Since its inception in 2010, the Philadelphia Union has been a force to be reckoned with in Major League Soccer (MLS).
Over the years, the team has seen remarkable talents grace its roster, leaving a solid footprint in the club and league’s history. From stalwart defenders to prolific goal scorers, the Philadelphia Union has produced some of the most memorable players in MLS.
Here, we look at the 10 best Philadelphia Union players in MLS history.
Brief History Of the Philadelphia Union
The Philadelphia Union, founded on February 28, 2008, is an American professional soccer club competing in Major League Soccer (MLS) as a member of the Eastern Conference.
Established as an expansion team, the Union began playing in 2010.
Their home stadium, Subaru Park, is located in Chester, Pennsylvania, along the banks of the Delaware River.
Owned by Keystone Sports & Entertainment, Jay Sugarman is the majority owner and chairman, with professional basketball player Kevin Durant holding a minority ownership stake.
Jim Curtin has been the head coach since 2014.
Despite finishing as runners-up in several tournaments, including the U.S. Open Cup and MLS Cup final, the Union secured their first major title, the Supporters’ Shield, in 2020, marking a significant milestone in the club’s history.
1. Andre Blake
- Position: Goalkeeper
Regarded as one of the finest goalkeepers in MLS history, his impact on the Philadelphia Union has been immense.
Joining the team in 2014, Blake quickly established himself as a commanding presence between the posts.
His lightning-fast reflexes, superb shot-stopping abilities, and commanding presence have earned him numerous accolades, including the MLS Goalkeeper of the Year award in 2016.
Blake’s heroics in goal have often been the difference-maker for the Union, making him a fan favorite and a cornerstone of the team’s success.
2. Sébastien Le Toux
- Position: Forward, winger
No list of the Philadelphia Union’s greatest players would be complete without Sébastien Le Toux.
A fan favorite and club legend, Le Toux played a pivotal role in the Union’s early years, becoming the team’s first-ever signing in 2009.
Known for his versatility, work rate, and knack for scoring crucial goals, Le Toux remains the Union’s all-time leading scorer.
His memorable performances, including a hat-trick in the Union’s inaugural home game, cemented his status as an icon in Philadelphia soccer history.
3. Carlos Valdes
- Position: Defender
A towering presence in the heart of the Union’s defense, Carlos Valdes established himself as one of the league’s premier center-backs during his time with the club.
Valdes’ leadership qualities, aerial prowess, and ability to read the game made him a formidable opponent for strikers across MLS.
The Colombian international played a crucial role in the Union’s defensive solidity and provided a steady presence at the back during his tenure with the team.
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4. Alejandro Bedoya
- Position: Midfielder
As a midfielder, Alejandro Bedoya brought a wealth of experience and skill to the Philadelphia Union when he joined the club in 2016.
Known for his tireless work ethic, vision, and passing ability, Bedoya quickly became a key figure in the Union’s midfield.
Beyond his on-field contributions, Bedoya’s leadership qualities and vocal presence have guided the team through challenging moments.
His versatility and commitment to excellence endeared him to fans and teammates.
5. Brian Carroll
- Position: Midfielder
A mainstay in the Philadelphia Union’s midfield for six seasons, he epitomized reliability throughout his MLS career.
A model of consistency and reliability, he provided a steady presence in midfield for the Philadelphia Union throughout his tenure with the club.
Renowned for his work ethic, tactical awareness, and ability to break up opposition attacks, Carroll was a linchpin in the Union’s midfield, often doing the dirty work that went unnoticed but was crucial to the team’s success.
With his leadership on and off the field, Carroll became a respected figure within the organization and among fans.
6. Ilsinho
- Position: Right midfielder
Known for his flair, creativity, and dazzling skill on the ball, Ilsinho became a fan favorite for the Philadelphia Union with his electrifying performances on the wing.
Blessed with exceptional dribbling ability and a penchant for scoring spectacular goals, Ilsinho brought excitement and unpredictability to the team’s attacking play.
Whether cutting inside to unleash a fierce shot or providing inch-perfect assists for his teammates, Ilsinho left a lasting impression with his artistry and flair, etching his name into Union folklore.
7. Jack McInerney
- Position: Forward
During his time with the Philadelphia Union, Jack McInerney emerged as one of the most promising young strikers in the MLS.
Bursting onto the scene as a teenager, McInerney showcased his predatory instincts in front of goal, often finding the back of the net with poise and precision.
His natural goal-scoring ability and sharp movement made him a constant threat to opposing defenses. McInerney’s contributions to the Union’s attack earned him widespread acclaim and solidified his place in the club’s history.
8. Danny Califf
- Position: Defender
A rugged and tenacious defender, Danny Califf epitomized the Philadelphia Union’s blue-collar ethos during the club’s early years.
With his no-nonsense approach, aerial dominance, and uncompromising style of play, Califf became a fan favorite and a vocal leader on the field.
As the team’s first-ever captain, Califf played a pivotal role in shaping the Union’s identity and instilling a winning mentality within the squad, leaving an enduring legacy of toughness and resilience.
9. Tranquillo Barnetta
- Position: Midfielder
Barnetta brought a touch of class and creativity to the Philadelphia Union midfield during his time with the club.
Signed as a Designated Player in 2015, Barnetta’s vision, technical ability, and set-piece prowess added a new dimension to the team’s attacking play.
Whether orchestrating the build-up or delivering inch-perfect crosses, Barnetta left a lasting impression with his artistry on the ball and his ability to unlock defenses, earning admiration from teammates and supporters alike.
10. Keegan Rosenberry
- Position: Right-back
He emerged as one of the brightest young talents in MLS during his breakout season with the Philadelphia Union in 2016.
As a dynamic and attack-minded fullback, Rosenberry showcased his defensive prowess as well as his ability to join the attack and deliver dangerous crosses from wide positions.
His standout performances earned him recognition as a finalist for MLS Rookie of the Year and a spot in the MLS All-Star Game, solidifying his status as one of the league’s top young defenders.
Other Philadephia Union Best Players In History
- Freddy Adu
- Zac MacMath
- Carlos Ruiz
- Haris Medunjanin
- Kacper Przybyłko
- Sheanon Williams
- Fafà Picault
- Maurice Edu
- Chris Pontius
- Marco Fabián
