Jim Curtin's Long Tenure at Philadelphia Union Sparks Controversy
- Jim Curtin was recently dismissed as the manager of the Philadelphia Union.
- The Union struggled in the 2024 season, failing to reach the postseason, marking their first such absence since 2017.
- The decision to part ways reflects a broader sentiment in MLS that teams must instill change more frequently to succeed.
The Philadelphia Union severed ties with manager Jim Curtin after a disappointing season in 2024, marking the end of his 11-year tenure with the club. This decision raised mixed opinions among fans and analysts, with some arguing that the club may be making a mistake. Despite primarily being regarded as a capable coach, Curtin's record does not exemplify a quick path to MLS Cup success, which can typically be achieved by new coaches within their first few seasons. The Union's long-standing underinvestment in the squad has been cited as a contributing factor to their challenges, suggesting that management may have overshadowed Curtin’s abilities. Signs of discontent among players, along with a failure to reach the postseason, indicated deeper issues needing resolution. The overall message hints that change should be embraced more regularly within MLS coaching ranks to foster development and success, aligning with the league's goals to enhance both player and managerial performance.