Philadelphia Union Stars Anchor USMNT Ahead of 2026 Cycle

As the U.S. builds toward the 2026 World Cup on home soil, the Philadelphia Union is delivering a remarkable contribution—several homegrown stars have earned places and playing time under Mauricio Pochettino during the 2025 Gold Cup and preceding friendlies.

Key Union Call-Ups

Quinn Sullivan – The dynamic attacking midfielder has burst onto the senior stage in 2025, snagging his first USMNT call-up and debut during the spring friendlies. A breakout MLS season has seen him log impressive numbers for the Union, now earning him a spot in the Gold Cup roster.

Nathan Harriel – Versatile fullback Harriel earned his second-ever senior call-up to play in friendlies and was included in the June Gold Cup squad thanks to strong club performances.

Jack McGlynn – The combative midfielder, now with the Houston Dynamo, was developed in Philadelphia. McGlynn collected his first USMNT minutes in January 2025 and added his first senior goal that summer, securing a spot in the lineup.

Mark McKenzie – The former Union center-back, now at Toulouse in France, remains a key defensive option at the national level with 22 caps and inclusion in the ongoing Gold Cup roster.

Aaronson Brothers – Brenden and Paxten both came through the Philadelphia system before showcasing their talents abroad. Brenden, now at Leeds, continues to provide goals and depth on the wing. Paxten, featuring for FC Utrecht on loan from Eintracht Frankfurt, made successive senior call-ups and appears in the Gold Cup squad.

A Local Pipeline Fueling National Ambitions

• In total, six players with Union roots are in this summer’s Gold Cup roster: Sullivan, Harriel, McKenzie, McGlynn, and Brenden & Paxten Aaronson, with Matt Freese also on the broader training bubble.

• This depth reflects the Union Academy’s success: developing players who can transition from local standing to global competition and national team relevance.