The Free Kick

Philadelphia Union picked up their biggest thrashing under interim head coach Ryan Richter, as they defeated FC Cincinnati by a score of 5-0 with Bruno Damaini scoring his first career trick, and Quinn Sullivan and Milan Iloski scoring from the penalty spot. Todd and José discuss their thoughts on the game including: Bruno Damiani's performance, Ryan Richter's sub choices after being up 4-0, and the Sullivan takeover in Philadelphia. Philadelphia Union v FC Cincinnati: Overall thoughts on red card, strong defensive effort, and Union one point off 6th place: [9:54] Bruno Damiani's performance: [23:06] Ryan Richter's sub choices after being up 4-0: [43:25] The Sullivan takeover in Philadelphia: [50:05] Social Media: Twitter: @FreeKickPod Instagram: @FreeKickPod Facebook: @FreeKickPod YouTube: The Free Kick https://thefreekick.substack.com/ Jose's Social Media: Twitter: @JoserNunez91 https://nunezj.substack.com/

Philadelphia Union found a way to grind out a win over CF Montréal as Danley Jean Jacques and Cavan Sullivan scored in the 2-0 victory. Todd and José discuss the latest MLS news which includes: Markus Anderson loaned to Lyngby, Jack McGlynn sold to Stoke City and Union acquire GAM from LAFC and Real Salt Lake. They also discuss their thoughts from the game against Montréal with topics including: Union find a way to grind out a win, Cavan Sullivan's historic season, and Ryan Richter's faith in Bruno Damiani. News: Markus Anderson loaned to Lyngby: [10:28] Jack McGlynn sold to Stoke City: [16:13] Union acquire GAM from LAFC and RSL: [24:30] Philadelphia Union v CF Montréal: Why sports matter: [25:35] Union grind out a win: [32:08] Cavan Sullivan's historic season: [48:46] Mauricio Pochettino on Union players: [53:22] Ryan Richter's faith in Bruno Damiani: [1:08:55] Blunder of The Week: Prince Owusu failed panenka: [1:13:44] Photo Credit: Don Robson Social Media: Twitter: @FreeKickPod Instagram: @FreeKickPod Facebook: @FreeKickPod YouTube: The Free Kick https://thefreekick.substack.com/ Jose's Social Media: Twitter: @JoserNunez91 https://nunezj.substack.com/ Mauricio Pochettino praises the Union's young stars, and opens the door to USMNT call-ups

The Philadelphia Union play host to CF Montréal on Saturday, as the Union look to extend their unbeaten streak to eight games since the World Cup break. Todd and José are joined by MLS Spanish commentator Moisés Linares to preview the game. The Spanish side of things for Apple TV / MLS: Calling games solo: [3:11] Incorporating English / Spanish style of commentary into your own: [9:20] Philadelphia Union v CF Montréal: How surprising is it that the Union are one point of a playoff spot: [15:50] How big of a factor is Montréal's brutal travel scheduling going to play an affect: [22:43] How big of a signing will Alexis Sánchez turn out to be: [26:50] What will be key for a Union victory: [29:25] Nathan Harriel reaches over 10000 minutes in MLS for Union: [36:38] Social Media: Twitter: @FreeKickPod Instagram: @FreeKickPod Facebook: @FreeKickPod YouTube: The Free Kick https://thefreekick.substack.com/ Jose's Social Media: Twitter: @JoserNunez91 https://nunezj.substack.com/ Moisés Social Media: Twitter: @ MlinaresDC Instagram: @ mlinaresdc

The Philadelphia Union continued their flying start under interim head coach Ryan Richter, defeating Red Bull New York 3-1 behind goals from Milan Iloski, Cavan Sullivan, and Neil Pierre. The victory moved the Union to within one point of a playoff spot. Todd and José discuss the latest news from around MLS, including Stas Korzeniowski's loan move to Rhode Island FC and Dániel Gazdag's transfer to the New England Revolution. They then break down the Union's victory on Saturday night, with topics including Cavan Sullivan's case for a USMNT call-up and have the Union emerged as a legitimate playoff threat? Finally, they wrap up with Blunder of the Week, an honor that goes to José's beloved Manchester City. News: Stas Korzeniowski loaned to Rhode Island in USL Championship: [9:40] Dániel Gazdag to New England Revolution: [15:27] Red Bull New York v Philadelphia Union: Danley Jean Jacques continues to impress / Andre Blake with a stellar performance: [24:57] Cavan Sullivan continues to make case for USMNT call-up in September: [39:10] Have the Union emerged as a legitimate playoff threat: [52:15] Blunder of The Week: Manchester City use AI for their third kit: [1:14:55] Social Media: Twitter: @FreeKickPod Instagram: @FreeKickPod Facebook: @FreeKickPod YouTube: The Free Kick https://thefreekick.substack.com/ Jose's Social Media: Twitter: @JoserNunez91 https://nunezj.substack.com/

