UPDATE: The Philadelphia Union has officially signed Ghanaian striker Ezekiel Alladoh for a club-record fee of $4.5 million, marking a significant step in the team’s offensive strategy. Just two days into his tenure, Alladoh is already making waves with his impressive 6-foot-3 frame and explosive talent.
In a statement following a training session on Wednesday, Alladoh expressed excitement about joining the Union, saying, “They have a good project here. They have younger boys here, and they look like a family.” This sentiment highlights his eagerness to integrate into the team after a rapid ascent in his career, which began with his first professional contract with Accra Lions in 2024.
Alladoh’s journey continued with a successful stint at Swedish club IF Brommapojkarna, where he netted seven goals in 28 league matches last season. Coach Bradley Carnell praised Alladoh’s “pace, directness, and vertical movement,” emphasizing that his skills align perfectly with the Union’s aggressive playing style.
The Union aims to leverage Alladoh’s speed and ability to challenge defenses. He noted, “I like when it’s a more open game,” indicating his readiness to adapt to the demands of Major League Soccer (MLS). The team’s tactical approach requires strikers to engage in defensive pressing, a challenge that Alladoh is prepared to meet.
Just days after arriving in Philadelphia, Alladoh is getting acclimated to his new environment. He revealed, “It’s cold, but it’s not cold like Sweden,” as he adjusts to both the climate and the time zone. His confidence is evident, as he stated, “I’m coming here to make my name,” signaling his ambition to establish himself in the league.
As the Union prepares for their preseason training camp in Marbella, Spain, Alladoh’s integration will be crucial. He will join fellow forward Bruno Damiani, who scored seven goals in his first MLS season, to form a dynamic attacking partnership. The team hopes Alladoh can replicate the pressure and field-stretching capability that past strikers have provided.
In addition to Alladoh’s signing, the Union is monitoring the health of players like Cavan Sullivan, who is dealing with an ankle injury, and Japhet Sery Larsen, who is currently training with the medical staff after his signing was announced earlier this week.
With the MLS season on the horizon, Alladoh’s arrival is a pivotal moment for the Philadelphia Union, setting the stage for an exciting season ahead. Fans and analysts alike are keenly watching how this promising young talent will impact the squad and make his mark in American soccer.
