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.
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.
Coach Carnell’s Flexible Tactical Plans for Iloski
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.
“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
This adaptability suggests the coaching staff is still exploring how to best utilize Iloski’s talents across various game situations, potentially shifting him between attacking roles depending on opponents and match flow.
Iloski’s Versatility and Personal Preferences in Play
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.
Still, Iloski expresses a preference for positions closer to goal, where he can operate around the box and finish scoring opportunities. This tendency was evident during a recent MLS match against D.C. United where he took five shots, two on target, and also materialized in a preseason goal running off the ball against CF Montréal.
“I think in an ideal world, I enjoy being around the goal more,”
said Iloski, reflecting on his favored role.
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
Despite this preference, Iloski acknowledges the shifting demands of his position and is willing to prioritize the team’s success over personal comfort.
“I also know I can be that creative player who can come inside or can float underneath the strikers,”
he added.
“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
Leadership Expectations and Team Goals
At 26 years old and hailing from California, Iloski is stepping into a role that involves more than just on-field performance. Having been brought to Philadelphia midseason with the ambition of capturing a championship, he and the Union achieved the Supporters’ Shield but fell short in other key competitions. Iloski is now embracing a leadership role both on and off the pitch to help guide the team further.
“I think stepping up in a big way,
he said.
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
This leadership is crucial as the Union aims to defend the 2025 Supporters’ Shield and continue advancing in the Concacaf Champions Cup, maintaining their standing as a competitive MLS side with ambitions on multiple fronts.
Looking Ahead: Iloski’s Role in the Union’s Future
The shift in Milan Iloski’s position to the No. 10 spot represents both an opportunity and a challenge for the Philadelphia Union. With his blend of scoring ability, creativity, and willingness to adapt, Iloski could become a pivotal figure in the team’s attacking dynamic. His partnership with forward Ezekiel Alladoh, noted for his imposing physical presence, adds another dimension to the Union’s offense, potentially opening up space and chances for others.
As the season progresses through high-stakes matches at Subaru Park and beyond, the coaching staff’s tactical experiments and Iloski’s leadership will be key factors in determining how far the Union can go. 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.
