Curtin closed: Union fires two-time MLS coach of the year

The Philadelphia Union parted ways with two-time MLS Coach of the Year Jim Curtin on Thursday after 11 seasons.

Curtin, 45, led the team to its first MLS Cup final in 2022, but lost to Los Angeles FC on penalties.

The Union (9-15-10, 37 points) finished 12th in the 15-team Eastern Conference in 2024 and missed the playoffs.

“Jim was a remarkable leader during his tenure and an integral part of our team’s success,” said team owner Jay Sugarman. “I had the privilege of watching him develop into one of the league's top coaches, delivering strong results and unforgettable moments that will be etched in our club's history. This was a difficult decision, in part due to the immense gratitude and respect.” We have no doubt that he will have great success in his future coaching endeavors.

Curtin, a former MLS All-Star defender with the Chicago Fire (2001-08) and Chivas USA (2008-09), became the Union's head coach in 2014. He led Philadelphia to the Supporters' Shield in 2020 and three runner-ups to the US Open Cup (2014, 2015 and 2018) and was named MLS Coach of the Year in 2020 and 2022.

“We would like to extend our heartfelt thanks to Jim for his passion and commitment to this club over the last ten seasons. He has contributed significantly to the success the club has achieved in recent years and we are extremely grateful for that,” said sporting director Ernst Tanner. “We thank Jim for the significant impact he has made both on the field and in the community. After the 2024 season, we recognize the need for change. We will continue to evaluate our sporting strategy and make the necessary changes this offseason to best position the team for success.”

The club has begun the search for a head coach, according to Thursday's press release.

–Field level media