Philly Leader

A new chapter begins for Philadelphia Union II as they start their 2025 MLS NEXT Pro season against New England Revolution II on Sunday. The match will be available on MLS Season Pass via Apple TV.

Ryan Richter takes charge as head coach after three seasons as an assistant coach with the first team, where he contributed to a record of 43-29-30 in regular-season matches and a postseason record of 4-1-1. He also played a role in leading the team to its first-ever MLS Cup Final in 2022.

The defending Eastern Conference Champions' roster includes several players who have moved up to the first team due to last season's success. Frankie Westfield, Neil Pierre, Sal Olivas, and Eddy Davis III signed homegrown deals over the winter but are expected to continue playing significant minutes under Richter's guidance.

Richter expressed his excitement about player development: “What I'm most excited for is to see the growth in the players,” he said. “Our goal as a team is very simple. Every time you step on the field, you're trying to win the game.”

Union II has been training since January 13th with talent from the Union Academy. Midfielders Kellan LeBlanc and Willyam Ferreira secured their first professional contracts following these sessions. The team also added forward Stas Korzeniowski and midfielder Óscar Benítez.

Richter noted how quickly his team embraced their new philosophy: “From the Staff to the players, they all understand that they're trying to take the next step in their career,” he stated.

Revolution II ended their previous season with a record of 4-18-6 and have seen similar roster changes with graduations and new signings from their Academy. Notable additions include Jayden Da from Columbus Crew 2, Joe Buck from Georgetown University, Gabe Dahlin from Monmouth University, and Keegan Hughes who was previously on loan at Loudoun United FC.