baking company signs on as official bread and baked goods sponsor of the Union and MLS |publisher=Philadelphia Union |url=http://www.philadelphiaunion.com/news/2011/01/union-partner-bimbo-bakeries-official-jersey-sponsor |access-date=January 11, 2011 |archive-date=January 14, 2011 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20110114003758/http://www.philadelphiaunion.com/news/2011/01/union-partner-bimbo-bakeries-official-jersey-sponsor |url-status=dead }}</ref>

The sponsorship deal is valued at about $12&nbsp;million.<ref name="jersey_philly">{{Cite news |last=Gammage |first=Jeff |date=January 11, 2011 |title=Union soccer team wins sponsorship from Bimbo bakery |work=[[The Philadelphia Inquirer]] |url=http://www.philly.com/inquirer/local/20110111_Union_soccer_team_wins_sponsorship_from_Bimbo_bakery.html |access-date=January 11, 2011}}</ref>

Bimbo and the Union agreed in 2014 to renew their sponsorship arrangement for five years at an annual value of $2.3&nbsp;million.<ref>[http://www.ajc.com/news/sports/pro-sports/atlantas-mls-team-could-shatter-records/ng8Qh/ "AJC Soccer Insider: Atlanta's MLS team could shatter records"], ''Atlanta Journal-Constitution'', August 25, 2014.</ref>
In January 2023, Bimbo Bakeries USA, and the Union agreed on a new multi year partnership, extending their sponsorship once more. The renewed partnership includes the company's subsidiary brand, Thomas' as the additional sponsor for the club's secondary and alternative jerseys.<ref>https://www.philadelphiaunion.com/news/philadelphia-union-and-bimbo-bakeries-usa-renew-official-jersey-partnershi-x3694</ref>

On November 26, 2014, the Union announced the [[Milton, Delaware]]-based [[Dogfish Head Brewery]] as their official beer sponsor.<ref>{{cite web |title=Union announce new corporate partnerships with Dogfish Head Brewery, Musselman's and Delaware Express |url=http://www.philadelphiaunion.com/news/2014/11/union-announce-new-corporate-partnerships-dogfish-head-brewery-musselmans-and-delaware- |website=Philadelphia Union}}</ref> The deal included the establishment of a beer garden at Subaru Park.

{|class="wikitable" style="text-align: center"
|-
! style="background:#071C2C; color:#FFF; border:2px solid #BEA367;" scope="col"|Period
! style="background:#071C2C; color:#FFF; border:2px solid #BEA367;" scope="col"|Kit manufacturer
! style="background:#071C2C; color:#FFF; border:2px solid #BEA367;" scope="col"|Shirt sponsor
! style="background:#071C2C; color:#FFF; border:2px solid #BEA367;" scope="col"|Sleeve sponsor

|-
| 2010
| rowspan="7"|[[Adidas]]
| colspan="2" style="background:#ececec; color:gray | —
|-
| 2011–2019
| rowspan="3"|[[Bimbo Bakeries USA|Bimbo]]
| style="background:#ececec; color:gray | —
|-
| 2020–2021
| [[Subaru]]
|-
| 2022
|style="background:#ececec; color:gray | –
|-
| 2023
| rowspan="4"| [[Bimbo Bakeries USA|Bimbo]] / [[Thomas']]
|style="background:#ececec; color:gray | –
|- 
| 2024–present
| [[Independence Blue Cross]]<ref>{{cite web | url=https://www.philadelphiaunion.com/news/philadelphia-union-independence-blue-cross-renew-partnership-sleeve-patch | title=Philadelphia Union and Independence Blue Cross Renew Official Partnership with Landmark Sleeve Patch Deal }}</ref>
|}

== Stadium ==
* [[Subaru Park]]; [[Chester, Pennsylvania]] (2010–present)
* [[Lincoln Financial Field]]; [[Philadelphia]] (2010)
[[File:PPL Park Interior from the River End 2010.10.02 (cropped).jpg|right|thumb|A view of [[Subaru Park]] from the River End supporters' section]]
The Union play most of their games at [[Subaru Park]] (formerly Talen Energy Stadium, and prior to that PPL Park), an 18,500-seat [[soccer-specific stadium]] located at the southwesterly corner of the [[Commodore Barry Bridge]] ([[U.S. Route 322]]). The structure was designed by [[Rossetti Architects]] and the ICON Venue Group, with the actual construction contracted to the [[Ardmore, Pennsylvania|Ardmore]]-based T.N. Ward Company. Subaru Park's design allows clear views of the Delaware River for approximately sixty percent of its spectators, and is the centerpiece of Chester's urban renewal process. The [[United States Environmental Protection Agency|Environmental Protection Agency]] (EPA) worked with the city of Chester to ensure that construction activities did not impact the nearby parking facility which had been the site of the [[Wade Dump]], a previously polluted [[Superfund]] site.<ref name="EPA">{{cite web |title=Wade (ABM) Chester, PA |url=https://cumulis.epa.gov/supercpad/cursites/csitinfo.cfm?id=0301343 |access-date=July 2, 2018 |website=www.cumulis.epa.gov}}</ref> Ahead of the 2025 season, Subaru Park underwent upgrades to enhance the matchday experience. A fully new sound system was installed, replacing original speakers and adding extra ones outside the stadium gates for clearer audio throughout the venue. Additional improvements include new premium seating, expanded hospitality spaces, and a wider selection of food and beverage options, all aimed at improving the overall atmosphere for fans.<ref>{{Cite web |last=Sullivan |first=Sean |date=2025-03-01 |title=What’s New at Subaru Park for the Union’s 2025 Season |url=https://philadelphiasoccernow.com/2025/03/01/whats-new-at-subaru-park-for-the-unions-2025-season/ |access-date=2025-04-21 |website=Philadelphia Soccer Now |language=en-US}}</ref>

In addition to Subaru Park, the Union also plays select games at [[Lincoln Financial Field]], the home stadium of the [[National Football League|NFL]]'s [[Philadelphia Eagles]] and the [[NCAA]]'s [[Temple University]] Owls football team. Prior to the completion of the then PPL Park, the Union played their home opener at Lincoln Financial Field on April 10, 2010, against [[D.C. United]] as well as their May 15 match against [[FC Dallas]]. Originally just scheduled to play only the home opener at Lincoln Financial Field, the second game was played there due to construction delays at Subaru Park. Lincoln Financial Field remains the team's secondary home, for matches with anticipated high attendances, such as a friendly against [[Manchester United]], during their 2010 tour of North America.<ref>{{cite web |title=Union to host Manchester United at the Linc |url=http://www.philly.com/dailynews/sports/20100507_Union_to_host_Manchester_United_at_the_Linc.html |url-status=dead |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20100508231535/http://www.philly.com/dailynews/sports/20100507_Union_to_host_Manchester_United_at_the_Linc.html |archive-date=May 8, 2010}}</ref> For the home opener, the team limited ticket sales to the lower bowl and club sections, totaling about 37,500 seats.<ref>{{Cite news |last=Gammage |first=Jeff |date=September 23, 2009 |title=Linc to host first Phila. Union soccer game |work=Philadelphia Inquirer |url=http://www.philly.com/philly/sports/soccer/20090923_Linc_to_host_first_Phila__Union_soccer_game.html |access-date=September 23, 2009}}</ref> On June 27, the Union officially opened their home with a 3–2 win over [[Seattle Sounders FC]].<ref>{{cite web |title=A Decisive Victory: Philadelphia Union 3 – Seattle Sounders 1 |date=June 30, 2010 |url=http://www.brotherlygame.com/2010/6/30/1542844/a-decisive-victory-philadelphia |access-date=August 17, 2017}}</ref> Lincoln Financial Field also hosts international friendlies involving teams other than the Union; the most recent being [[Real Madrid]] against the [[Scottish Premier League]]'s [[Celtic F.C.]] in August 2012. Celtic FC met with the Union in their first international friendly in July 2010.

