The Philadelphia Union’s 2024 schedule is less than two months from kicking off meaning the excitement of a new MLS Cup push will soon be beginning.

Jim Curtin’s squad have already learned their opponents not only for the 2024 CONCACAF Champions Cup, but also for the MLS regular season. From Lionel Messi to Cucho Hernandez to Hany Mukhtar, there is no shortage of opposing talent that awaits the Union next season.

Here is a closer look at the five Union matches to circle on your calendars for 2024:

Union vs. Chicago Fire – February 24

Opening night in any sport always comes with excitement and Union fans will certainly be excited for February 24.

The Chicago Fire visits Subaru Park for Matchday 1 in MLS, pitting former Union players Kacper Przybylko and Fabian Herbers up against their former club. Frank Klopas takes over for his latest stint as Fire head coach and should have an improved squad to call upon next year.

U.S. youth national team players Brian Gutierrez and Chris Brady are two rising young talents to watch for the Fire, while veteran attack Xherdan Shaqiri is worth the price of admission.

Nashville SC vs. Union – April 6

The Union earned one point in its first-ever trip to GEODIS Park in 2022 and will head back there next April with hopes of earning a full three.

Nashville SC has continued to be one of the more consistent MLS clubs in recent years. Hany Mukhtar’s dangerous attacking abilities make him one of the top players at his position. Walker Zimmerman’s veteran presence has also been key in Nashville SC’s backline.

A trip to Nashville to begin a three-match April schedule will certainly be tough.

Union vs. Inter Miami – June 15

The Union’s most recent showdown with Inter Miami ended in a forgettable fashion for the Boys in Blue, but June 15’s clash might bring more of a reward.

Lionel Messi and Co. are slated to visit Subaru Park next June, only five days before Argentina’s opening match at the 2024 Copa America. This could lead to Messi’s absence from the trip to Chester, opening the door for an easier overall match for the Union.

Still, Luis Suarez, Jordi Alba, and Sergio Busquets still pack a powerful punch for the Herons.

Union vs. Columbus Crew – August 24

To be the best, you’ve gotta beat the best..and the Union will have their opportunity to test themselves against the reigning champions in late-August.

The Columbus Crew will visit Subaru Park on the 24th for the first of two regular-season meetings. Wilfried Nancy enjoyed much success with the Crew in 2023, leading the club to their second MLS Cup title in the past four seasons.

Cucho Hernández remains one of the deadliest goalscorers in MLS while midfielders Darlington Nagbe and Aidan Morris are a strong 1-2 punch. However, I expect the Union to lay it all on the line at home, especially with a rowdy crowd behind them.

NYCFC vs. Union – September 18

NYCFC and the Union have had their share of recent history, but results have been in Philadelphia’s favor.

The Union have won their last five head-to-head matches with NYCFC, which included back-to-back road victories over 2022-23. After losing that memorable Eastern Conference Final in 2021 (heavily shorthanded by the way..), the Union have certainly taken out their anger on NYCFC.

In the past five matches, Philly has outscored NYCFC 12-4. Former Union goalkeeper Matt Freese has yet to play against his former club though, which certainly will be a storyline coming in.