The Philadelphia Union return to action on Saturday night as they face off against Red Bull New York, looking to keep their six-game unbeaten run intact. Todd and José are joined by MLS and CBS Sports commentator Chris Wittyngham to preview the match. They discuss topics such as the current homegrown wave in MLS, the differences in preparation for Bradley Carnell and Ryan Richter, the impact of Kai Wagner since his return, whether Cavan Sullivan should be called up during the next USMNT window, and Red Bull New York's current form. Todd and José wrap up the show with their thoughts on MLS' exit from the Leagues Cup and how close Agustín Anello is to earning more minutes. Red Bull New York v Philadelphia Union: MLS Homegrown wave: [4:45] Difference in preparation between Bradley Carnell and Ryan Richter: [11:08] Impact of Kai Wagner since his return: [15:23] Is Cavan Sullivan playing with a chip on his shoulders: [20:00] Should Cavan Sullivan be called up in the next USMNT window: [24:10] Red Bull New York's current form: [27:26] Agustín Anello pushing for more minutes: [40:10] Leagues Cup: MLS teams' eliminated from Leagues Cup: [34:54] Social Media: Twitter: @FreeKickPod Instagram: @FreeKickPod Facebook: @FreeKickPod YouTube: The Free Kick https://thefreekick.substack.com/ Jose's Social Media: Twitter: @JoserNunez91 https://nunezj.substack.com/ Chris' Social Media: Twitter: @ ChrisWittyngham Instagram: @ chriswittyngham

The Philadelphia Union remain unbeaten through interim head coach Ryan Richter's first six MLS games, as the Union and Austin played to a 1-1 draw at Q2 Stadium. Todd is joined by Evan Konigsberg to discuss the game and topics such as Neil Pierre's strong defensive performance, Ryan Richter's first six games in MLS, and Richter using the same starting XI against Austin that faced Inter Miami three days ago. Finally, Todd talks about the Blunder of the Week, which involves Crew Alexandra and Northampton Town. News: The Seattle Sounders have agreed to a deal to acquire star forward Dejan Joveljic from Sporting KC for $6M: [3:35] Sporting KC offered $25M for Nico Fernandez Mercau: [6:29] The San Jose Earthquakes agreed to a deal to acquire midfielder Eduard Löwen from St. Louis City: [13:00] Austin FC v Philadelphia Union: Cavan Sullivan's second goal / Andre Blake saves: [18:01] Ryan Richter goes with same XI as he did against Miami: [28:38] Bench options: [36:26] Ryan Richter through six MLS games: [44:35] Neil Pierre's strong performance: [53:07] Blunder of The Week: Crewe Alexandra's Josh March steals the ball coming from behind the Northampton goalkeeper to score the winner: [59:47] Social Media: Twitter: @FreeKickPod Instagram: @FreeKickPod Facebook: @FreeKickPod YouTube: The Free Kick https://thefreekick.substack.com/ Jose's Social Media: Twitter: @JoserNunez91 https://nunezj.substack.com/ Evan's Social Media: Twitter: @ evanknowsball https://philadelphiasoccernow.com/

