In this episode, Todd and José break down the Philadelphia Union's latest roster news which includes: Alejandro Bedoya re-signing through 2026, Ben Bender earning a contract extension, and Mikael Uhre officially departs for FC Midtjylland. We dive into what these moves mean for the Union's strategy, culture, and direction heading into the 2026 season.

News:

• Ben Bender re-signs through June 2027, with an option for 2028: [2:33]

• Alejandro Bedoya returns for year 11: [9:10]

• Mikael Uhre signs for FC Midtjylland: [21:35]

• Development is an ecosystem rather than a straight line: [31:42]

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After years of rumors linking clubs with Kai Wagner, he finally gets his move back to Europe, with the Philadelphia Union selling him to English Championship side Birmingham City. Todd and José discuss the deal and Wagner's legacy after seven years in Philadelphia, as he'll go down as one of the best players ever for the Union and one of the best left backs in MLS history. They also discuss the Union finalizing a deal for center back Japhet Sery Larsen, who plays for Norwegian top-flight club Brann, and how the Union's roster is shaping up ahead of the 2026 season, which begins in February.

• Kai Wagner Transferred to Birmingham City: [5:44]

• What Is Wagner's Legacy with the Philadelphia Union: [26:06]

• Wagner's Birmingham Debut: [37:22]

• Union Finalizing Deal for Japhet Sery Larsen: [50:18]

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 announced the signing of 19-year-old center back Finn Sundstrom from USL Championship side North Carolina FC. Todd shares his thoughts on the move and why it is not only a signing for the future, but one that can impact the present as well. Finally, Todd shares what he was thankful for in 2025.

News:

• Philadelphia Union sign Finn Sundstrom: [1:38]

• What are we thankful for in 2025: [19:34]

Twitter: @FreeKickPod

Instagram: @FreeKickPod

Facebook: @FreeKickPod

YouTube: The Free Kick

https://thefreekick.substack.com/

Jose's Social Media:

Twitter: @JoserNunez91

https://nunezj.substack.com/