Philly Leader

Philadelphia Union II has announced the appointment of Fred da Silva and Henry Apaloo as assistant coaches for the upcoming 2025 MLS NEXT Pro season. The new additions join head coach Ryan Richter, aiming to build on a successful 2024 season where Union II claimed the Eastern Conference Championship and reached the MLS NEXT Pro Cup for the first time.

Fred da Silva transitions from his role as head coach of Union 3, bringing with him a wealth of experience in youth development. His coaching career began in 2016 as U12 Union Academy Head Coach, followed by promotions to U14 Head Coach in 2017 and leading Union 3 in 2020. Before his coaching career, da Silva played professionally in Brazil, Australia, and Major League Soccer with D.C. United and Philadelphia Union.

Henry Apaloo joins from the Union Academy U15 squad, where he was head coach. His experience spans MLS, USL, and European football. He has worked with Aberdeen FC as a first-team assistant and analyst and held roles at Atlanta United FC at both MLS and USL levels. Apaloo's coaching credentials also include positions at the University of South Florida, Florida Gulf Coast University, and Barry University, focusing on player development, analysis, and scouting.

Union II will start their season on March 9 against New England Revolution II at Gillette Stadium.