Philadelphia Union and Inter Miami played to a 2-2 draw on Wednesday night, in a match where the Philadelphia Union looked the better side. In a game that should've been about the Union's strong performance, unfortunately got overshadowed by Inter Miami's antics throughout the game. Todd is joined by Evan Konigsberg to discuss the match, with topics including: Inter Miami's antics throughout the match + red cards to Yannick Bright and Cavan Sullivan, assessing Ryan Richter's first five MLS games, and missed opportunities for three points. News: Neil Pierre named to MLS Team of The Matchday 21: [4:14] Mark McKenzie re-joining Philadelphia Union in 2027 of January: [8:11] Philadelphia Union v Inter Miami: Overall atmosphere: [17:50] Big moments in the game / Indiana Vassilev / Nathan Harriel / Neil Pierre: [27:18] Miami antics over the years: [48:19] Ryan Richter deserves credit from national media: [52:00] Missed opportunities: [58:29] Miami antics / Cavan Sullivan and Yannick Bright situation: [ 1:09:30] **Photo Credit: Carl Gulbish** Social Media: Twitter: @FreeKickPod Instagram: @FreeKickPod Facebook: @FreeKickPod YouTube: The Free Kick https://thefreekick.substack.com/ Jose's Social Media: Twitter: @JoserNunez91 https://nunezj.substack.com/ Evan's Social Media: Twitter: @ evanknowsball https://philadelphiasoccernow.com/

The Philadelphia Union have made it back-back MLS games that they have comeback from 2-0 deficits in MLS, as they scored three goals in the second half with Danley Jean Jacques and Bruno Damiani to complete a 3-2 win over NYCFC. Todd and José give their thoughts on the win and discuss topics such as: Bruno Damiani's much needed performance, Sullivan brothers both shine, should Ryan Richter be given the first team job permanently because of his relationship with the Sullivan brothers, and Richter's second half changes prove key. Todd also gives his Blunder of the Week that involves high school soccer. NYCFC v Philadelphia Union: Danley's performances under Richter and the cost of midfielders World Wide: [6:10] Controversial penalties given up: [18:06] Bruno Damiani's first MLS brace: [25:09] Sullivan brothers shine: [36:12] Should Ryan Richter be given the Union job permanently for his relationship with Sullivan brothers / Ryan Richter's second half changes: [58:53] Blunder of The Week: Punches thrown in a High School soccer game in South Dakota between Rapid City Central vs. Brookings: [1:09:07] Social Media: Twitter: @FreeKickPod Instagram: @FreeKickPod Facebook: @FreeKickPod YouTube: The Free Kick https://thefreekick.substack.com/ Jose's Social Media: Twitter: @JoserNunez91 https://nunezj.substack.com/

The Philadelphia Union picked up a 3-1 win over Necaxa on Sunday night for their first win of Leagues Cup, ruining Julián Carranza's return to Subaru Park for the first time since June of 2024. Todd and Evan Konigsberg give their thoughts on the game with topics including: Julián Carranza's homecoming, are Philadelphia Union that bad, or is Necaxa that bad, and what does the future hold next for Cavan Sullivan? Plus, Todd talks about this weeks Blunder of The Week which includes a U20 game between USA and Mexico. Philadelphia Union v Necaxa: Players progressing under Ryan Richter / Leagues Cup overall as a tournament: [11:50] Julian Carranza's homecoming: [30:13] Were the Union really good, or Necaxa that bad: [40:34] What's Next For Cavan Sullivan: [54:55] Blunder of The Week: Chris Applewhite red card against Mexico U20: [1:10:03] **Photo Credit: Don Robson** Social Media: Twitter: @FreeKickPod Instagram: @FreeKickPod Facebook: @FreeKickPod YouTube: The Free Kick https://thefreekick.substack.com/ Jose's Social Media: Twitter: @JoserNunez91 https://nunezj.substack.com/ Evan's Social Media: Twitter: @ evanknowsball https://philadelphiasoccernow.com/

The Philadelphia Union fell 1-0 to Cruz Azul in a match filled with controversy, as no penalty was awarded for what appeared to be a clear handball, and Cavan Sullivan seemed to be fouled late in the game. Todd and José share their thoughts on the match, including the non-penalty call, the Union's dominant second-half performance, and how the club should approach the remainder of the Leagues Cup after opening the tournament with a loss. Cruz Azul v Philadelphia Union: Overall thoughts + Ezekiel Alladoh's lackluster performance: [5:48] How do Union approach rest of Leagues Cup with a loss: [17:45] Union dominated second half: [30:17] No penalty given in 89th minute for what looked to be a clear handball: [39:57] Social Media: Twitter: @FreeKickPod Instagram: @FreeKickPod Facebook: @FreeKickPod YouTube: The Free Kick https://thefreekick.substack.com/ Jose's Social Media: Twitter: @JoserNunez91 https://nunezj.substack.com/ Icarus Football x Forbidden Closet x Olivia Smith Looking for your newest soccer jersey? Our friends over at Forbidden Closet have partnered with Icarus Football and Local Philadelphia designer Olivia Smith to design "Philadelphia Football" jerseys, inspired by Brazil's 1992 kit and France's 1982 kit. Preorder your jersey through August 9th .

