Philadelphia Union Acquire Defender Philippe Ndinga

20-year-old Congo youth international joins reigning Supporters' Shield winners

Published on Feb. 27, 2026

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The Philadelphia Union have acquired 20-year-old left back Philippe Ndinga from Swedish Allsvenskan side Degerfors IF. Ndinga, a Congo youth international, has signed a contract through the 2028-29 season with an option for 2029-30 and will occupy a U22 Initiative and international roster slot for the reigning Supporters' Shield champions.

Why it matters

The Union have made several defensive signings this offseason after transferring three-time MLS All-Star and two-time MLS Best XI left back Kai Wagner to the EFL Championship. Ndinga's addition provides the Union with a dynamic, two-footed defender who fits their aggressive defensive system.

The details

Ndinga, 20, produced one goal in 11 appearances across all competitions since joining Degerfors in August 2025. He had previous stints with the reserves of French lower-division sides Valenciennes FC, Pau FC and USL Dunkerque. Internationally, Ndinga has three caps for Congo's U-20 team.

  • The Union announced Ndinga's signing on February 27, 2026.
  • Ndinga signed a contract through the 2028-29 season with an option for 2029-30.

The players

Philippe Ndinga

A 20-year-old left back from Congo who has signed with the Philadelphia Union through the 2028-29 season with an option for 2029-30.

Bradley Carnell

The head coach of the Philadelphia Union, who said Ndinga's aggressive defending style fits the team's system well.

Kai Wagner

A three-time MLS All-Star and two-time MLS Best XI left back who was transferred by the Union to the EFL Championship side Birmingham City.

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What they’re saying

“Philippe is a dynamic defender with the ability to play confidently with both feet, which gives us valuable flexibility in the back line. His aggressive style of defending fits our system well, and we're excited to welcome him to the club.”

— Bradley Carnell, Union head coach (mlssoccer.com)

The takeaway

The Union have made a strategic move to bolster their defense by acquiring the young, versatile Ndinga from Sweden's top flight. This signing comes after the departure of their longtime starting left back Kai Wagner, signaling the club's commitment to maintaining a strong backline as they look to defend their Supporters' Shield title.