For the past decade, Jim Curtin has been at the helm of the Philadelphia Union, and his recent contract extension until 2026 solidifies his status as the MLS's longest-serving coach. Under his leadership, the team currently holds a top-three position in the Eastern Conference, maintaining an impressive record, remaining undefeated, and securing a spot among the top eight teams in Leagues Cup 2023.
Curtin, at 44 years old, led his team to the runner-up position in the 2022 MLS season. The team also claimed the Supporter's Shield in 2020 and made it to the MLS Cup final the previous year. In addition, they reached the CONCACAF Champions League semifinals twice (in 2021 and 2023) and contested three U.S. Open Cup finals (in 2014, 2015, and 2018).
Owner Jay Sugarman expressed his satisfaction, stating, "Jim ranks among the league's premier coaches, and we are delighted to extend his leadership with the Union. As we set ambitious goals for the coming years, Jim is an integral part of our pursuit of these objectives."
Curtin's journey began as an interim coach in 2013 before securing a permanent role. His transition from academy coach to first-team leader was backed by the patience of the Philadelphia team's owners. His pre-2023 Leagues Cup record stands at 174 wins, 115 losses, and 75 draws across all competitions.
Curtin was rewarded for his work when he clinched the MLS Coach of the Year title in both 2020 and 2022. In the ongoing summer tournament, he orchestrated victories in all four matches, including an impressive 5-1 triumph against Club Querétaro, their upcoming opponent in the quarter-finals this Friday.
The Philadelphia Union has firmly established its position as a dominant force in the MLS, currently ranking third in the Eastern Conference. The team is committed to nurturing young talent, evident through Curtin's guidance that facilitated lucrative transfers to Europe, such as Brenden Aaronson, Paxten Aaronson, and Mark McKenzie.
Ernst Tanner, the sporting director of the Philadelphia Union, praised Curtin's continuous efforts, saying, "Jim consistently propels the team to higher echelons, proving he is among the league's most accomplished coaches. His dedication to victory, the development of our emerging players, and his unwavering loyalty to the club and city speak volumes about his coaching acumen and character. His ongoing leadership is pivotal to our future club strategy."
Under Curtin's stewardship, the Philadelphia Union has secured playoff qualifications in all seasons except for 2016. Their current form makes them strong contenders in Leagues Cup 2023. Can Curtin further elevate the team's performance and guide them to lift the coveted trophy?