In what will surely go down as one of the greatest games in Philadelphia Union history as they came from behind and defeated Atlanta United by a score of 3-2 with goals from Milan Iloski, Neil Pierre and Ezekiel Alladoh. Todd and José discuss their thoughts from the game including: Kai Wagner's Man of The Match performance, the difficulties of breaking down a low block, Ezekiel Alladoh's first career MLS goal, and Ryan Richter's substitutions. Finally, they discuss Blunder of The Week which includes a delusional soccer fan Todd ran into. Philadelphia Union v Atlanta United: Overall thoughts: [7:10] Kai Wagner's Man of the Match performance: [29:39] Ryan Richter's substitutions: [35:23] Difficulties of breaking down a low block: [47:07] Ezekiel Alladoh scores first career MLS goal: [53:34] Blunder of The Week: Soccer "fan" admits he's a fan of Barcelona and Real Madrid: [1:03:42] Social Media: Twitter: @FreeKickPod Instagram: @FreeKickPod Facebook: @FreeKickPod YouTube: The Free Kick https://thefreekick.substack.com/ Jose's Social Media: Twitter: @JoserNunez91 https://nunezj.substack.com/ Icarus Football x Forbidden Closet x Olivia Smith Looking for your newest soccer jersey? Our friends over at Forbidden Closet have partnered with Icarus Football and Local Philadelphia designer Olivia Smith to design "Philadelphia Football" jerseys, inspired by Brazil's 1992 kit and France's 1982 kit. Preorder your jersey through August 9th .

After defeating the Seattle Sounders 1-0 on Saturday and the New York Red Bulls 3-1 last Wednesday, the Philadelphia Union turn their attention to last-place Atlanta United, who are coming off a 4-1 loss to the New England Revolution.The Union will be hoping for their third consecutive win, which would mark the first time in 2026 that the club has won three straight matches. Joining Todd to preview Saturday's game is MLS Season Pass on Apple TV commentator Jessica Charman. Jessica shares her insights on what went wrong for Atlanta against New England and what has plagued the club throughout what has been an extremely disappointing season for the Five Stripes. Todd also discusses the pending moves of Olwethu Makhanya to Rangers in Scotland and Philippe Ndinga to Zulte Waregem. News: Olwethu Makhanya and Philippe Ndinga on the verge of leaving Philadelphia Union: [1:36] Atlanta United preview: [20:44] Will Ryan Richter rotate: [39:00] Social Media: Twitter: @FreeKickPod Instagram: @FreeKickPod Facebook: @FreeKickPod YouTube: The Free Kick https://thefreekick.substack.com/ Jose's Social Media: Twitter: @JoserNunez91 https://nunezj.substack.com/ Jess' Social Media: Twitter: @ JessTalksFootie Instagram: @ jesstalksfootie

Two games into the Ryan Richter era, the Philadelphia Union have two wins, edging the struggling Seattle Sounders 1–0 thanks to Milan Iloski's fifth consecutive game with a goal. Todd and José share their thoughts on the match and discuss several key topics, including Milan Iloski's outstanding run of seven goals in five consecutive games, Frankie Westfield's Man of the Match performance, and the players' buy-in to Ryan Richter's message. Blunder of the Week goes to FC Cincinnati's Gerardo Valenzuela for his red card for kicking Taha Habroune. News: Frankie Westfield named to MLS Team of the Matchday 19: [7:10] Philadelphia Union v Seattle Sounders: Overall thoughts / Andre Blake, Indiana Vassilev and Danley Jean Jacques impress again: [17:56] Milan Iloski's form: [30:30] Frankie Westfield continues to impress / young homegrown's Cavan Sullivan and Neil Pierre: [38:07] Players continue to buy into Ryan Richter's message: [58:00] Blunder of the Week: FC Cincinnati's Gerardo Valenzuela's red card: [1:01:36] Social Media: Twitter: @FreeKickPod Instagram: @FreeKickPod Facebook: @FreeKickPod YouTube: The Free Kick https://thefreekick.substack.com/ Jose's Social Media: Twitter: @JoserNunez91 https://nunezj.substack.com/

