In this episode, Todd and José reflect on their recent interview with Kai Wagner and share their biggest takeaways from the conversation. They then discuss the Union's preseason plans abroad in Spain, before shifting focus back to Clearwater, Florida, where the Union will face SK Sigma Olomouc, FC Nordsjælland, FK Budućnost, Tampa Bay Rowdies, and CF Montréal. The conversation includes what fans should be watching for as the team moves closer to the start of the MLS season. Finally, they break down the Union's first press conference of 2026, where the recurring theme was clear: more signings are coming. What does that messaging actually mean, and how does it fit into the broader picture of this preseason?

Kai Wagner Interview Takeaways: [2:24]

Preseason Preview: Spain & Florida: [15:10]

Overall theme from Union first press conference of 2026: [25:33]

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In this episode, Todd and José sit down with Kai Wagner to reflect on his seven seasons with the Philadelphia Union — from his arrival as a relatively unknown player in 2019 to becoming a key part of the squad. Kai opens up about the challenges of the MLS Is Back Tournament, the highs and near-misses of the 2022 season, and the drama surrounding contract negotiations and coaching transitions. We also discuss fan speculation, life in Birmingham, and the moments he's most proud of during his time in Philly. A must-listen for Union fans and anyone curious about the inside story of one of MLS's most consistent performers.

• Arrival in Philadelphia: Signing in 2019: [3:26]

• MLS Is Back Tournament: Challenges as a new player: [6:20]

• 2022 Season: Reflections on near-success: [11:32]

• 2023 Contract Negotiations: "Pay Kai" and fan influence: [15:12]

• European Rumors: Staying focused amid speculation: [19:29]

• Coaching Changes: Jim Curtin to Bradley Carnell: [21:58]

• Early 2025 Transition: Teammate departures and team mood: [32:45]

• Life in Birmingham: On and off the field: [39:34]

• Legacy in Philly: Favorite moments: [49:23]

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 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]

Twitter: @FreeKickPod

Instagram: @FreeKickPod

Facebook: @FreeKickPod

YouTube: The Free Kick

https://thefreekick.substack.com/

Jose's Social Media:

Twitter: @JoserNunez91

https://nunezj.substack.com/