=== Training facility ===

The Philadelphia Union training fields are right outside Subaru Park; Chester, Pennsylvania. The training complex features 2 grass fields that were constructed in fall 2014. Prior to having dedicated training fields, the Union was practicing at a nearby municipal park called Chester Park or directly at Subaru Park.<ref>{{cite web |title=Persistence pays off as Philadelphia Union begin construction on training facility at PPL Park |url=http://www.mlssoccer.com/news/article/2014/08/27/persistence-pays-philadelphia-union-begin-construction-training-facility-ppl |access-date=August 18, 2015 |archive-date=August 30, 2014 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20140830002958/http://www.mlssoccer.com/news/article/2014/08/27/persistence-pays-philadelphia-union-begin-construction-training-facility-ppl |url-status=dead }}</ref>

In 2016, the Philadelphia Union opened a 16,500 square foot training facility and offices built in the former machine shop of the [[Chester Waterside Station of the Philadelphia Electric Company]].<ref>{{cite web |title=Philadelphia Union Announce Naming Rights Partner for Power Training Complex |url=https://www.philadelphiaunion.com/post/2016/10/13/philadelphia-union-announce-naming-rights-partner-power-training-complex |access-date=August 25, 2017 |website=www.philadelphiaunion.com}}</ref>

In February 2023, the club announced WSFS Bank Sportsplex, a new $55 million indoor-outdoor training facility scheduled to open in 2024.<ref>{{cite web |url=https://www.philadelphiaunion.com/news/philadelphia-union-announce-wsfs-bank-sportsplex |title=Philadelphia Union Announce WSFS Bank Sportsplex |website=Philadelphia Union |date=February 23, 2023 |access-date=2024-11-24}}</ref> The 170,000 square foot complex includes a 100,000 square foot indoor facility featuring a FIFA-regulation indoor pitch, two artificial turf fields, a 20,000 square foot performance center, and will serve as the permanent home for the Philadelphia Union Academy and Philadelphia Union II.<ref>{{cite web |url=https://www.inquirer.com/soccer/philadelphia-union-wsfs-bank-sportsplex-training-facility-20230223.html |title=Union unveil plans for $55 million WSFS Bank Sportsplex training facility |website=Philadelphia Inquirer |date=February 23, 2023 |access-date=2024-11-24}}</ref> Located adjacent to Subaru Park, the facility represents one of the largest investments in a MLS training facility to date and will be used year-round for both professional and youth development.<ref>{{cite web |url=https://www.sportsbusinessjournal.com/Daily/Issues/2023/02/23/Facilities/philadelphia-union-wsfs-bank-sportsplex.aspx |title=Philadelphia Union unveils plans for $55M training complex |website=Sports Business Journal |date=February 23, 2023 |access-date=2024-11-24}}</ref>

== Youth development ==

=== Second team ===
{{main|Philadelphia Union II}}

On August 19, 2015, the team announced that they would operate a reserve team in [[Bethlehem, Pennsylvania]] that will compete in the [[United Soccer League]] (USL) starting in 2016 with matches being played at Lehigh University's [[Goodman Stadium]].<ref>{{Citation |title=Philadelphia Union Announce 2016 USL Expansion Team |date=August 18, 2015 |url=http://www.philadelphiaunion.com/news/2015/08/philadelphia-union-announce-2016-usl-expansion-team |publisher=philadelphiaunion.com |access-date=August 19, 2015 |archive-date=August 21, 2015 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20150821001042/http://www.philadelphiaunion.com/news/2015/08/philadelphia-union-announce-2016-usl-expansion-team |url-status=dead }}.</ref> As a part of the announcement, the Union agreed to dissolve their partnership with the [[Harrisburg City Islanders]].<ref>{{Citation |title=Harrisburg City Islanders and Philadelphia Union Agree to Dissolve Five-Year Exclusive Partnership |date=August 19, 2015 |url=http://cityislanders.com/club-news/harrisburg-city-islanders-and-philadelphia-union-agree-to-dissolve-five-year-exclusive-partnership/ |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20150906094008/http://cityislanders.com/club-news/harrisburg-city-islanders-and-philadelphia-union-agree-to-dissolve-five-year-exclusive-partnership/ |publisher=cityislanders.com |archive-date=September 6, 2015 |url-status=dead}}.</ref>
On October 27, 2015, Bethlehem Steel FC's name, crest, and colors were officially announced during a ceremony held at the ArtsQuest at SteelStacks. "Steel FC" alludes to the historical [[Bethlehem Steel F.C. (1907–30)|Bethlehem Steel F.C.]] soccer club, which played from 1907 to 1930. The name was chosen following a fan poll held between September 8, 2015, and September 30, 2015. In December 2019, the Union announced that the Bethlehem Steel identity would be retired ahead of the 2020 season and the club would become known as Philadelphia Union II. On December 6, 2021, the [[Philadelphia Union II|Union II]] announced the team would join the newly established [[MLS Next Pro]].

=== Philadelphia Union Academy ===
[[File:CINvBST 2018-06-13 - Derrick Jones (31507296808) (cropped).jpg|thumb|upright|Former academy player [[Derrick Jones (soccer)|Derrick Jones]] also played for [[Philadelphia Union II]] from 2016 to 2019]]
The Philadelphia Union operates an elite youth Academy<ref>{{cite web |title=Academy &#124; PhiladelphiaUnion.com |url=https://www.philadelphiaunion.com/academy/about |website=Philadelphia Union |access-date=August 15, 2021}}</ref> training and competition program starting with the Under-9 age group and running through Under-17, after which players graduate to [[Philadelphia Union II|Union II]],<ref>{{cite web |last=Tim |first=Jones |date=August 26, 2020 |title=The end of Union Academy amateur U18/19s |url=https://phillysoccerpage.net/2020/08/26/the-end-of-union-academy-amateur-u18-19s/ |website=The Philly Soccer Page}}</ref> the Philadelphia Union's second team.

As for competition, the Union participates in [[MLS Next]] starting with the Under-13 age group. MLS Next is an elite North American youth soccer league organized, managed, and controlled by Major League Soccer. The league was launched in 2020. The Union's younger age groups from Under-9 through Under-12 participate in various regional leagues and tournaments, often playing one year up. The Union Academy teams train and compete in [[Wayne, Pennsylvania]], as well as in [[Chester, Pennsylvania]], home of Philadelphia Union's first team organization.

