Philadelphia Union Squad 2025
The Philadelphia Union have established themselves as one of Major League Soccer’s most dynamic and forward-thinking franchises. Known for their emphasis on youth development, shrewd recruitment, and tactical innovation, the Union have built a squad capable of competing for domestic and continental honors. As the 2025 season approaches, the team boasts a blend of experienced veterans, emerging talents, and international stars. This post delves into the current roster, breaking it down by position and providing an in-depth look at each player’s background, achievements, and contributions to the team.
Goalkeepers
- Andre Blake
- Nationality: Jamaican
- Former Clubs: Harbour View FC, Connecticut Huskies (NCAA)
- Transfer Fee: N/A (Drafted 1st overall in the 2014 MLS SuperDraft)
Andre Blake remains the cornerstone of the Philadelphia Union’s defense. A three-time MLS Goalkeeper of the Year, Blake’s reflexes, command of the box, and leadership have made him one of the league’s most reliable shot-stoppers. His ability to make crucial saves in high-pressure situations has earned him the nickname “The Wall.” Blake’s international experience with Jamaica, including multiple CONCACAF Gold Cup appearances, further solidifies his reputation as a top-tier goalkeeper.
- Carlos Miguel
- Nationality: Brazilian
- Former Clubs: Corinthians, Atlético Mineiro (youth)
- Transfer Fee: $1.2 million (2024 transfer from Corinthians)
Carlos Miguel joined the Union in 2024 as a highly touted prospect from Brazil. Known for his excellent distribution and composure under pressure, Miguel has quickly become a reliable backup to Blake. His performances in the Copa Libertadores with Corinthians showcased his potential, and at just 24 years old, he is seen as the future of the Union’s goalkeeping department.
- Holden Trent
- Nationality: American
- Former Clubs: High Point University (NCAA)
- Transfer Fee: N/A (Homegrown signing in 2023)
A product of the Union’s academy, Holden Trent has steadily risen through the ranks to become the team’s third-choice goalkeeper. While he has yet to make his MLS debut, Trent’s performances for Union II in MLS Next Pro have been promising. His agility and shot-stopping ability make him a player to watch in the coming years.
Defenders
- Jakob Glesnes
- Nationality: Norwegian
- Former Clubs: FK Bodø/Glimt, Aalesund FK
- Transfer Fee: $2 million (2020 transfer from FK Bodø/Glimt)
Jakob Glesnes has been a rock at the heart of the Union’s defense since his arrival in 2020. Known for his aerial dominance, precise long-range passing, and ability to score spectacular goals, Glesnes has become a fan favorite. His partnership with Jack Elliott has been instrumental in the Union’s defensive solidity, and his leadership on the pitch is invaluable.
- Jack Elliott
- Nationality: English
- Former Clubs: West Virginia University (NCAA)
- Transfer Fee: N/A (Drafted in the 2017 MLS SuperDraft)
Jack Elliott’s consistency and intelligence make him one of the most underrated defenders in MLS. Standing at 6’5”, he is a formidable presence in both boxes. Elliott’s ability to read the game and make crucial interceptions has been key to the Union’s success. His partnership with Glesnes is one of the league’s most effective center-back duos.
- Kai Wagner
- Nationality: German
- Former Clubs: Schalke 04 (youth), Würzburger Kickers
- Transfer Fee: Free (2019 signing)
Kai Wagner has established himself as one of the best left-backs in MLS. His marauding runs down the flank, pinpoint crosses, and defensive tenacity have made him a vital part of the Union’s system. Wagner’s set-piece delivery and ability to contribute to both defense and attack have earned him multiple MLS Best XI selections.
- Nathan Harriel
- Nationality: American
- Former Clubs: University of South Florida (NCAA)
- Transfer Fee: N/A (Homegrown signing in 2020)
Nathan Harriel has emerged as a reliable option at right-back. His pace, defensive awareness, and ability to join the attack have made him a key player for the Union. Harriel’s development has been a testament to the club’s academy system, and he continues to grow into a well-rounded full-back.
- Damion Lowe
- Nationality: Jamaican
- Former Clubs: Al-Ittihad Kalba, Minnesota United, IK Start
- Transfer Fee: $500,000 (2023 trade from Inter Miami)
Damion Lowe brings experience and physicality to the Union’s backline. His ability to play both center-back and right-back provides valuable versatility. Lowe’s leadership and international experience with Jamaica add depth and stability to the defense.
- Brandan Craig
- Nationality: American
- Former Clubs: Philadelphia Union II
- Transfer Fee: N/A (Homegrown signing in 2021)
Brandan Craig is one of the Union’s most promising young defenders. A ball-playing center-back with excellent vision and passing range, Craig has drawn comparisons to some of the game’s best modern defenders. His performances for the U.S. youth national teams have further highlighted his potential.
