Freddy Adu To Join Philadelphia Union

Yesterday reports were saying that Freddy Adu would be returning to Major League Soccer and joining Chivas USA. Those reports were only half right. Adu has reportedly signed with the Philadelphia Union instead.

The 22-year-old Adu is likely returning to the MLS on a free transfer from Benfica, where he signed in 2007. After inking that deal with Benfica, Adu earned just 11 caps with the team, and spent the next four years being loaned out to various clubs in several countries. Adu had spells with AS Monaco (France), Belenenses (Portugal), Aris (Greece) and Caykur Rizespor (Turkey).

Adu’s deal with Chivas fell apart when owner Jorge Vergara decided signing him as a designated player was not in the club’s best interest. The Union quickly swept in and snagged the former teen sensation. Philadelphia head coach Peter Nowak was Adu’s coach when he entered the MLS with D.C. United.

Adu will be joining a team near the top of the Eastern Conference, as the Union currently sit just one point behind the Columbus Crew for the conference lead. The team’s new midfielder will be expected to immediately provide a play-making presence in Philadelphia.

This is a great move for Adu. He was essentially in career limbo in Europe, and without any clubs making offers for him, moving back to the MLS was definitely his best option. He’ll get a chance to play regularly, hone his skills, and he’ll probably end up getting another shot at Europe in the future. For now, it’s best for Adu to be home and actually playing.