While the Union's competition rosters in MLS Next are composed of boys teams representing age groups Under-13 through Under-17, the Union Academy is unusual in that with many of its young players are competing with and even starting for the Union's USL Championship team, Union II. Widely considered one of the top youth academies<ref>{{cite web |last=Kerr |first=David |date=March 27, 2020 |title=2020 RANKING OF MLS ACADEMIES FINAL 10–1 |url=https://chasingacup.com/2020-ranking-of-mls-academies-final-10-1/ |website=Chasing A Cup}}</ref> affiliated with an MLS club, the Union Academy has seen success in tournaments both domestic<ref>{{cite web |date=December 2, 2019 |title=Union Academy U12s defeat LAFC, win GA Cup |url=https://www.philadelphiaunion.com/academy/post/2019/12/02/union-academy-u12s-defeat-lafc-win-ga-cup}}</ref> and international.<ref>{{cite web |date=January 27, 2020 |title=Union Academy U12s Reach Semi-Finals Iber Cup |url=https://www.philadelphiaunion.com/academy/post/2020/01/27/union-academy-u-12s-reach-semifinals-iber-cup}}</ref>

The Union Academy sources talent internally through the Union Junior Academy,<ref>{{cite web |title=Union Pre-Academy |url=https://www.philadelphiaunion.com/academy/pre-academy |access-date=August 15, 2021}}</ref> as well as externally through well-regarded local area programs such as FC Delco,<ref>{{cite web |date=June 22, 2020 |title=Union Academy Announces Signings from FC Delco |url=https://www.instagram.com/p/CBv5JGAjjJc/ |archive-url=https://ghostarchive.org/iarchive/s/instagram/CBv5JGAjjJc |archive-date=December 26, 2021 |url-access=registration}}{{cbignore}}</ref> Real Jersey FC,<ref>{{cite web |date=June 19, 2020 |title=Union Academy Announces Signings from Real JFC |url=https://www.instagram.com/p/CBnpjWmjhsL/ |archive-url=https://ghostarchive.org/iarchive/s/instagram/CBnpjWmjhsL |archive-date=December 26, 2021 |url-access=registration}}{{cbignore}}</ref> and The SWAG.<ref>{{cite web |title=The SWAG |url=https://www.the-swag.org/home/ |website=The SWAG |access-date=August 15, 2021}}</ref> Families have even been known to relocate<ref>{{cite web |date=September 14, 2017 |title=Union Academy residency program attracting top youth players from outside MLS territories |url=https://www.brotherlygame.com/2017/9/14/16306062/philadelphia-union-academy-residency-program-attracting-top-youth-players-outside-mls-territories |website=Brotherly Game}}</ref> to Pennsylvania to take advantage of the many benefits provided through the Union Academy such as admittance to the YSC Academy, a world class soccer training and college preparatory school that operates in an alliance with the Union Academy.

The Philadelphia Union Academy has produced numerous players for the Philadelphia Union, Union II, elite NCAA programs, and professional clubs across the world.<ref>{{cite web |title=Academy &#124; PhiladelphiaUnion.com |url=https://www.philadelphiaunion.com/academy/homegrown |website=Philadelphia Union |access-date=August 15, 2021}}</ref> Philadelphia Union midfielder [[Quinn Sullivan (soccer)|Quinn Sullivan]] made club history by becoming the first Homegrown player to reach 100 MLS appearances. Sullivan, who signed as a Homegrown player in 2020, debuted for the Union on May 1, 2021, against New York City FC. His first start came six weeks later, highlighted by a bicycle-kick goal against [[Chicago Fire FC|Chicago Fire]]. Sullivan’s progression through the Union Academy and Union II led to a breakout 2024 season, where he recorded double-digit assists and joined an elite group of young MLS playmakers. On MLS Decision Day 2024, he became the Union’s youngest player to achieve 10 goals and 10 assists in a single season.<ref>{{Cite web |last=Union |first=Philadelphia |title=Quinn Sullivan becomes first homegrown in club history to reach century mark |url=https://www.philadelphiaunion.com/news/quinn-sullivan-becomes-first-homegrown-in-club-history-to-reach-century-mark |access-date=2025-04-21 |website=Philadelphia Union |language=en}}</ref> The academy has also produced several players who have successfully transitioned to European leagues. [[Brenden Aaronson]] moved to [[FC Red Bull Salzburg|Red Bull Salzburg]] in 2021, where he quickly became a key player before transferring to [[Leeds United F.C.|Leeds United]] in 2022.<ref>{{Cite web |last=mlssoccer |title=Former Philadelphia Union teammates Brenden Aaronson, Mark McKenzie make European league debuts {{!}} MLSSoccer.com |url=https://www.mlssoccer.com/news/former-philadelphia-union-teammates-brenden-aaronson-mark-mckenzie-make-european |access-date=2025-04-21 |website=mlssoccer |language=en}}</ref> [[Mark McKenzie (soccer, born 1999)|Mark McKenzie]], another Union Academy graduate, signed with Genk in Belgium in 2021, where he established himself as a reliable defender. His performances in the [[Belgian Pro League]] earned him international recognition, claiming his role in the [[United States men's national soccer team|U.S. Men’s National Team]].<ref>{{Cite web |last=mlssoccer |title=Former Philadelphia Union teammates Brenden Aaronson, Mark McKenzie make European league debuts {{!}} MLSSoccer.com |url=https://www.mlssoccer.com/news/former-philadelphia-union-teammates-brenden-aaronson-mark-mckenzie-make-european |access-date=2025-04-21 |website=mlssoccer |language=en}}</ref>

==== UPSL ====

In late 2022 it was announced that the Union would enter a team in the [[United Premier Soccer League]] for the Fall 2022 season with home games played at YSC Sports in Wayne, PA.<ref>{{cite web |last1=Ralph |first1=Matthew |title=Union Development Squad kicks off first season in UPSL on Sunday |url=https://www.brotherlygame.com/philadelphia-union-academy/2022/8/26/23323719/union-development-squad-kicks-off-first-season-in-upsl-on-sunday |website=Brotherly Game |access-date=21 June 2023 |language=en |date=26 August 2022}}</ref> '''Philadelphia Union UDS''' (Union Development Squad) competed in the Northeast Division of the American Conference, finishing the regular season with a record of 9–0–3 and qualifying for the postseason.<ref>{{cite web |title=Fall 2022 Standings |url=https://premier.upsl.com/standings/?season=78#:~:text=Philadelphia%20Union%20UDS |website=United Premier Soccer League |access-date=21 June 2023 |language=en}}</ref> UDS fell in the American Conference final to [[New Jersey Alliance FC]] in a penalty kick shootout.<ref>{{cite web |title=News: NJ Alliance are Crowned American Champions - UPSL Northeast |url=https://upslnortheast.soccershift.com/news/nj-alliance-are-crowned-american-champions |website=upslnortheast.soccershift.com |access-date=21 June 2023 |language=en |date=12 November 2022}}</ref>

In February 2023, the Union Development Squad joined the [[National Premier Soccer League]] for the [[2023 National Premier Soccer League season|2023 season]].<ref>{{cite web |title=Philadelphia Union Development Squad Joins the NPSL |url=https://www.npsl.com/19911/ |website=National Premier Soccer League |access-date=21 June 2023 |language=en |date=2 February 2023}}</ref> The team was placed in the Keystone East Conference.

=== YSC Academy ===

Between 70 and 80 of the Philadelphia Union Academy's players attend private school [https://www.yscacademy.com/ YSC Academy]<ref>{{cite web |title=YSC Academy – Our Results |url=https://www.yscacademy.com/soccer/ |website=YSC Academy}}</ref> which was founded by Philadelphia Union investor Richie Graham<ref>{{cite web |title=Philadelphia Union – Richie Graham Bio |url=https://www.philadelphiaunion.com/club/bio-graham |access-date=August 15, 2021}}</ref> in September 2013<ref>{{cite web |last=Zeitlin |first=Dave |date=September 3, 2013 |title=Philadelphia Union's YSC Academy opens its doors: "It's a landmark day" for the club's future |url=https://www.mlssoccer.com/post/2013/09/03/philadelphia-unions-ysc-academy-opens-its-doors-its-landmark-day-clubs-future |website=MLS Soccer}}</ref> as an innovative, first-of its-kind, soccer-specific school for elite soccer players from grades 7 through 12. The school is located at the [[Subaru Park|Union's training complex]] in Chester, Pennsylvania and is designed for student-athletes who aspire to play professional-level soccer. YSC Academy's first graduating class was in 2015. A substantial portion of the school's graduates have gone on to play professionally for the Philadelphia Union and other teams, with the balance going to college.<ref>{{cite web |title=Philadelphia Union "A Best in MLS Academy" – Fast Facts |url=https://www.philadelphiaunion.com/academy/home |access-date=August 15, 2021}}</ref>

