A future without Gazdag

Philadelphia Union fans likely weren’t expecting Daniel Gazdag to leave the club so soon, especially with the 2025 MLS season just getting underway. His departure will no doubt be tough to accept, as he quickly established himself as the Union’s all-time leading goal scorer in just a few seasons. But now, he’s off to Columbus. As Philadelphia navigates the rest of the season, only time will tell how much his absence in the number 10 role will be felt. Let’s take a look at what Gazdag brought to the team—and how the Union can adapt and grow without him.

Pressing

Perhaps Gazdag’s most important trait during his time with the Philadelphia Union was his ability to lead the team’s press. Many of his goals came from quick turnovers—he reacted instantly, combined with teammates, and finished chances inside the box with ease. To be effective in a pressing system, a player needs a strong motor and the stamina to last through the rigors of a full MLS season. Gazdag had both.

While many players with elite talent struggle to maintain consistency or stay healthy throughout a campaign, Gazdag proved to be incredibly durable. He was a constant presence in the lineup and consistently found ways to contribute, whether through goals, assists, or simply his off-ball work.

Goal-Scoring Instincts

Unlike many traditional No. 10s in MLS, Gazdag thrived as a goal-poacher. He often positioned himself just underneath strikers like Uhre, Carranza, or Baribo, putting himself in dangerous scoring positions. His aggressive, box-crashing style created overloads in the penalty area and gave the Union a numerical edge in attacking phases.

His presence forced defenses to deal not only with the Union’s forwards but also with a midfielder who operated almost like a second striker. Kai Wagner’s crosses became even more threatening with Gazdag arriving late into the box. Combine this with his near-perfect penalty record, and the Union had a true attacking weapon.

Gazdag wrapped up three full seasons in Philadelphia with 65 goals—alongside contributions in his debut year and a few more to start 2025. His production put him in the same conversation as some of the league’s top forwards, making his value to the club undeniable.

How the Union Can Grow

Gazdag’s departure is undoubtedly a big loss, but it may not be as catastrophic as fans fear. One thing to keep in mind: This is no longer Jim Curtin’s team. Under new head coach Bradley Carnell, the Union have shifted from the narrow 4-4-2 diamond to a wider 4-2-2-2 formation.

In this system, Gazdag was pushed toward the sidelines—away from the heart of the action. His involvement in front of goal decreased, and in several matches, he was noticeably absent from the game’s flow. His fit in Carnell’s system may have been a bit forced, which makes the timing of the move more understandable.

So, where does the Union go from here? While no direct replacement has arrived yet, Indiana Vassilev is a solid short-term option. A left-footed midfielder operating on the right side, Vassilev will likely be tasked with delivering balls into the box for the two strikers while the deep-lying midfielders clean up second balls.

The recent addition of Bruno Damiani is key here. A physical, aerial threat, Damiani thrives on contact and doesn’t shy away from battles—making him a perfect target for Vassilev’s service. Since Vassilev lacks elite pace and right back Nathan Harriel isn’t especially attack-minded, Vassilev will likely look to cut inside often onto his strong left foot—the opposite dynamic of what Gazdag brought.

With the $4 million the Union have reportedly earned from Gazdag’s transfer, they have flexibility. If they’re looking to replace his goals, it may be tough to find that production within the current squad. A move for a pacey, winger-type player could be in the cards—someone who brings a different flavor than Vassilev, potentially making the Union more unpredictable.

That said, there’s a bigger tactical problem looming. MLS teams tend to build around a central playmaker—think Acosta, Puig, Mukhtar, Almirón, Giovinco, Cucho Hernández, and Messi. These players operate through the heart of the pitch, dictating tempo and slicing defenses open.

The Union’s current system doesn’t feature that type of role, and it could put them at a disadvantage against teams who do. Just last season, the New York Red Bulls added Emil Forsberg into a central creative role, and it paid off—carrying them all the way to an MLS Cup final appearance.

Unless the Union adjusts or brings in a central spark who can impact the game at decisive times, they may find themselves with their backs against the wall—at least until reinforcements arrive in the next international transfer window.