Philly Leader

After the Philadelphia Union announced its 2025 roster decisions, Sporting Director Ernst Tanner addressed the media about the club's plans for coaching and roster development. The offseason promises significant changes for the team.

Tanner emphasized a return to the club's traditional playing style. "We have to get back to where we have been which is an aggressive team together who are working hard on the field," Tanner stated. He added that they aim to sign players who fit well into the team's collective approach.

The search for a new head coach is ongoing, with Tanner actively involved in finding the fourth head coach in club history. "I want to go for the best man for the job, like always, and it doesn't matter if he is foreign or domestic," he said.

Negotiations with several key players are also underway. Captain Alejandro Bedoya and center back Jack Elliott are in talks with the club. Tanner expressed a desire to retain Bedoya due to his influence in the locker room but noted financial constraints in negotiations with Elliott.

Leon Flach will not return as he seeks opportunities closer to family in Germany. Despite efforts from Tanner to retain him, Flach opted to explore other options.

With 24 players under contract for 2025, Tanner plans additional signings across various positions except goalkeeping. Recent MLS roster rule changes provide increased flexibility, allowing teams more creative control over their rosters. Regarding these changes, Tanner mentioned a focus on midfield additions using U22 slots.

"It's pretty clear if we do another under 22 player, then it will very likely be in midfield," Tanner explained, highlighting Quinn Sullivan as an example of successful integration into this strategy.