The Philadelphia Union recently announced that they have signed Alejandro Bedoya, a veteran midfielder, to a new contract. The agreement also includes an expanded role for Bedoya within the organization as a player development and front office specialist. This news comes as a surprise considering reports last season suggested that the Union were not planning on offering him a new deal. However, sporting director Ernst Tanner explained that Bedoya’s leadership, work ethic, and passion are still crucial to the team’s success, making this decision a valuable one for the organization.
Bedoya has been a significant figure in Philadelphia, having spent his entire MLS career with the Union. During his time with the club, he has notched 22 goals and 33 assists in 214 MLS matches, showcasing his skills and dedication to the team. Last season, he achieved a career high in assists with seven, further solidifying his impact on the field. Additionally, Bedoya played a vital role in helping the Union reach the 2022 MLS Cup, where they unfortunately lost to LAFC on penalties. His continuous commitment to the organization and his ability to serve as a developmental mentor and front office specialist make him an asset to the team.
Bedoya’s Loyalty to Philadelphia
Expressing his loyalty and love for the club, Bedoya stated that Philadelphia is his home and the Union is his club. With great pride, he emphasized that the Union is the only Major League Soccer team he has ever played for and where he wants to continue his career. He highlighted the incredible growth and success of both the team and the organization since his arrival, underscoring his gratitude for being able to contribute on both the business and sports sides. Bedoya’s dedication and determination to give his all to the organization sets a solid foundation for a successful 2024 campaign.
Before joining the Union, Bedoya had the opportunity to play in France, Scotland, and Sweden. His international experience includes earning 66 caps with the U.S. men’s national team. Notably, he represented his country in the 2014 World Cup in Brazil and played an integral part in winning the Concacaf Gold Cup in 2013 and 2017. Bedoya’s diverse background and accomplishments bring a wealth of knowledge and expertise to the Philadelphia Union, further enhancing his value within the organization.
The Philadelphia Union’s decision to retain Alejandro Bedoya and expand his role within the organization signifies their recognition of his exceptional leadership, work ethic, and passion. Bedoya’s contributions on and off the field have been instrumental in the team’s success, making him a valuable asset to the Union. With his loyalty and commitment to Philadelphia, along with his international experience, Bedoya is well-positioned to play a vital role in the upcoming 2024 MLS season. The Union is fortunate to have Bedoya as part of their team, and his continued dedication will undoubtedly contribute to the organization’s long-term growth and success.