Philly Leader

Bruno Damiani, a 22-year-old striker from Uruguay, has arrived in Philadelphia to join the Union for the upcoming 2025 season. In his first day with the club, Damiani shared his initial impressions and excitement about joining the team.

When asked about his first impression of the club, Damiani noted, "The only thing I've seen is the stadium, and that is very good. It's bigger than I imagined, and now I can't wait to go to the facilities and to meet all my teammates."

Damiani explained how he became aware of Philadelphia Union's interest in him: "I knew since last Wednesday, then last week on Friday I said I want to come. This week, everything happened. I'm very, very proud. I'm very thankful for the team, the club, and all the people who brought me here. I'm very, very excited."

He described why he felt this move was right for him: "It was a very good deal because it's a very good city, a very beautiful city. It's a league growing up, taking in so many young people, and it was, I think, the moment to leave Nacional."

Damiani revealed that his biggest inspiration is Alvaro Recoba: "My idol from when I was a kid was Alvara Recoba -- when I was a kid, he used the number 20 at Nacional and I finished being coached by him and being friend of his child. When I got here, I learned the number 20 was available and not the number nine, and they are my two favorite numbers. So I'll wear the number 20."

On pregame rituals and routines he said: "I change them based on results. A lot of times, the socks, the shin guards -- I always change them. If they give me luck, I keep them; if they give me bad luck I change them."

For unwinding off-field activities Damiani simply stated: "Sleep."

Describing himself as a player and off-field personality respectively as "Fuerte/Strong" and "Tranquilo/calm," Damiani shared insights into his character.

Regarding goal celebrations he mentioned: "None in particular; I just like celebrating with fans."

His most memorable career moment so far? "Probably my first game in Uruguayan Primera Division which was in Libertadores -- that was very important."

Looking ahead as part of Union’s squad goals include making playoffs again after past successes like reaching finals or winning Supporter’s Shield: “I would like achieving club’s goals...hope repeating those results.”

Lastly addressing fans directly expressed eagerness towards upcoming matches particularly against Cincinnati saying “Well I'm first person wanting getting there playing game...hope see you on that day.”