End of an Era: Baribo, Wagner, Glesnes & More Depart in Union Offseason Shake-Up

Chester, PA — Winter 2025/26
After a Supporters’ Shield–winning regular season and a tough playoff exit to NYCFC, the Philadelphia Union are undergoing a major roster reset. Several key contributors have moved on—through transfers, expiring contracts, and declined options—as the club pivots toward a new era in 2026.

Core Departures

• Tai Baribo — Traded to D.C. United after leading the Union in goals. Physical, clinical, and dangerous in the box, Baribo’s presence will be tough to replace.

• Kai Wagner — A Union mainstay for seven seasons, Wagner transferred to Birmingham City FC in England’s Championship.

• Jakob Glesnes — The former MLS Defender of the Year was traded to the LA Galaxy, closing a memorable run as the team’s backline general.

Post-Playoff Roster Moves

Several more exits came after the November playoff loss:

• Mikael Uhre — Out of contract and not re-signed.

• David Vazquez — Traded back to San Diego FC, where his loan was made permanent.

• Chris Donovan, Isaiah LeFlore, Nick Pariano, Oliver Semmle — All had their contract options declined as part of the Union’s year-end roster decisions.

📝 Note: Jack McGlynn’s transfer to Houston Dynamo FC happened earlier in the 2025 season and was not part of the winter departures.

What’s Next?

With multiple high-profile exits, 2026 will look very different. But Philadelphia has cap space, allocation money, and a proven academy pipeline. Expect movement—both in the transfer window and on the pitch—as the next generation starts to take shape.

📸 For photos of these players in their final Union moments, visit @RAVN.photos.