Union part ways with head coach Jim Curtin

Jim Curtin has built the Philadelphia Union into one of the most competitive teams in MLS, but a disappointing 2024 has led to a major change in the front office.

The Union has parted ways with head coach Curtin, the club announced on Thursday. Curtin has been the club's head coach for the past ten seasons, leading the team to a Supporters' Shield, an Eastern Conference title and an appearance in the MLS Cup Final.

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

Curtin was named Union head coach in 2014 and became one of the longest-serving coaches in recent MLS history. In the record-breaking 2022 season, the club recorded the most wins (19), most goals scored (72), fewest goals conceded (26) and largest goal difference (+46).

Curtin became the youngest two-time recipient of the MLS Coach of the Year award (2020, 2022), becoming the fifth coach overall in league history to win the award multiple times.

He also coached many local players in the Union academy and first team, including current U.S. Men's National Team standouts Brenden Aaronson, Auston Trusty, Mark McKenzie and Paxten Aaronson.

“We would like to express our sincere appreciation 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 Ernst Tanner, Philadelphia Union sporting director. “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 prepare the team for success.”

In 2024, the Union took a step backwards and failed to reach the MLS Cup Playoffs. With 37 points in 34 games, they finished 12th in the Eastern Conference.