Philadelphia Union today sacked coach Jim Curtin after 10 years in charge.
Curtin led the Union to the MLS Cup final in 2022 after a record-breaking season that saw them set several club records, including most wins (19), most goals scored (72), fewest goals conceded (26), and greatest goal differential (+46).
However, results have tailed off since that point and the Union finished 12th in the 15-team MLS Eastern Conference standings in 2024.
The franchise’s principal owner Jay Sugarman said: “Jim has been a remarkable leader and an integral part of our team’s success during his tenure.
“I have had the privilege to watch him grow into one of the top coaches in the league and deliver strong results and memorable moments that will be ingrained in our club’s history. This has been a difficult decision due in part to the immense gratitude and respect we have for him. We have no doubt he’ll find great success in his future coaching endeavors.”
Statement from Philadelphia Unionhttps://t.co/AlkgXKt4U2 pic.twitter.com/m9j0jpgabE
— Philadelphia Union (@PhilaUnion) November 7, 2024
Tanner hails Curtin’s dedication
Sporting director Ernst Tanner added: “We want to extend our heartfelt appreciation to Jim for his passion and dedication to this club over the last ten seasons. He greatly contributed to the success the club has achieved in recent years and for that we are extremely grateful.
“We thank Jim for the significant impact he made both on the field and in the community. Following the 2024 season we recognize the need for change. We’ll continue to evaluate our sporting strategy and make necessary changes this offseason to best set the team up for success.”
Curtin leaves with an overall record of 174-93-138 after leading them to three US Open Cup finals and having twice been named MLS Coach of the Year.
The 45-year-old, who signed a three-year contract in 2023, has already been linked with the vacancies at Atlanta United and St Louis City.