The Ryan Richter era is officially underway, as the Philadelphia Union defeat Red Bull New York by a score of 3-1, marking the Union's first win under the interim coach, and their first win since April 11th. Todd and Jillian discuss their thought's on the game including: Kai Wagner and Quinn Sullivan's emotional returns, the Union's attack looking the strongest they have all season, the belief and confidence Richter brings to this group and taking it one game at a time. News: Kai Wagner named to MLS Team of Matchday 16+17: [5:30] Philadelphia Union v Red Bull New York: Kai Wagner reception: [10:25] Bruno Damiani and Frankie Westfield's misses: [13:53] Quinn Sullivan reception: [34:30] Union attack is back?: [39:17] Will the Union sign another player: [51:32] Ryan Richter brings a belief and confidence to the team: [1:01:44] Taking it one game at a time: [1:09:58] Social Media: Twitter: @FreeKickPod Instagram: @FreeKickPod Facebook: @FreeKickPod YouTube: The Free Kick https://thefreekick.substack.com/ Jose's Social Media: Twitter: @JoserNunez91 https://nunezj.substack.com/ Kyle and Jillian's Social Media: Twitter @ Silly__Jilly Twitter: @ CoachAlmoney theoneteamweagreeon.com

The 2026 FIFA World Cup has officially come to an end after a month of matches across North America. Todd is joined by Jasmine Ferreira and Mike Barrera to discuss their experiences throughout the tournament. Topics include volunteering with FIFA, attending matches as fans, and what the hope is for the United States going forward with soccer in the country. Photo: Carl Gulbish | Philadelphia Soccer Now Social Media: Twitter: @FreeKickPod Instagram: @FreeKickPod Facebook: @FreeKickPod YouTube: The Free Kick https://thefreekick.substack.com/ Jose's Social Media: Twitter: @JoserNunez91 https://nunezj.substack.com/ Jasmine's Social Media: Instagram: jasferreira23 Tiktok: jasferreira23 Mike's Social Media: Twitter: mbarrera1323

Todd was down at Philadelphia Union training on Saturday, for Kai Wagner's first interview with the media since he returned to the club from Birmingham City. Wagner discussed why he came back to Philadelphia, conversations with Sporting Director Jon Scheer, and reflecting on his time in Birmingham. Nathan Harriel shares his thought's on Wagner's return, leadership, and how Wednesday's match against Red Bull New York can be the turnaround the team needs. While Jon Scheer talks about re-acquiring Wagner, updates on Olwethu Makhanya, Neil Pierre and the clubs search for another forward. Social Media: Twitter: @FreeKickPod Instagram: @FreeKickPod Facebook: @FreeKickPod YouTube: The Free Kick https://thefreekick.substack.com/ Jose's Social Media: Twitter: @JoserNunez91 https://nunezj.substack.com/

In a shocking turn of events, just six months after leaving the Philadelphia Union for Birmingham City in the English Football Championship, Kai Wagner has returned to the Union. He provides the team with much-needed stability in the backline, along with the leadership qualities it severely lacked in the first half of the MLS season. Todd and José share their thoughts on the news and discuss what could be next for the Philadelphia Union after sporting director Jon Scheer made his first major move. Kai Wagner is back: Philadelphia Union re-acquire Kai Wagner: [3:15] Is there an advantage of having Ryan Richter as interim head coach with the work he's had with Union II: [16:00] How vital will Wagner's arrival be for Alladoh: [20:56] Kai Wagner on not wanting to see the ship go down: [23:06] Jon Scheer on why Wagner made sense: [30:00] How much do you think it hurts Bradley Carnell to see Wagner back / will Quinn Sullivan play on Wednesday: [46:41] "We need stability. We need leadership. We need to drive competition within the group." - Jon Scheer: [52:24] Social Media: Twitter: @FreeKickPod Instagram: @FreeKickPod Facebook: @FreeKickPod YouTube: The Free Kick https://thefreekick.substack.com/ Jose's Social Media: Twitter: @JoserNunez91 https://nunezj.substack.com/

