Questions Loom as Union Enter Offseason
The Philadelphia Union were handed a shocking loss in the first round of the MLS Cup Playoffs to the New England Revolution.
With the loss, the team now enters the offseason, where roster changes are going to be made, with players leaving and coming in.
What We Know
Photo: Wes Shepherd/Philadelphia Sports Nation
Midfielder Brenden Aaronson is already confirmed to be leaving the club for RB Salzburg. Defenders Mark McKenzie and Kai Wagner have both been rumored to be drawing heavy interest from European teams. While there is no confirmed move for either of the two, it is possible the Union’s defense could look a lot different next time we see them.
On the contractual side, Forward Cory Burke, Midfielders Anthony Fontana, Ilsinho, Warren Creavalle, Defenders Aurelien Colin, Olivier Mbaizo, Matt Real, and Goalkeeper Joe Bendik all have their contracts expire at the end of 2020.
While it is expected that the homegrowns Anthony Fontana and Matt Real will return, the club will need to make tough decisions with some of the older guys. Midfielder Ilsinho has become a legend at the club, however, he is 35 and was not as effective this year as years prior.
What the Club Needs
Anthony Fontana will be there to fill Brenden Aaronson’s spot. However, Fontana leaving the bench starts to create a depth issue in the midfield. It would help the team if they are able to bring in another attacking midfielder to help bolster the bench. Should the team lose either Mark McKenzie or Kai Wagner, or them both, they would need to fill those spots on the bench.
Defenders Jack Elliot and Jacob Glesnes are great defenders to fill Mark’s role, however, depth on the bench will need to be refilled. And for Kai Wagner, Matt Real or Olivier Mbaizo could be in line to take his place.
Who’s Next in Line
There are many players on the Union’s roster ready to make their mark. Homegrowns such as midfielders Jack De Vries and Cole Turner saw a few minutes this year, however, they could see a more defined role as players leave. Up top, homegrown forward Michee Ngalina could break into some minutes as he continues to develop. Another intriguing storyline to look out for is Union Signee Matej Orevac.
Many Union fans were excited for this signing of the 22-year-old midfielder, however, reports say he struggled in training and failed to make the 18 for the season. Lookout to see if he can improve and possibly backup Jose Martinez on the bench.
A Big Name in the Future?
The Union are used to having one of the lower payrolls in the league, however, that could change after the transfer of Brenden Aaronson and possible transfers of Mark Mckenzie and Kai Wagner.
With that added revenue the team could take the approach that many MLS teams have done and try to bring in a big-name European star. The move could also bring more exposure to the team which would bring in extra revenue itself.
Trust Ernst Tanner
No matter who comes and goes and what direction the team goes in, all Union fans can put their trust in Sporting Directer Ernst Tanner. Tanner has been able to find great talents at low prices, such as Sergio Santos who was signed from Chile.
He has built a team that won the Supporters Shield in just two years and we can all trust that the best is yet to come.
Featured Image: Wes Shepherd/Philadelphia Sports Nation
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