A season of transition for the Philadelphia Union
In short: After securing a prestigious continental berth, the Philadelphia Union entered their seventeenth Major League Soccer campaign facing unexpected leadership changes. From training camps in Spain to a mid-season managerial shift, the 2026 season became a test of stability for the club.
The 2026 campaign for the Philadelphia Union began with high expectations following a successful 2025. Having won the Supporters' Shield, the club earned a coveted spot in the 2026 CONCACAF Champions Cup. Their season officially kicked off on February 18, 2026, with a victory against Defence Force, and the club's schedule also included participation in the 2026 Leagues Cup. This period of competition was particularly significant as the club sought to leverage its status as the 2025 Supporters' Shield winners. Beyond the Champions Cup, the squad's schedule also featured appearances in the 2026 Leagues Cup tournament.
Preparation for the season involved an international preseason itinerary. The club's training schedule, released on January 16, 2026, included a stint in Marbella, Spain, which began on January 17. The squad also utilized a second training camp located in Clearwater, Florida, to prepare for the rigors of the top flight of American soccer. The preseason itinerary was officially announced to the public on January 16, 2026. This plan involved moving the squad from their initial Spanish training sessions to a subsequent camp in Clearwater, Florida.
However, the season was marked by a significant change in the dugout. Bradley Carnell, who was entering his second season at the helm, led the team until May 27, 2026. Following his departure, Ryan Richter stepped in to manage the club on an interim basis, navigating the mid-season transition during the club's seventeenth year in Major League Soccer. The club's management structure underwent this sudden shift during its seventeenth year in the top flight of American soccer. Ryan Richter took over the reins following the conclusion of Carnell's tenure in late May.
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- Summary by Intellect · source: 2026 Philadelphia Union season
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