== Club culture ==

=== Supporters ===

Grassroots support was instrumental to the founding of the Philadelphia Union and the construction of Subaru Park. This backing came in the form of a [[supporters group]] known as the [[Sons of Ben (MLS supporters association)|Sons of Ben]], which was founded in January 2007. The Sons of Ben petitioned Major League Soccer to expand to the Philadelphia market until the official expansion announcement was made in January 2008. Named for [[Founding Fathers of the United States|Founding Father]] and Philadelphia icon, [[Benjamin Franklin]], the group was included in the expansion press conference, singing their anthem, "[[I'm Looking Over a Four Leaf Clover]]", and closing the event by presenting scarves to the ownership group.<ref>{{cite web |date=February 29, 2008 |title=Sons of Ben rejoice in Philly expansion |url=http://web.mlsnet.com/news/mls_news.jsp?ymd=20080229&content_id=141210&vkey=news_mls&fext=.jsp |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20080302112415/http://web.mlsnet.com/news/mls_news.jsp?ymd=20080229&content_id=141210&vkey=news_mls&fext=.jsp |archive-date=March 2, 2008 |access-date=March 5, 2008}}</ref> They were also present on May 11, 2009, for the naming ceremony at [[Philadelphia City Hall|City Hall]].  The Sons of Ben emphasize four main principles, be loud, be proud, be smart, and be passionate. Supporters are expected be fully engaged and create an intimidating atmosphere for opponents while avoiding violent, sexist, racist, or homophobic behavior.<ref>{{Cite web |title=Home Match Guide |url=https://www.sonsofben.com/home-match-guide |access-date=2025-04-21 |website=Sons of Ben |language=en-US}}</ref>

While the Sons of Ben are the predominant and official supporters group, smaller supporters groups also exist. These include the Tammany Saints (sections 101 and 133), the IllegitimateS (section 133), the Corner Creeps (section 134), the Bridge Crew (sections 120–121),<ref>{{cite web |date=February 7, 2011 |title=Philly Soccer Page&nbsp;– The Other Supporters Groups |url=http://www.phillysoccerpage.net/2011/02/07/the-other-supporters-groups/ |access-date=December 3, 2011 |publisher=Phillysoccerpage.net}}</ref> La Union Latina (section 114),<ref>{{cite web |date=February 7, 2013 |title=La Union Latina Helping Bridge the Gap |url=http://www.theuniondues.net/2013/02/07/la-union-latina-helping-bridge-the-gap/ |access-date=July 24, 2014}}</ref> The Keystone State Ultras (section 140), and the Chester Soccer Casuals (section 140).

The supporters' culture has grown significantly since the team's founding, with the Sons of Ben reaching over 4,000 members by 2023.<ref>{{cite web |url=https://www.philadelphiaunion.com/fans/sons-of-ben |title=Sons of Ben Supporters Group |website=Philadelphia Union |access-date=2024-11-24}}</ref> The group has become known for their distinctive tifo displays, including a notable 20,000 square foot display for the 2023 MLS Cup Eastern Conference Final.<ref>{{cite web |url=https://www.inquirer.com/soccer/philadelphia-union-sons-of-ben-tifo-display-fc-cincinnati-20231204.html |title=Union supporters unfurl massive tifo display for Eastern Conference final |website=Philadelphia Inquirer |date=December 4, 2023 |access-date=2024-11-24}}</ref> The various supporters groups collaborate on match day activities, charity initiatives, and the annual 'Help Kick Hunger' fundraiser, which has raised over $100,000 for Chester community food programs since its inception.<ref>{{cite web |url=https://www.sonsofben.com/help-kick-hunger |title=Help Kick Hunger Initiative |website=Sons of Ben |access-date=2024-11-24}}</ref>

=== Rivalries ===
{{more|D.C. United–Philadelphia Union rivalry}}
The Philadelphia Union's primary rivals are the [[New York Red Bulls]] and [[New York City FC]]. These rivalries exist primarily because of geographical proximity and the traditional animosities between the metropolitan areas of Philadelphia and New York City in other [[Major professional sports leagues in the United States and Canada|professional sports leagues]].

Most Union fans consider the New York Red Bulls to be a rival due to the team's stadium being the closest in proximity to the Union's, leading to substantial away support from each team's fan bases every time the two sides play. There have been many consequential games played between the two sides, including the Union's first playoff win in team history. However, many New York Red Bulls fans do not consider the Union to be one of their main rivals, as NYCFC and D.C. United are their main antagonists.

In recent years, the Philadelphia Union's most meaningful rivalry has been with [[New York City FC]].<ref>{{cite web|url=https://skyscraperblues.com/2021/12/31/legitimate-rivalry-formed-nycfc-philadelphia-union/ |title=Has a legitimate rivalry been formed between NYCFC and the Philadelphia Union? |publisher=Skyscraperblues.com |date= December 31, 2021|access-date=2022-08-22}}</ref><ref>{{cite web |last=Strand |first=Oliver |url=https://www.hudsonriverblue.com/2022/3/18/22979225/philadelphia-hates-nycfc |title=The NYCFC and Philadelphia Union rivalry grows |publisher=Hudson River Blue |date=2022-03-18 |access-date=2022-08-22 |archive-date=August 21, 2022 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20220821202008/https://www.hudsonriverblue.com/2022/3/18/22979225/philadelphia-hates-nycfc |url-status=dead }}</ref><ref>{{cite web|last=Ralph |first=Matthew |url=https://www.brotherlygame.com/2022/3/16/22980833/community-corner-how-big-of-a-rival-has-nycfc-become |title=Community Corner: How big of a rival has NYCFC become? |publisher=Brotherly Game |date=2022-03-16 |access-date=2022-08-22}}</ref> Though early fixtures between the two clubs did spark tensions between the two sets of fans, the rivalry reached a new level after New York City controversially eliminated the Union in the [[2021 MLS Cup Playoffs|2021 Eastern Conference Final]], after the latter lost 11 players, including six starters, due to MLS's COVID-19 protocols. The Union would avenge their 2021 Eastern Conference final loss, defeating NYCFC 3–1 at home to win the [[2022 MLS Cup Playoffs|2022 Eastern Conference final]], and earn their first ever appearance in an [[MLS Cup 2022|MLS Cup final]].

The Union also has several other minor rivals. A smaller rivalry with [[D.C. United]] took shape early on due to their geographical proximity compared to other teams in the league. Other teams such as the [[New England Revolution]] and [[Atlanta United FC]] have been considered rivals to some extent due to many intense and important games against them, and some controversial moments.<ref>{{Cite web |last=Minton |first=Sam |date=2021-09-14 |title=Henry Kessler explains why "the ball had to go" |url=https://www.thebentmusket.com/2021/9/14/22671091/henry-kessler-explains-why-the-ball-had-to-go |access-date=2023-02-16 |website=The Bent Musket |language=en}}</ref> The Union have also had eras of rivalries with the [[Seattle Sounders FC|Seattle Sounders]] and [[Los Angeles FC|LAFC]], despite playing in different MLS conferences.

