Union Alumni Making Waves in Europe
The latest edition of the Philadelphians Abroad report, released in August 2026, shines a spotlight on a cohort of former Philadelphia Union players who have taken their talents overseas, charting both breakthroughs and lingering questions about their international futures.
Auston Trusty, the 27‑year‑old center‑back who wore the Union colors from 2016 to 2019, has cemented his place in Celtic’s defense, delivering commanding displays in the Scottish Premiership and contributing to the club’s recent League Cup run. His performances have even drawn a commendation from veteran manager Mauricio Pochettino, who praised the defender’s composure under pressure.
Meanwhile, Brenden Aaronson, the 25‑year‑old attacking midfielder from Medford, New Jersey, has used a four‑game preseason with Leeds United to announce his intent, notching two goals and two assists, highlighted by a striking contribution in a 4‑2 victory over Liverpool that underscored his adaptability in a high‑press system.
Homecoming Impact
Mark McKenzie’s journey has come full circle. After stints in France and Belgium, the 27‑year‑old defender was confirmed in January as a Designated Player returning to the Union, a move that adds depth to the back line and signals the club’s intent to blend homegrown experience with fresh talent.
Olwethu Makhanya, the 22‑year‑old center‑back who joined Rangers in July, has already featured in three full matches, earning a 7.2 rating on his debut and suggesting a smooth transition to the Scottish Premiership’s demanding schedule.
Julian Carranza, the 26‑year‑old striker who departed the Union in 2024, continues to be a goal‑scoring threat for Club Necaxa, although his market valuation exceeding $5 million makes a return to Philadelphia a financially complex proposition.
Samuel Adeniran, who briefly appeared for the Union in the latter half of 2024, has surged at LASK, scoring four goals in three league outings and posting per‑90 figures of 4.65 shots and 2.96 duels won, statistics that have revived discussions about his potential inclusion in the USMNT pool.
The convergence of these narratives reflects a broader strategy by the Union to re‑engage with alumni, even as contractual hurdles and player ambitions shape the landscape of possible USMNT call‑ups, with each club’s tactical environment offering distinct pathways for international recognition.