The Union utilize MLS’s new cash for player trade rule in a deal that looks to benefit both Jack and the Union.

Today the Philadelphia Union announced that midfielder Jack McGlynn, a 21 year old homegrown from Middle Village, New York, has been traded to the Houston Dynamo for $2,100,000 plus a future sell on percentage, and if certain performance metrics are met, an additional $1,300,000.

McGlynn, who signed a homegrown contract in 2020 that went into effect 1/1/21, spent 2020 with Union II before playing with the first team 2021-2024. In that time, he made 99 appearances, scored seven goals, and had 13 assists. He also was called to US Youth National Squads at multiple levels, and represented the United States in the 2024 Olympic Games in Paris, making three appearances. Most recently, McGlynn appeared with the USMNT at the January camp and featured in two friendlies. He scored a blistering goal from outside the box in the match versus Venezuela on January 18, 2025. After the camp, he traveled to Marbella, Spain to join the Union at the tail end of preseason, playing in their friendly with Aarhus Gymnastikforenin.

From the Union’s press release:

“We want to thank Jack for his dedication and contributions to the team, both on and off the field,” said Philadelphia Union Sporting Director, Ernst Tanner. “Over the past three years, he has been a key part of our midfield, and we are incredibly proud of his growth. At this time, we believe this move is best for both the club and for Jack, allowing us to use the significant proceeds to reinvest and refine our roster, while placing him in an environment suited to his style of play and continued development. We have no doubt he’ll enjoy a successful career, and we look forward to following his journey.”

While the move may seem shocking and/or disappointing to fans- Jack is a fan favorite and up and coming star both domestically and internationally- it makes sense as he was not going to fit into Ernst Tanner’s and Bradley Carnell’s system, and would fare much better in Houston with their style of play. He could very well end up being a sort of rental in Houston and move on to Europe, and the Union will receive compensation in the sell on percentages. One would hope to see his star continue to rise and for him to be in the best situation for his growth, and not be held back in a system that does not allow him to reach his full potential. It’s kind of like keeping Saquon Barkley with the Giants… look what happened when he got into a team that complemented him. (Also, go Birds)

Top Jack McGlynn Moments

In no particular order, here are some of my favorite highlights from Jack McGlynn from the past few years:

Absolute Banger in DC – 5/4/24

This should have been goal of the year. The skill on this is far better than anything I saw all season in 2024. This definitely clears a chipped goal from distance, with respect to Luca Orellano who had a great goal to be sure, but Jack’s was something I feel privileged to have witnessed in person.

Golazo vs. Venezuela on 1/18/25 with USMNT:

Jack got the world’s attention with this one. I about dropped my phone on the pool deck in shock as I was coaching at a meet and trying to watch the game.

Jack scores the game winning PK in playoff game versus Nashville in 2021:

Ice in the veins! This might just be my favorite one. I was watching in the River End, right behind the goal, the night the Union beat Nashville in PKs to advance to the Eastern Conference Final (which would later be infamous for being the “COVID” game). The kid had confidence and buried it.

Jack (and Nate Harriel) at the Paris Olympics in 2024

My other half on “The One Team We Agree On” and I had the opportunity to talk to Jack on several occasions in post game/training situations, and Kyle and I interviewed both Jack and Nate Harriel after they returned from the Olympics. It was incredible seeing those two representing the United States.

As he embarks on a new step in his career, all the best to Jack for a bright future.

Main article photo courtesy of the Philadelphia Union