[[FC Cincinnati]] is another rivalry that has intensified in recent years due to multiple high-profile departures from Philadelphia to Cincinnati. The former Union assistant coach, [[Pat Noonan]] became the head coach of Cincinnati in 2022, while [[Chris Albright]], an important figure in Philadelphia's front office, took over as the general manager of Cincinnati. As well as several key players making the switch over, which fueled more competitive tension between the clubs. Matches between these clubs have become increasingly intense with both teams competing in the Eastern Conference.<ref>{{Cite web |last=Cincinnati |first=F. C. |title=PREVIEW{{!}} FC Cincinnati visit Philadelphia Union for first road trip of 2025 MLS season |url=https://www.fccincinnati.com/news/preview-fc-cincinnati-visit-philadelphia-union-for-first-road-trip-of-2025-mls-season |access-date=2025-04-21 |website=FC Cincinnati |language=en}}</ref>

== Broadcasting ==
{{main|List of Philadelphia Union broadcasters}}

Until the 2022 season, [[WPHL-TV]] and [[WPVI-TV]] were the main English-language television broadcasters for Union matches not carried by Major League Soccer's national media partners, with [[JP Dellacamera]] on play-by-play. The broadcasts were produced by WPVI, and part of the package was aired by the station.<ref>{{Cite news |date=December 20, 2017 |title=PHL17 Announces New Broadcast Partnership with Philadelphia Union |language=en-US |work=PHL17.com |url=http://phl17.com/2017/12/19/phl17-announces-new-broadcast-partnership-with-philadelphia-union/ |access-date=March 4, 2018}}</ref> Prior to the 2018 season, CSN Philadelphia (now [[NBC Sports Philadelphia]]) produced the games for 6ABC, removing the NBC peacock from its graphics.

During the 2012 MLS season, seventeen select home and road matches were broadcast on radio by [[WTEL (AM)|WIP]]. The Union also collaborated with WIP on a weekly hour-long soccer show.<ref>{{cite web |date=October 20, 2011 |title=Union ink radio deal with SportsRadio 610 WIP |url=http://www.philadelphiaunion.com/news/2011/10/union-ink-radio-deal-sportsradio-610-wip |access-date=October 21, 2011 |publisher=Philadelphia Union Communications}}</ref> Beginning with the [[MLS is Back Tournament]] in July 2020, the Union moved to [[WDAS (AM)|WDAS]].<ref>{{cite web |date=July 9, 2020 |title=MLS Names Philly Broadcast Partner |url=https://radioink.com/2020/07/09/mls-names-philly-broadcast-partner/ |access-date=July 12, 2020 |website=Radio Ink |language=en-US}}</ref>

From 2023, every Union match is available via [[MLS Season Pass]] on the [[Apple TV app]]. The Apple TV MLS package eliminates blackout restrictions, allowing fans to watch games anywhere with a subscription. Additionally, union season ticket holders receive free access to the Apple TV MLS package. Apple TV’s partnership with MLS could enhance sports betting by incorporating real-time analytics into broadcasts such as player movements, possession percentages, expected goals, and other stats.<ref>{{Cite web |last=Kohler |first=Katie |date=2022-06-15 |title=What the Apple TV, MLS Deal Means for Union Fans and Soccer Betting |url=https://www.playpennsylvania.com/what-the-apple-tv-deal-means-mls-betting-philadelphia-union/ |access-date=2025-04-22 |website=Play Pennsylvania |language=en-US}}</ref>

== Players ==
{{Further|All-time Philadelphia Union roster}}
<!----------------------------- READ THIS NOTICE FIRST BEFORE EDITING ----------------------------------
 – Do NOT add new players before their signing is officially announced by the club
 – Do NOT remove players before their exit is officially announced by the club
 – Do NOT add or change squad numbers until it is official on the Philadelphia Union website squad list
 – Pre-season numbers can be added temporarily with A REFERENCE
 – This is Wikipedia, not a football gazette. Anything unconfirmed and unsourced will be removed on sight
 ------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------>

=== Current roster ===
{{updated|May 9, 2025}}<ref name="Union Roster">{{cite web |title=Roster |url=https://www.philadelphiaunion.com/roster/ |access-date=September 28, 2021 |website=philadelphiaunion.com |publisher=Philadelphia Union}}</ref>
{{fs start|nonumber=|bg=071C2C|color=FFFFFF|border=BEA367}}
{{fs player|no=1|nat=GER|pos=GK|name=[[Oliver Semmle]]}}
{{Fs player|no=2|nat=ARG|pos=DF|name=[[Ian Glavinovich]]|other=on loan [[Newell's Old Boys]]}}
{{Fs player|no=4|nat=SRB|pos=MF|name=[[Jovan Lukić (footballer, born 2002)|Jovan Lukić]]}}
{{Fs player|no=5|nat=NOR|pos=DF|name=[[Jakob Glesnes]]}}
{{Fs player|no=6|nat=USA|pos=MF|name=[[Cavan Sullivan]]|other=[[Homegrown Player Rule (Major League Soccer)|HG]]}}
{{Fs player|no=7|nat=DEN|pos=FW|name=[[Mikael Uhre]]|other=[[Designated Player Rule|DP]]}}
{{Fs player|no=8|nat=VEN|pos=MF|name=[[Jesús Bueno]]}}
{{Fs player|no=9|nat=ISR|pos=FW|name=[[Tai Baribo]]}}
{{Fs player|no=11|nat=USA|pos=MF|name=[[Alejandro Bedoya]]}}
{{Fs player|no=12|nat=USA|pos=DF|name=[[Isaiah LeFlore]]}}
{{Fs player|no=14|nat=USA|pos=MF|name=[[Jeremy Rafanello]]|other=[[Homegrown Player Rule (Major League Soccer)|HG]]}}
{{Fs player|no=15|nat=CMR|pos=DF|name=[[Olivier Mbaizo]]}}
{{Fs player|no=16|nat=USA|pos=MF|name=[[Ben Bender]]}}
{{Fs player|no=17|nat=USA|pos=MF|name=CJ Olney|other=[[Homegrown Player Rule (Major League Soccer)|HG]]}}
{{Fs player|no=18|nat=JAM|pos=GK|name=[[Andre Blake]]}}
{{Fs player|no=19|nat=USA|pos=MF|name=[[Indiana Vassilev]]}}
{{fs mid|nonumber=|bg=071C2C|color=FFFFFF|border=BEA367}}
{{Fs player|no=20|nat=URU|pos=FW|name=[[Bruno Damiani]]|other=[[Designated Player Rule|DP]]}}
{{Fs player|no=21|nat=HAI|pos=MF|name=[[Danley Jean Jacques]]}}
{{Fs player|no=22|nat=USA|pos=MF|name=David Vazquez|other=[[Homegrown Player Rule (Major League Soccer)|HG]]}}
{{Fs player|no=24|nat=USA|pos=MF|name=Nick Pariano|other=[[Homegrown Player Rule (Major League Soccer)|HG]]}}
{{Fs player|no=25|nat=USA|pos=FW|name=[[Chris Donovan (soccer)|Chris Donovan]]}}
{{Fs player|no=26|nat=USA|pos=DF|name=[[Nathan Harriel]]|other=[[Homegrown Player Rule (Major League Soccer)|HG]]}}
{{Fs player|no=27|nat=GER|pos=DF|name=[[Kai Wagner]]}}
{{Fs player|no=29|nat=RSA|pos=DF|name=[[Olwethu Makhanya]]}}
{{Fs player|no=33|nat=USA|pos=MF|name=[[Quinn Sullivan (soccer)|Quinn Sullivan]]|other=[[Homegrown Player Rule (Major League Soccer)|HG]]}}
{{Fs player|no=35|nat=USA|pos=FW|name=Markus Anderson}}
{{Fs player|no=39|nat=USA|pos=DF|name=Frankie Westfield|other=[[Homegrown Player Rule (Major League Soccer)|HG]]}}
{{Fs player|no=44|nat=USA|pos=DF|name=Neil Pierre|other=[[Homegrown Player Rule (Major League Soccer)|HG]]}}
{{Fs player|no=55|nat=MEX|pos=FW|name=Sal Olivas|other=[[Homegrown Player Rule (Major League Soccer)|HG]]}}
{{Fs player|no=76|nat=USA|pos=GK|name=Andrew Rick|other=[[Homegrown Player Rule (Major League Soccer)|HG]]}}
{{Fs player|no=77|nat=USA|pos=FW|name=Eddy Davis III|other=[[Homegrown Player Rule (Major League Soccer)|HG]]}}
{{fs end|nonumber=|bg=071C2C|color=FFFFFF|border=BEA367}}

