Day eleven of Eintracht Frankfurt’s ADIDAS U.S. TOUR brought final preparations and emotional reunions as the Eagles gear up for their friendly against Philadelphia Union on Saturday. Head coach Dino Toppmöller expressed his satisfaction with the team’s mentality ahead of the crucial test match.
Final Training Under German-Like Conditions
“Today the boys completed another good unit – it was really a train in it,” Toppmöller said after Friday’s session. “For the first time, by the way, under weather conditions, as we also know them from Germany. We now want to end the training camp on Saturday with a good game against a really good team from Philadelphia Union.”
The coach deliberately opted for a regenerative approach on Thursday before ramping up intensity for the final preparation session in Philadelphia.
Emotional Homecoming for Paxten Aaronson
For midfielder Paxten Aaronson, Saturday’s match represents a special homecoming. The 24-year-old joined Philadelphia Union’s academy at age ten and developed through their system before making his professional debut.
“Of course, returning to the club where it all started for me feels good,” Aaronson reflected. “When I was ten years old, I joined Union and made my way into the first team. For me it will be a special game, I am really looking forward to it.”
Aaronson’s Development Impresses Toppmöller
The head coach praised Aaronson’s growth following his loan spell at FC Utrecht: “What he did there was impressive. We are glad that he is back with us. He has so far taken on an important role in the games in pressing, and the number of ball wins is strong.”
Aaronson credited his Netherlands experience for his development: “The most important thing was to get into this rhythm, play a lot, and also learn to listen to your body. I have improved my game in several ways, including playing in different positions.”
Back at his training club: Paxten Aaronson. Credit: Eintracht Frankfurt
World Cup 2026 Ambitions
Looking ahead to the 2026 World Cup in the USA, Canada, and Mexico, Aaronson sees Eintracht as the perfect platform: “If I want to be part of the US team, then there is no better club for me than Eintracht. How the club itself has developed and, above all, how young players are trained there, has fascinated me from the beginning.”
Expectations for New Season
Despite losing key striker Hugo Ekitiké, Toppmöller remains optimistic about the upcoming campaign: “We have a great spirit in the team. I am very happy to work with these guys. They have a great mindset, always want to improve, and have a great relationship with each other.”
The coach emphasized the club’s consistent ambitions: “It is always our goal to fight for one of the international starting places. We have to work hard – then we’ll see.”
Fan Engagement in Philadelphia
The tour has also featured significant fan engagement, with Eintracht supporters from across the USA gathering in Philadelphia. Board member Philipp Reschke hosted fans for a classic Philadelphia cheesesteak experience, creating a lively exchange in a relaxed atmosphere.
Eintracht fans from all over the USA have come to Philadelphia. The SGE supporters meet with board member Philipp Reschke for good food and lively exchange.
Team Updates
Goalkeeper Kaua Santos has returned to training after a medical examination following the US camp, completing exercises on the training ground as he continues his rehabilitation program.
Saturday’s friendly against Philadelphia Union kicks off at 5:30 PM local time (11:30 PM CEST), with live coverage available on EintrachtTV+. The match will serve as the perfect conclusion to Eintracht’s comprehensive preparation tour as they build momentum for the new Bundesliga season.
