Photo courtesy of Darby Winter/Special to The Philly Soccer Page

The Union’s congested early season schedule makes player rotations necessary, and the business of finding head coach Bradley Carnell’s best XI continues both on and off the field, as does the work of building Union II. Today, off the field, Philadelphia Union announced that they have acquired defender Philippe Ndinga on a permanent transfer from Degerfors IF in Sweden’s top flight, the Allsvenskan.

The team have also loaned forward Markus Anderson to USL Championship side Brooklyn FC through the 2026 season, where he will continue to develop under former Union II Head Coach, Marlon LeBlanc.

In Union II news, the team have re-signed midfielder Óscar Benítez to an MLS NEXT Pro contract for the 2026 season. Benítez remains on Union II’s active roster and will continue to occupy an international roster slot.

A few notes on the moves:

• Ndinga 20, arrives in Philadelphia following a productive 2025 campaign with Degerfors IF. He joins the Union as a U22 Initiative signing and is guaranteed through the 2028-2029 season with an option through the 2029-2030 season. Ndinga will be added to the Union’s active roster upon receipt of his P1 Visa and International Transfer Certificate (ITC).“Philippe is a dynamic defender with the ability to play confidently with both feet, which gives us valuable flexibility in the back line,” said Philadelphia Union Head Coach Bradley Carnell. “His aggressive style of defending fits our system well, and we’re excited to welcome him to the club.”

• Anderson made three MLS appearances and one start in 2025, scoring the game winning goal against Charlotte FC on June 14, 2025. During his time with Union II, he made 21 appearances (16 starts), scoring six goals and registering three assists. He also started in all three Union II playoff games.

• Benítez appeared in 21 matches during the 2025 MLS NEXT Pro season, making nine starts while playing a consistent role across Union II’s midfield and defensive rotations.“Óscar [Benítez] has shown consistent progress and maturity within our environment last season,” said Philadelphia Union II Head Coach Ryan Richter. “His work rate, defensive presence, and ability to impact games in key moments were valuable for us, and we’re excited to continue his development heading into 2026.”