Milan Iloski's New Role: Game-Changer for Union?

Iloski's shift to No. 10 boosts his impact and leadership in Philadelphia Union's evolving tactics this MLS season.

Published on Feb. 25, 2026

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Milan Iloski has recently embraced the No. 10 jersey for the Philadelphia Union, a role traditionally assigned to a key playmaker. This change coincides with the team's updated formation under coach Bradley Carnell, aiming to maximize Iloski's impact alongside the new offensive lineup. Despite limited time in this role early in the season, Iloski has already made significant contributions, scoring four goals and earning a Man-of-the-Match honor during the Union's 5-0 victory over Trinidad's Defence Force in the Concacaf Champions Cup opener.

Why it matters

With the season still in its early phase, the team's tactical adjustments are ongoing, but Iloski's immediate success signals promise for his evolving responsibilities. The upcoming matches, including the Concacaf return leg against Defence Force at Subaru Park and the MLS home opener versus New York City FC, will further test how effectively he adapts to this new position.

The details

Coach Bradley Carnell has highlighted the versatile nature of Iloski's role, emphasizing the multiple tactical options available that leverage Iloski's diverse skill set. Carnell noted that with an abundance of strikers currently on the squad, Iloski's development at the No. 10 position remains a work in progress. Iloski, who joined the Union midseason last year after an impressive scoring run with San Diego, understands the importance of evolving with the team's needs. His eight-goal stretch in San Diego quickly made him a sought-after player, and his contributions with the Union—including four goals and five assists in just 14 appearances—demonstrate his capability beyond being a mere scorer.

  • Milan Iloski recently embraced the No. 10 jersey for the Philadelphia Union.
  • Iloski scored four goals and earned a Man-of-the-Match honor during the Union's 5-0 victory over Trinidad's Defence Force in the Concacaf Champions Cup opener.

The players

Milan Iloski

A 26-year-old forward who joined the Philadelphia Union midseason last year after an impressive scoring run with San Diego.

Bradley Carnell

The head coach of the Philadelphia Union, who has highlighted the versatile nature of Iloski's role and the multiple tactical options available that leverage Iloski's diverse skill set.

Ezekiel Alladoh

A forward known for his imposing physical presence, who is expected to form a partnership with Iloski in the Union's offense.

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What they’re saying

“We have a bunch of things drawn up in my [coaches] room. There are different scenarios on tactical sheets of paper. We have an overload of strikers with us right now. So [we just need] Milan to build his foundation, I would say. We know what he brought us last year, through the summer [when he arrived] and down the stretch. He's a real weapon in both phases, whether it's in the possession phase or in the transition phase. … He has a bunch of things to learn even in the [No. 10] spot. But using him in the striker spot is an option as well. Right now, he's being used in that 10 spot, and we're confident we'll get greater value out of him there.”

— Bradley Carnell, Philadelphia Union Head Coach (theconwaybulletin.com)

“I think in an ideal world, I enjoy being around the goal more. I came here because I enjoyed playing next to someone, that's one thing I've talked with the coaching staff a lot about. I love playing next to someone up top.”

— Milan Iloski, Philadelphia Union Forward (theconwaybulletin.com)

“I also know I can be that creative player who can come inside or can float underneath the strikers. So, you know, for me, I'm open to anything that can help the team. And you know, I'm totally bought in. So whatever the staff needs from me is what I'll try and provide.”

— Milan Iloski, Philadelphia Union Forward (theconwaybulletin.com)

“I think stepping up in a big way. I was brought here midseason last year to help bring a trophy. And you know, we were happy to win the Supporters' Shield, but we fell short in other places. Now, it's for me to be an important player in the team and really be a leader in the locker room and make sure to implement those core values and, you know, things that this club stands for.”

— Milan Iloski, Philadelphia Union Forward (theconwaybulletin.com)

What’s next

The upcoming matches, including the Concacaf return leg against Defence Force at Subaru Park and the MLS home opener versus New York City FC, will further test how effectively Iloski adapts to his new No. 10 role.

The takeaway

If Iloski continues to develop in his new role, his transformation could prove to be the game-changer Philadelphia needs to defend its titles and push deeper into continental competitions.