<!--
===Out on loan===
{{fs start|nonumber=|bg=071C2C|color=FFFFFF|border=BEA367}}


{{fs end|nonumber=|bg=071C2C|color=FFFFFF|border=BEA367}}
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=== Reserves ===
{{Further|topic=the reserve club|Philadelphia Union II}}

== Management ==
=== Current staff ===
{| class="wikitable"
|-
! style="background:#071C2C; color:#FFF; border:2px solid #BEA367;" text-align:center;"|Position
! style="background:#071C2C; color:#FFF; border:2px solid #BEA367;" text-align:center;"|Staff
! style="background:#071C2C; color:#FFF; border:2px solid #BEA367;" scope="col"|Nationality
|-
| Head Coach || [[Bradley Carnell]] || {{flagu|South Africa}}
|-
| Assistant Coach || Frank Leicht || {{flagu|Germany}}
|-
|Assistant Coach || [[Mitch Hildebrandt]] || {{flagu|United States}}
|-
| Director of Goalkeeping || Phil Wheddon || {{flagu|United Kingdom}}
|-
| Video Analyst || Jay Cooney || {{flagu|United States}}
|-
| Head Athletic Trainer || Paul Rushing || {{flagu|United States}}
|-
| Team Coordinator || [[Josh Gros]] || {{flagu|United States}}
|-
| Sporting Director || Ernst Tanner || {{flagu|Germany}}
|-
| Academy Director || Jon Scheer || {{flagu|United States}}
|-
|}

=== Head coaches ===
{{main|List of Philadelphia Union managers}}
This list includes all those who have managed the club since 2010, when the club joined [[Major League Soccer]] for the first time, whether coaching on a full-time or interim basis. Games played include all [[Major League Soccer|League]], [[Lamar Hunt U.S. Open Cup|Cup]], [[MLS Cup Playoffs|Playoff]], and the win percentage is calculated from the total of games.

{{updated|February 8, 2020}}. ''Includes all competitive matches''

<small>'''M''' = Matches played; '''W''' = Matches won; '''D''' = Matches drawn; '''L''' = Matches lost; </small>

{| class="wikitable" style="text-align:center"
|-
!style="background:#071C2C; color:#FFF; border:2px solid #BEA367;"|Name!!style="background:#071C2C; color:#FFF; border:2px solid #BEA367;"|Nat!!style="background:#071C2C; color:#FFF; border:2px solid #BEA367;"|Tenure!!style="background:#071C2C; color:#FFF; border:2px solid #BEA367;"|M!!style="background:#071C2C; color:#FFF; border:2px solid #BEA367;"|W!!style="background:#071C2C; color:#FFF; border:2px solid #BEA367;"|D!!style="background:#071C2C; color:#FFF; border:2px solid #BEA367;"|L!!style="background:#071C2C; color:#FFF; border:2px solid #BEA367;"|Win!!class="unsortable" style="background:#071C2C; color:#FFF; border:2px solid #BEA367;"|Notes
|-
| align="left"|[[Piotr Nowak]] || align="left"| {{flagu|Poland}} || May 28, 2009 – June 13, 2012 || 78 || 22 || 32 || 24 || |28.21% || –
|-
| align="left"|[[John Hackworth]] || align="left"| {{flagu|United States}} || June 13, 2012 – June 10, 2014 || 77 || 25 || 20 || 32 || |32.47% || Interim coach through August 30, 2012
|-
| align="left"| [[Jim Curtin]] || align="left"| {{flagu|United States}} || June 10, 2014 – November 7, 2024 || 321 || 137 || 79 || 105 ||42.68%|| interim coach through November 7, 2014
|-
|[[Bradley Carnell]]
|{{Flagu|South Africa}}
|January 2, 2025 – Present
|0
|0
|0
|0
|0%
|–
|}

=== Sporting directors ===
{| class="wikitable" style="text-align:center"
|-
!style="background:#071C2C; color:#FFF; border:2px solid #BEA367;"|Name
!style="background:#071C2C; color:#FFF; border:2px solid #BEA367;"|Nation
!style="background:#071C2C; color:#FFF; border:2px solid #BEA367;"|Tenure
!style="background:#071C2C; color:#FFF; border:2px solid #BEA367;"|Notes
|-
| align="left"|[[Diego Gutiérrez (soccer, born 1972)|Diego Gutierrez]] || align="left"| {{flagu|COL}} || December 2010 – July 1, 2012 || As Head of Scouting/Player Development<ref>{{cite web|url=https://www.inquirer.com/philly/blogs/thegoalkeeper/161034746.html |title=Gutierrez undaunted by challenge at Philadelphia |author=Dave Zeitlin |website=MLSsoccer.com |date=December 28, 2010 |access-date=February 20, 2022}}</ref><ref>{{cite web|url=https://www.inquirer.com/philly/blogs/thegoalkeeper/161034746.html |title=Report: Philadelphia Union dismiss scouting director Diego Gutierrez, youth technical director Alecko Eskandarian |author=Jonathan Tannenwald |publisher=The Philadelphia Inquirer |date=July 1, 2012 |access-date=February 20, 2022}}</ref>
|-
| align="left"|[[Nick Sakiewicz]] || align="left"| {{flagu|USA}} || 2012 – October 2, 2015 || As CEO and Operating Partner supported by [[Chris Albright]] as Technical Director<ref>{{cite web|url=https://www.si.com/soccer/2015/10/02/philadelphia-union-nick-nick-sakiewicz-jay-sugarman-mls |title=Nick Sakiewicz era in Philadelphia over as Jay Sugarman seeks change |author=Brian Straus |website=si.com |date=October 2, 2015 |access-date=February 20, 2022}}</ref>
|-
| align="left"|[[Earnie Stewart]] || align="left"| {{flagu|USA}} || October 26, 2015 – July 31, 2018 || Appointed Sporting Director<ref>{{cite web|url=https://www.phillymag.com/news/2015/10/26/philadelphia-union-earnie-stewart/ |title=Union Hire Hall of Famer Earnie Stewart as First Sporting Director |author=Dan McQuade |website=phillymag.com |date=October 26, 2015 |access-date=February 20, 2022}}</ref><ref>{{cite web|url=https://www.inquirer.com/philly/sports/soccer/earnie-stewart-usmnt-mens-national-team-general-manager-philadelphia-union-20180606.html |title=Earnie Stewart leaving Union at end of July to become GM of U.S. men's team |author=Jonathan Tannenwald |publisher=The Philadelphia Inquirer |date=June 6, 2018 |access-date=February 20, 2022}}</ref>
|-
| align="left"|'''Ernst Tanner''' || align="left"| {{flagu|GER}} || August 9, 2018 – ''present'' || Appointed Sporting Director<ref>{{cite web|url=https://www.inquirer.com/philly/sports/soccer/ernst-tanner-union-sporting-director-red-bull-salzburg-20180808.html |title=Ernst Tanner, Red Bull Salzburg academy director, named new Union sporting director |author=Jonathan Tannenwald |publisher=The Philadelphia Inquirer |date=August 8, 2018 |access-date=February 20, 2022}}</ref>
|}

