After a difficult start to the season, the Philadelphia Union are back in MLS action against New York Red Bulls, hoping that the World Cup break will act as a rest for their season, and that they can kickstart the second half of their campaign with a win over their biggest rival.
Harrison, New Jersey, USA; Philadelphia Union defender Kai Wagner (27) clears the ball away from New York Red Bulls forward Cory Burke (7) during the second half at Red Bull Arena. Mandatory Credit
Vincent Carchietta
Union return to play after a two-month break
This is a big moment for the Union. Not only is it the start of a lengthy homestand in a City jolted by World Cup fever, but a game where Ryan Richter will be in charge of the squad for the first time, having been named the replacement for Bradley Carnell.
A month of transition might have boded well for the PA native, who has been embedded in the team since 2018 as a youth coach, working up through the ranks. Before that, Richter was, of course, a player for the Union back in 2011, so he’s seen this team at their highest and their lowest. One would think that his many years of experience coaching the likes of the Sullivans and Aaronsons would mean he has a keen eye for young talent who will perhaps see an easier pathway to first team football under his guidance.
Speaking of the Sullivans, the Union will indeed be getting some much-needed reinforcements on Wednesday. Quinn Sullivan is set to make his return to the team after suffering an ACL injury last year.
Union II goalkeeper George Marks made big saves and scored the winning PK over Red Bulls II
Image Provided / Philadelphia Union II
The Union did make a surprising move in the Summer, bringing back Kai Wagner after his short spell at Birmingham City. Wagner, of course, played in 7 seasons for the Union before his jump to the English second division, and there’s nothing quite like a veteran presence to help right the ship.
All the dominoes do seem to be falling in the Union’s favor, but whether or not they can turn it into a big win is anyone’s guess. The Red Bulls come into this game sitting fifth in the Eastern Conference, while Philadelphia languishes at the bottom, winless since April. With only 7 points from 15 games, it’s imperative the squad finds its footing, especially with a difficult Leagues Cup campaign ahead.
If there’s ever a time for a ‘new manager bounce’, this is it. The Union has been too good for too long to look so far off the pace of the rest of their division. Richter has a long history with this team, help is on the way, and Subaru Park will be bouncing to welcome back the Boys in Blue. If they can make a statement against NYRB, who knows what the rest of the season has in store.