The Philadelphia Union have been busy over the last couple of weeks, with the club announcing the promotion of Paul Killian to Academy Director, Ben Moane, Fred da Silva, and Henry Apaloo to interim assistant coaches with the first team, and waiving Olivier Mbaizo. Todd and José share their thoughts on the latest changes at the club. They also discuss the FIFA World Cup so far, with the knockout stages kicking off. Fifa World Cup: World Cup games in Philadelphia: [5:44] USMNT v Bosnia: [34:52] Philadelphia Union fantasy camp: Overall thought's on media game: [43:26] Philadelphia Union coaching changes: Ben Moane, Fred da Silva, and Henry Apaloo to interim assistant coaches with the first team: [54:04] Philadelphia Union waive Olivier Mbaizo: Nine year career comes to an end: [1:02:32] Transfer plans for the Union: [1:09:22] Social Media: Twitter: @FreeKickPod Instagram: @FreeKickPod Facebook: @FreeKickPod YouTube: The Free Kick https://thefreekick.substack.com/ Jose's Social Media: Twitter: @JoserNunez91 https://nunezj.substack.com/

On Monday, Philadelphia Union II took on Côte d'Ivoire at Subaru Park in the African nation's final tune-up before the start of its World Cup campaign. Philadelphia Union II welcomed Cavan Sullivan back to the second team for the first time since 2025. The match also saw former Union II players and current college standouts Jojo Elliott (Delaware), Henry Bernstein (Maryland), Gavin Wetsel (Pittsburgh), and Daniel Krueger (Wake Forest) return to the fold. Most notably, however, the match marked the return of former Philadelphia Union midfielder Anthony Fontana to Subaru Park for the first time since 2021, when the Union lost 2–1 to NYCFC in the Eastern Conference Final. Todd and José are joined by Anthony Fontana to discuss Jim Curtin to Austin FC, Fontana's experience training with Union II over the past few weeks, playing in his first match at Subaru Park since 2021, what he hopes his next move is in his career, and the 2026 World Cup. Jim Curtin announced as next Austin FC coach: [4:07] Union II vs Ivory Coast: How the opportunity came about for Fontana: [23:25] Impressions of Union II / mentoring the younger players: [29:24] Walking out onto the field for the first time since 2021: [38:24] Being a captain while on the field: [52:50] Reaction to the applause when subbing in: [56:42] 2026 World Cup: Four former Philadelphia Union players in World Cup squad: [1:09:52] People criticizing Paxten Aaronson's move back to MLS: [1:15:15] Difficulties of transfers: [1:21:57] Fan appreciation for Fontana: [1:31:13] Social Media: Twitter: @FreeKickPod Instagram: @FreeKickPod Facebook: @FreeKickPod YouTube: The Free Kick https://thefreekick.substack.com/ Jose's Social Media: Twitter: @JoserNunez91 https://nunezj.substack.com/ José and Anthony's catch up last year Anthony's social media: Instagram: @ fontana.99

The Philadelphia Union announced on Wednesday that they have parted ways with head coach Bradley Carnell after a 1-10-4 start in MLS this season. The club announced that Philadelphia Union II head coach Ryan Richter will serve as the interim head coach. The club also announced that Jon Scheer will serve as the clubs new Sporting Director after serving as the interim since March. Todd and José give their thoughts on all the news, as well as their thoughts on Principal Owner Jay Sugarman and Jon Scheer's Thursday press conference with the media. News: Olwethu Makhanya named to South Africa World Cup squad: [5:07] Philadelphia Union make sporting changes: Bradley Carnell fired after 1-10-4 start to season: [14:17] Ryan Richter named interim head coach of first team: [35:30] Jon Scheer Named as Sporting Director: [49:38] Ernst Tanner updates: [54:28] Upcoming transfer window: [ 1:15:55] Social Media: Twitter: @FreeKickPod Instagram: @FreeKickPod Facebook: @FreeKickPod YouTube: The Free Kick https://thefreekick.substack.com/ Jose's Social Media: Twitter: @JoserNunez91 https://nunezj.substack.com/