=== Ownership ===

Keystone Sports & Entertainment (S&E) owns the Philadelphia Union. Jay Sugarman, ([[Chief Executive Officer|CEO]]) of iStar Financial, leads this group including Christopher F. Buccini, Robert Buccini, and David B. Pollin&nbsp;– co-founders of the Buccini/Pollin Group; Joseph J. Greco, chairman of the RevSpring technology company and president of Premier Management Services; and David Seltzer, principal and co-founder of the Mercator financial advisors.<ref>{{cite web |title=Club Ownership |url=http://www.philadelphiaunion.com/club/ownership-front-office |access-date=November 15, 2015 |website=Philadelphia Union.com}}</ref> [[Nick Sakiewicz]] was the former CEO and investor in Keystone S&E until October 3, 2015, when Sugarman purchased his shares in the club and discontinued his involvement. His termination was primarily due to his strained relationship with the Union's fanbase, which blamed Sakiewicz for the team's mediocre record.<ref>{{cite web |title=Sakiewicz ouster by Union shows fan base's clout |url=http://www.philly.com/philly/columnists/john_smallwood/20151004_Sakiewicz_s_ouster_by_Union_shows_fan_base_s_clout.html |access-date=October 30, 2015 |website=philly-archives}}</ref><ref>{{cite web |title=City of Brotherly Love embraces MLS |url=http://msn.foxsports.com/soccer/story/7851546/City-of-Brotherly-Love-embraces-MLS |access-date=March 1, 2008 |website=FoxSports.com}}</ref>

On June 15, 2020, it was announced that [[basketball]] player [[Kevin Durant]] had become an investor and community partner for the club, purchasing five percent of the club with potentially another five percent in the near future.<ref name="KevinDurant">{{Cite web |date=June 15, 2020 |title=Kevin Durant Joins the Philadelphia Union As Investor and Community Partner |url=https://www.philadelphiaunion.com/news/kevin-durant-joins-philadelphia-union-investor-and-community-partner |access-date=August 15, 2021 |website=Philadelphia Union}}</ref> Through his company, Thirty Five Ventures, Durant has helped grow the Union’s brand visibility in the broader sports world. He has committed to supporting youth soccer programs, helping expand access to training and facilities for underserved communities. Durant was drawn to the Union’s coaching staff, leadership, and club philosophy, stating that he “connected instantly” with their vision.<ref name="KevinDurant" />

==Honors==

{| class="wikitable"
|-
! style="background:#071C2C; color:#FFF; border:2px solid #BEA367;" scope="col"colspan="3"|National
|-
! style="background:#071C2C; color:#FFF; border:2px solid #BEA367;" scope="col""width:260px"|Competitions
! style="background:#071C2C; color:#FFF; border:2px solid #BEA367;" scope="col""width:80px"|Titles
! style="background:#071C2C; color:#FFF; border:2px solid #BEA367;" scope="col""width:380px"|Seasons
|-
! style="background:#FFF; color:#000; border:2px solid #C39E6D;" scope="col""text-align:center"|[[Supporters' Shield]]
! style="background:#FFF; color:#000; border:2px solid #C39E6D;" scope="col"|1
! style="background:#FFF; color:#000; border:2px solid #C39E6D;" scope="col""text-align:center"|2020
|-
! style="background:#FFF; color:#000; border:2px solid #C39E6D;" scope="col""text-align:center"|[[Eastern Conference (MLS)|Eastern Conference (Playoffs)]]
! style="background:#FFF; color:#000; border:2px solid #C39E6D;" scope="col"|1
! style="background:#FFF; color:#000; border:2px solid #C39E6D;" scope="col""text-align:center"|2022
|-
! style="background:#FFF; color:#000; border:2px solid #C39E6D;" scope="col""text-align:center"|[[Eastern Conference (MLS)|Eastern Conference (Regular Season)]]
! style="background:#FFF; color:#000; border:2px solid #C39E6D;" scope="col"|2
! style="background:#FFF; color:#000; border:2px solid #C39E6D;" scope="col""text-align:center"|2020, 2022
|}

== Team records ==
{{Main|List of Philadelphia Union records and statistics}}

=== Year-by-year ===
{{Main|List of Philadelphia Union seasons}}
This is a partial list of the last five seasons completed by the Union. For the full season-by-season history, see [[List of Philadelphia Union seasons]].
{| class="wikitable" width=100% style="font-size:90%; text-align:center;"
|- style="background:#f0f6ff;"
!rowspan="2"|Season
!colspan="11"|[[Major League Soccer|League]]
!colspan="2"|Position
!rowspan="2"|[[MLS Cup Playoffs|Playoffs]]
!rowspan="2"|[[U.S. Open Cup|USOC]]
!rowspan="2" colspan="2"|[[CONCACAF|Continental]] / Other
!rowspan="2"|[[Major League Soccer attendance|Average <br /> attendance]]
!colspan="2"|Top goalscorer(s)
|-
!Div
!League
!Pld
!W
!L
!D
!GF
!GA
!GD
!Pts
!PPG
!Conf.
!Overall
!Name(s)
!Goals
|-
|'''[[2019 Philadelphia Union season|2019]]'''
| rowspan="5" | 1
| [[2019 Major League Soccer season|MLS]]
| 34
| 16
| 11
| 7
| 58
| 50
| +8
| 55
| 1.62
| bgcolor=CFAA88 | 3rd
| 5th
| [[2019 MLS Cup Playoffs|QF]]
| [[2019 U.S. Open Cup|R4]]
| colspan = 2|DNQ
| 17,111
|align="left" | {{flagicon|POL}} [[Kacper Przybyłko]]
| 15
|-
|'''[[2020 Philadelphia Union season|2020]]'''
| [[2020 Major League Soccer season|MLS]]
| 23
| 14
| 4
| 5
| 44
| 20
| +24
| 47
| 2.04
| bgcolor=gold | 1st
| bgcolor=gold | 1st
| [[2020 MLS Cup Playoffs|R1]]
| [[2020 U.S. Open Cup|NH]]
| [[Leagues Cup]]<hr/>[[MLS is Back Tournament]]
| [[2020 Leagues Cup|NH]]<hr/>[[MLS is Back Tournament|SF]]
| 2,775
|align="left" | {{flagicon|BRA}} [[Sergio Santos (footballer, born 1994)|Sergio Santos]]
| 11
|-
|'''[[2021 Philadelphia Union season|2021]]'''
| [[2021 Major League Soccer season|MLS]]
| 34
| 14
| 12
| 8
| 48
| 35
| +13
| 54
| 1.59
| bgcolor=silver | 2nd
| 6th
| [[2021 MLS Cup Playoffs|CF]]
| [[2021 U.S. Open Cup|NH]]
| [[2021 CONCACAF Champions League|CCL]]
| [[2021 CONCACAF Champions League|SF]]
| 12,903
|align="left" | {{flagicon|POL}} [[Kacper Przybyłko]]
| 17
|- 
|'''[[2022 Philadelphia Union season|2022]]''' 
| [[2022 Major League Soccer season|MLS]]
| 34
| 19
| 5
| 10
| 74
| 26
| +46
| 67
| 1.97
| bgcolor=gold | 1st
| bgcolor=silver | 2nd
| bgcolor=silver |[[2022 MLS Cup Playoffs|RU]]
| [[2022 U.S. Open Cup|R32]]
| [[Leagues Cup]]
| [[2022 Leagues Cup|NH]]
| 18,126
|align="left" | {{flagicon|HUN}} [[Dániel Gazdag]]
| 24
|-
|'''[[2023 Philadelphia Union season|2023]]''' 
| [[2023 Major League Soccer season|MLS]]
| 34
| 15
| 10
| 9
| 57
| 41
| +16
| 55
| 1.62
| 4th
| 5th
|[[2023 MLS Cup playoffs|QF]]
| [[2023 U.S. Open Cup|R32]]
| [[2023 CONCACAF Champions League|SF]]
|style=background:#CFAA88| [[2023 Leagues Cup|3rd]]
| 18,907
|align="left" | {{flagicon|HUN}} [[Dániel Gazdag]]
| 22
|-
|}
<small>{{note|1}}1. '''Avg. attendance''' include statistics from league matches only.</small><br/>
<small>{{note|2}}2. '''Top goalscorer(s)''' includes all goals scored in League, [[MLS Cup Playoffs]], [[U.S. Open Cup]], [[MLS is Back Tournament]], [[CONCACAF Champions League]], [[FIFA Club World Cup]], and other competitive continental matches.</small>

