Alejandro Bedoya announces retirement from professional football

American midfielder Alejandro Bedoya has officially announced his retirement from professional football, which will take effect at the conclusion of the 2026 season. The 39-year-old, who has enjoyed a career spanning nearly two decades, expressed gratitude for the sport, describing it as a privilege that shaped his life.

Bedoya has spent the last decade with the Philadelphia Union, where he served as captain and helped lead the club to two Supporters’ Shields in 2020 and 2025, as well as an MLS Cup appearance in 2022. Philadelphia Union owner Jay Sugarman praised Bedoya as an integral part of the club’s growth and identity.

Throughout his career, the Colombian-born American international played for several clubs, including Rangers FC, Helsingborgs IF, and FC Nantes. During his three seasons with FC Nantes, he made 87 Ligue 1 appearances and scored 11 league goals. Bedoya also represented the United States national team, including participating in a World Cup.