Midfielders
- José Martínez
- Nationality: Venezuelan
- Former Clubs: Zulia FC, CD Lara
- Transfer Fee: $500,000 (2020 transfer from Zulia FC)
Known as “El Brujo,” José Martínez is the Union’s midfield enforcer. His tenacity, tackling, and ability to break up play have made him indispensable. Martínez’s passing range and ability to dictate the tempo of the game have also improved significantly, making him a complete midfielder.
- Daniel Gazdag
- Nationality: Hungarian
- Former Clubs: Budapest Honvéd, FC DAC 1904
- Transfer Fee: $1.8 million (2021 transfer from Budapest Honvéd)
Daniel Gazdag has been a revelation since joining the Union. An attacking midfielder with a keen eye for goal, Gazdag has consistently been among the team’s top scorers. His creativity, movement, and set-piece expertise make him a constant threat in the final third.
- Leon Flach
- Nationality: German-American
- Former Clubs: FC St. Pauli
- Transfer Fee: $500,000 (2021 transfer from FC St. Pauli)
Leon Flach’s work rate and versatility have made him a key player for the Union. Capable of playing as a defensive midfielder or on the wing, Flach’s energy and tactical intelligence provide balance to the team. His ability to cover ground and win duels is unmatched.
- Jack McGlynn
- Nationality: American
- Former Clubs: Philadelphia Union II
- Transfer Fee: N/A (Homegrown signing in 2020)
Jack McGlynn is one of the Union’s brightest young talents. A technically gifted midfielder with excellent passing and vision, McGlynn has drawn comparisons to some of the game’s best playmakers. His performances for the U.S. youth national teams have further cemented his status as a future star.
- Alejandro Bedoya
- Nationality: American
- Former Clubs: FC Nantes, Rangers, Helsingborgs IF
- Transfer Fee: $1 million (2016 transfer from FC Nantes)
Although in the twilight of his career, Alejandro Bedoya remains a vital presence in the Union’s midfield. His leadership, experience, and ability to control the tempo of the game are invaluable. Bedoya’s professionalism and dedication continue to inspire the team’s younger players.
- Quinn Sullivan
- Nationality: American
- Former Clubs: Philadelphia Union II
- Transfer Fee: N/A (Homegrown signing in 2020)
Quinn Sullivan is one of the most exciting prospects in American soccer. A versatile attacker capable of playing as a winger or central midfielder, Sullivan’s dribbling, creativity, and goal-scoring ability have made him a fan favorite. His potential is limitless.
Forwards
- Mikael Uhre
- Nationality: Danish
- Former Clubs: Brøndby IF
- Transfer Fee: $2.8 million (2022 transfer from Brøndby IF)
Mikael Uhre has been a consistent goal scorer for the Union since his arrival. His pace, movement, and finishing ability make him a constant threat in the box. Uhre’s partnership with Julián Carranza has been one of the most productive in MLS.
- Julián Carranza
- Nationality: Argentine
- Former Clubs: Inter Miami, Banfield
- Transfer Fee: $500,000 (2022 loan turned permanent transfer)
Julián Carranza has blossomed into one of the league’s most dangerous forwards. His work rate, hold-up play, and clinical finishing have made him a key player for the Union. Carranza’s ability to link up with his teammates and create chances is second to none.
- Chris Donovan
- Nationality: American
- Former Clubs: Drexel University (NCAA)
- Transfer Fee: N/A (Homegrown signing in 2022)
Chris Donovan has emerged as a reliable option off the bench. His physicality and ability to stretch defenses have made him a valuable asset. Donovan’s development is a testament to the Union’s commitment to nurturing young talent.
- Tai Baribo
- Nationality: Israeli
- Former Clubs: Wolfsberger AC, Maccabi Netanya
- Transfer Fee: $1.5 million (2023 transfer from Wolfsberger AC)
Tai Baribo joined the Union in 2023 and has quickly made an impact. A versatile forward capable of playing across the front line, Baribo’s technical ability and goal-scoring instincts have added a new dimension to the Union’s attack.
Conclusion
The Philadelphia Union’s 2025 squad is a testament to the club’s commitment to blending youth development with strategic recruitment. With a mix of experienced leaders, emerging talents, and international stars, the team is well-positioned to compete for trophies on multiple fronts. As the season unfolds, the Union’s depth, tactical flexibility, and collective spirit will be key to their success. Fans can look forward to an exciting campaign filled with memorable moments and continued growth.