=== International competitions ===
{| class="wikitable collapsible sortable" style="text-align:center;"
! Competition
! Season
! Round
! Opposition
! Home
! Away
! Agg{{shy}}regate 
|-
| rowspan="8"|[[CONCACAF Champions Cup]]
| rowspan="3"| [[2021 CONCACAF Champions League|2021]]
| Round of 16
| style="text-align:left;"|{{nowrap|{{fbaicon|CRC}} [[Deportivo Saprissa]]}}
| style="text-align:center; background:#dfd;"| 4–0
| style="text-align:center; background:#dfd;"| 1–0
| style="text-align:center; background:#dfd;"| '''5–0'''
|-
| Quarterfinals
| style="text-align:left;"|{{nowrap|{{fbaicon|USA}} [[Atlanta United FC]]}}
| style="text-align:center; background:#ffd;"| 1–1
| style="text-align:center; background:#dfd;"| 3–0
| style="text-align:center; background:#dfd;"| '''4–1'''
|-
| Semifinals
| style="text-align:left;"|{{nowrap|{{fbaicon|MEX}} [[Club América]]}}
| style="text-align:center; background:#fdd;"| 0–2
| style="text-align:center; background:#fdd;"| 0–2
| style="text-align:center; background:#fdd;"| '''0–4'''
|-
| rowspan="3"| [[2023 CONCACAF Champions League|2023]]
| Round of 16
| style="text-align:left;"|{{nowrap|{{fbaicon|SLV}} [[Alianza F.C. (El Salvador)|Alianza]]}}
| style="text-align:center; background:#dfd;"| 4–0
| style="text-align:center; background:#ffd;"| 0–0
| style="text-align:center; background:#dfd;"|'''4–0'''
|-
|-
| Quarterfinals
| style="text-align:left;"|{{nowrap|{{fbaicon|MEX}} [[Atlas F.C.|Atlas]]}}
| style="text-align:center; background:#dfd;"| 1–0
| style="text-align:center; background:#ffd;"| 2–2
| style="text-align:center; background:#dfd;"| '''3–2'''
|-
| Semifinals
| style="text-align:left;"|{{nowrap|{{fbaicon|USA}} [[Los Angeles FC|LAFC]]}}
| style="text-align:center; background:#ffd;"| 1–1
| style="text-align:center; background:#fdd;"| 0–3
| style="text-align:center; background:#fdd;"| '''1–4'''
|-
|-
| rowspan="2"| [[2024 CONCACAF Champions League|2024]]
| Round One
| style="text-align:left;"|{{nowrap|{{fbaicon|CRC}} [[Deportivo Saprissa]]}}
| style="text-align:center; background:#ffd;"| 3–3
| style="text-align:center; background:#dfd;"| 3–2
| style="text-align:center; background:#dfd;"| '''6–5'''
|-
|-
| Round of 16
| style="text-align:left;"|{{nowrap|{{fbaicon|MEX}} [[C.F. Pachuca]]}}
| style="text-align:center; background:#ffd;"| 0–0
| style="text-align:center; background:#fdd;"| 0–6
| style="text-align:center; background:#fdd;"|'''0–6'''
|}

==Player records==

===Most goals===
<!-- This is a list of all time goal scorers that is not shown above -->
{{Updated|February 22, 2025 (all competitive matches)|<ref>{{cite web |title=Philadelphia Union Top Scorers |url=http://www.mlssoccer.com/stats/season?franchise=5513&year=2016&season_type=REG&group=goals&op=Search&form_build_id=form-5E1bnmCzvwvsbR258G25T6a4KhaJJi0hCz8pj9ONbpU&form_id=mp7_stats_hub_build_filter_form |access-date=October 2, 2016}}</ref>}}
{| class="wikitable" style="text-align: center;"
|-
! style="background:#071C2C; color:#FFF; border:2px solid #BEA367;" scope="col"|Rank 
! style="background:#071C2C; color:#FFF; border:2px solid #BEA367;" scope="col"|Name
! style="background:#071C2C; color:#FFF; border:2px solid #BEA367;" scope="col"|Years
! style="background:#071C2C; color:#FFF; border:2px solid #BEA367;" scope="col"|Goals<ref>Includes [[Major League Soccer]], [[MLS Cup Playoffs]], [[MLS is Back Tournament]], [[U.S. Open Cup]], [[CONCACAF Champions League]] and [[Leagues Cup]] matches</ref>
|-
|1 ||style="text-align:left;"|{{flagicon|HUN}} [[Dániel Gazdag]] || 2021–2025 || 71
|-
|2 || style="text-align:left;" |{{flagicon|FRA}} [[Sébastien Le Toux]] || {{nowrap|2010–2011}}<br />2013–2016 || 56
|- 
|3 ||style="text-align:left;"|{{flagicon|ARG}} [[Julián Carranza]] || 2022–2024  || 43
|-
|4 ||style="text-align:left;" |{{flagicon|POL}} [[Kacper Przybyłko]]|| 2018–2021 || 40
|-
|rowspan="2"|5 ||style="text-align:left;"|{{flagicon|USA}} [[C. J. Sapong|C.J. Sapong]] || 2015–2019 || 38
|-
|style="text-align:left;" |{{flagicon|DEN}} '''[[Mikael Uhre]]''' || 2022– || 38
|-
|7  ||style="text-align:left;" |{{flagicon|JAM}} [[Cory Burke]] || 2018–2022 || 30
|-
|8 ||style="text-align:left;" |{{flagicon|USA}} '''[[Alejandro Bedoya]]''' || 2016– || 29
|-
|9 ||style="text-align:left;"|{{flagicon|USA}} [[Jack McInerney]] || 2010–2014 || 28
|-
|rowspan="4"|10 || style="text-align:left;" |{{flagicon|USA}} [[Conor Casey]]|| 2013–2015 || rowspan="4"|22
|-
| style="text-align:left;" |{{flagicon|BRA}} [[Ilsinho]]|| 2016–2021
|-
| style="text-align:left;" |{{flagicon|USA}} [[Fafa Picault]]|| 2017–2019
|-
|style="text-align:left;" |{{flagicon|BRA}} [[Sergio Santos (footballer, born 1994)|Sergio Santos]] || 2019–2022 
|-
|}
'''Bold''' signifies current Union player

=== Other player records ===

As of February 22, 2025 
''Stats only include MLS regular season matches. These do not include domestic cup, international, or playoff matches. ''

{{Col-begin}}
{{Col-break}}

'''Field players'''

* Games played: [[Alejandro Bedoya]] (245)
* Minutes played: [[Alejandro Bedoya]] (19,388)
* Goals: [[Dániel Gazdag]] (58)
* Assists: [[Kai Wagner]] (54)

{{Col-break}}

'''Goalkeepers'''

* Games played: [[Andre Blake]] (246)
* Minutes played: [[Andre Blake]] (21,984)
* Shutouts: [[Andre Blake]] (76)

{{col-end}}

== See also ==
{{Portal|Philadelphia}}

* [[All-time Philadelphia Union roster]]
* [[Sports in Philadelphia]]

== References ==
{{Reflist}}

== External links ==
{{Commons category|Philadelphia Union}}
* {{Official website}}

{{Philadelphia Union}}
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{{Portal bar|Association football|United States}}

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