TRANSFER TRACKER STATUS: Retirement
Philadelphia Union midfielder Alejandro Bedoya has announced his retirement from professional soccer after the 2026 MLS season, ending a career in which he captained the club for nine seasons.
The 39-year-old joined the Union as a Designated Player from France's FC Nantes in August 2016. He led the team to two Supporters’ Shield titles (2020, '25) and helped them reach MLS Cup presented by Audi in 2022.
Bedoya is the Union’s second player to reach 300 appearances across all competitions and one of only three players in the club’s history to score at least 25 goals and provide at least 25 assists.
“When I look back on my time in Philadelphia, so many moments come to mind, from the big wins and incredible matches to the challenges we faced along the way,” said Bedoya.
“However, what stands out most is everything beyond the game. I came here because I believed in what the club was building and wanted to be part of that vision. Over time, Philadelphia became so much more than the place I came to play soccer. It's where my family put down roots and where we built a life together.”
Bedoya was named the 2022 MLS WORKS Humanitarian of the Year and also received the 2023 Audi Goals Drive Progress Impact Award.
In 2024, Bedoya began serving as a Player Development and Front Office Specialist with the Union while continuing his playing career.
Internationally, Bedoya earned 66 caps with the US men’s national team. He won two Concacaf Gold Cup titles and played at the 2014 FIFA World Cup.
"Alejandro's impact on the Philadelphia Union extends far beyond what he accomplished on the field,” said Union principal owner Jay Sugarman. "For more than a decade, he has been an integral part of this club's growth and evolution, helping establish the standard for what the Philadelphia Union represents today.
"As a captain, leader, and competitor, he set an example for those around him and played an important role in shaping our identity. Alejandro has left an indelible mark on this organization and on soccer in Philadelphia. We are incredibly grateful for his commitment to this club and everything he has contributed over the last 10 years, and we congratulate him on an outstanding career."
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