The Philadelphia Union history tells the story of a determined Philadelphia Union soccer team competing in Philadelphia Union MLS since 2010. Based in Chester, Pennsylvania, the club has grown into one of MLS’s most competitive sides. Their consistent performances and loyal fan base have made them a respected force in American soccer.
Established
2008
City
Philadelphia
League History
2010 – Present / Major League Soccer
Team History
2010 – Present / Philadelphia Union
Nickname
Union – Philadelphia Union is one of the most beloved Major League Soccer teams in the United States. As a proud supporter of this team, you may wonder where their nickname originates and what it means.
Philadelphia Union Origin
The Philadelphia Union was founded in 2008 as part of an expansion into Major League Soccer, joining other professional soccer clubs like LA Galaxy and New York Red Bulls. The name "Union" was chosen to reflect Philadelphia's place as one of America's original 13 colonies – each colony united to form a single nation under God. This idea has been echoed throughout the club’s history, making it an appropriate representation of its city and country.
The logo for the team also reflects this union theme: featuring thirteen stars around a blue shield that forms two halves that come together at its center point, representing unity amongst all citizens regardless of race or creed within our great nation! It is also worth noting that these same colors are used by many other sports teams from Pennsylvania (such as Pittsburgh Steelers), which further solidifies their ties to Philly pride!
In addition to being symbolic of America’s independence movement, “Union” can also refer more broadly to any group that shares common goals or interests, which applies perfectly when describing passionate supporters such as yourself! From tailgating outside Talen Energy Stadium before kickoff until celebrating late into the night after victories, we are all united behind our shared love for Philadelphia Union soccer games - no matter how far away they may take us on any given weekend trip across MLS territory... Go U!!
Championship
MLS Cups 0
Stadium
2010 - Present / Subaru Park
2010 / Lincoln Financial Field
Owner
2008 - Present / Jay Sugarman (Keystone Sports & Entertainment, LLC)
- 2010
- 2011
- 2012
- 2019
- 2020
-
Union Team Formation
In 2007, the Sons of Ben supporter group formed to raise interest toward a Major League Soccer team in Philadelphia. They are credited with demonstrating to MLS an established fan base in the market. Major League Soccer added Philadelphia as its sixteenth team on February 28, 2008. The finalization of the club was the result of a $47 million package approved ... -
Philadelphia Union club qualified for the MLS Cup Playoffs for the first time
In 2011: The Philadelphia Union club qualified for the MLS Cup Playoffs for the first time, finishing third in the Eastern Conference. However, they lost to Houston Dynamo in the conference semifinals. -
Philadelphia club appointed John Hackworth as head coach
In 2012: The club parted ways with Nowak in June and appointed John Hackworth as the interim head coach. The club finished eighth in the Eastern Conference and missed the playoffs. -
Philadelphia Union win first MLS playoff match
In 2019: The Philadelphia Union club won its first playoff game, defeating New York Red Bulls 4–3 after extra time in the first round. However, they lost to Atlanta United FC 2–0 in the conference semifinals. -
Philadelphia Union win 2020 MLS Supporters’ Shield
In 2020: The club won its first trophy, securing the Supporters’ Shield with a league-best record of 14–4–5 (47 points) and a league-best goal difference of +24. The club also had four players named to the MLS Best XI: Andre Blake (goalkeeper), Mark McKenzie (defender), Brenden Aaronson (midfielder) and Kacper Przybylko (forward). However, they lost to New England Revolution 2–0 ...
To qualify as the greatest player for this team, the player must have played one season for this team. If not, we will remove the player.
* verifies that player has played for this team as an added player by a fan.
Philadelphia Union History
The Philadelphia Union is a professional soccer team based in Chester, Pennsylvania. Founded in 2008, the club officially joined Major League Soccer (MLS) in 2010, becoming one of the league’s exciting new franchises. Over the years, the Philadelphia Union soccer team has built a passionate fan base, known for their loyalty and electric atmosphere at Subaru Park.
The club’s first MLS season began with high hopes. While their debut campaign ended with a 6–15–9 record and no playoff berth, the Union showed flashes of potential, including a thrilling 3–2 victory over D.C. United in their first-ever win. The early years helped establish the Philadelphia Union MLS presence and laid the foundation for future success.
In 2011, under head coach Peter Nowak, the Philadelphia Union soccer team had one of their strongest early seasons, finishing third in the Eastern Conference with 12 victories. That year, they reached the playoffs for the first time, narrowly falling to the Houston Dynamo in a tense semifinal matchup. Their progress brought hope to fans that the club could soon rise among MLS elites.
Union Achievements
The Philadelphia Union history continued to grow steadily, with their biggest breakthrough coming in 2018 when they captured their first U.S. Open Cup title, defeating Seattle Sounders 2–1 after extra time. This historic win gave the Philadelphia Union its first major trophy, solidifying the team’s place among competitive MLS clubs. The triumph remains a proud milestone in Philadelphia Union history.
In recent seasons, the Philadelphia Union soccer team has continued to shine, reaching the MLS Cup Final in 2022 and earning multiple playoff appearances under head coach Jim Curtin. With standout players like Alejandro Bedoya and Kai Wagner leading the way, and rising young stars from their academy, the club’s future looks promising.
The Philadelphia Union MLS franchise now stands as one of the league’s most respected teams, combining tactical discipline, strong home support, and a deep commitment to developing local talent. As their journey continues, Philadelphia Union history keeps growing — built on passion, perseverance, and pride in representing the city of Philadelphia.
Sports Fan Products
Retired Number
*Blue is this team’s history