Football Season Guide

Philadelphia Union finally ended their wait for silverware on the fourth time asking as they wrapped up a historic campaign last season by lifting the Supporters' Shield though their biggest test will be whether they can come close to repeating the heroics in the upcoming campaign. Jim Curtin repaid the club's faith in him by leading them to the trophy last season but faces a big challenge after seeing three of their first choice players leave during the off-season. The biggest departure will be that of Brendan Aaronson, one of Philadelphia's best players last season but was sold to Red Bull Salzburg. Mark McKenzie has also left for Europe, signing up with Belgian side Genk, while Ray Gaddis announced his retirement at the end of last season, leaving Philadelphia short of much needed experience in the defense. Philadelphia have once again promoted a number of homegrown prospects though they have made two major acquisitions during the off-season, bolstering their defense with Scottish international Stuart Findlay while Leon Flach has been signed primarily as a central midfielder but can also play in the defense. Philadelphia expect Anthony Fontana to replace Aaronson in the lineup, ably supported by the midfield core of Alejandro Bedoya, Jose Martinez and Jamiro Monteiro. Not much is expected to change in terms of tactics for Philadelphia and, while silverware is likely to be a step too far this season, they should once again make it to the playoffs come the end of the regular season.