Alejandro Bedoya coming back for a 10th season with the Union
Bedoya's leadership was a big reason the team wanted him back, sporting director Ernst Tanner said in a statement.
The Union re-signed veteran midfielder Alejandro Bedoya to a contract for the 2025 MLS season, the club announced Monday.
Bedoya, 37, has 24 goals and 37 assists for the Union in 244 regular-season appearances since his start with the club in 2016. The outspoken New Jersey native is deeply rooted in Philadelphia, and expressed his desire to return to the Union after his contract expired at season’s end.
“Alejandro’s contributions as a player, leader, and front office specialist proved invaluable last season,” sporting director Ernst Tanner said in a statement. “While he is still an important player on the field, his leadership and insights in his player development role are especially beneficial. His experience, combined with his passion and dedication to the Union, makes him an important mentor for our young players, while his business acumen is beneficial to the entire organization.”
» READ MORE: Union trade away three years of future draft picks, showing again they value academy prospects more
Contract negotiations were ongoing between the Union and their longtime captain when the club made its end-of-season roster moves on Nov. 26. Bedoya’s future with the club became uncertain when the Union fired manager Jim Curtin after they missed the MLS postseason for the first time since 2017. Curtin was at the helm when the Union acquired Bedoya from French side Nantes for a $1 million transfer fee in August 2016.
“I hope it’s not [the end], but of course, that thought lingers, and it’s tough,” Bedoya said after the Union’s season-ending 2-1 loss to FC Cincinnati on Oct. 19. “Because I love this club, I love the city, and it’s not the way I’d like to go out.”
» READ MORE: Manchester City, Real Madrid, Chelsea, Juventus coming to Philly for 2025 Club World Cup
Bedoya will continue in his role as a player development and front office specialist for the Union. His 244 regular-season appearances are one behind his teammate, goalkeeper Andre Blake, for the most in club history. Bedoya’s 37 assists rank third in franchise history.