2016 Player Review: Alejandro Bedoya

2016 Summary: Alejandro Bedoya became the Philadelphia Union’s biggest transfer ever after joining the club this past August from FC Nantes in Ligue 1. The 29-year-old American international joined the team as a Designated Player for a transfer fee of around $1 million, and started in all 10 games he appeared in for Jim Curtin’s side. He registered two goals for the Union, both against Toronto FC. Beyond his play on the field, it was encouraging to see Earnie Stewart make a splash in the transfer window with a signing of Bedoya’s caliber.

What did he do right: As stated above, he jumped into the starting XI right away, playing in a central midfield role. It is already known that Bedoya has the talent capable of being a threat in the MLS, and a full offseason ahead should give him plenty of time to gel even more with his teammates, as well as give Curtin the opportunity to figure out the best place for him in the side.

What did he do wrong: Because Ligue 1 was in the offseason, Bedoya was tasked with having to make a quick adjustment to the MLS after having time off. Along with adjusting to the overall style of play, he had to get used to playing with the Union rather quickly and learn their style. Playing at the 8 may not have been the best move for Bedoya, but it’s never easy joining a team that late into a season.

Most memorable moment of 2016: Bedoya’s chip against Toronto in September surely takes the cake here.