The MLS club Philadelphia Union fired head coach Bradley Carnell on May 27 after a poor start to the 2026 season, recording a 1-10-4 record. Assistant coach Ryan Richter from Union II will serve as interim head coach while the organization launches a global search for a permanent replacement. The team also announced Jon Scheer as the new Sporting Director, overseeing player recruitment and technical strategy.
The Philadelphia Union fired their head coach Bradley Carnell amid a disappointing start to the season. The Major League Soccer club announced Carnell’s firing on Wednesday, May 27.
They plan to begin a global search for their next head coach immediately. Ryan Richter – who coaches the team’s affiliate Philadelphia Union II -- will be the club’s interim head coach.
"On behalf of the Philadelphia Union organization, I want to thank Bradley for his dedication and commitment to the club during his time here,” Jay Sugarman, the Philadelphia Union’s Principal Owner, said. “He brought professionalism and passion to his role, and we appreciate everything he has contributed to the team and the organization. We are confident that he will find success in his future coaching endeavors.
” Carnell was hired as the Union’s fourth head coach in team history in January 2025. He led the team to a Supporters’ Shield crest – an annual award given to the MLS team with the best regular season record -- and was named the Sigi Schmid MLS Coach of the Year in 2025.
However, the Union struggled under Carnell in the 2026 season. They currently have the worst record in the league at 1-10-4.
“I want to thank the fans, the players, the staff, and everyone involved with this club for the support and commitment during my time here,” Carnell said. “I’m proud of what we accomplished together and grateful for the relationships and memories we built along the way.
To my staff and especially the players, thank you for your hard work and dedication through both the highs and the challenges, you inspired me every day and I appreciate the opportunity to have been part of this team. ” The Union also announced Wednesday that they named Jon Scheer as their new Sporting Director. With the role, Scheer will oversee the club’s sporting operations, including player recruitment, roster management, scouting and technical strategy.
“Jon has consistently demonstrated strong leadership, a deep understanding of our club philosophy, and a clear vision for the future of the Philadelphia Union,” Sugarman said. “As we enter a new chapter for the organization, we are confident in Jon’s ability to lead our sporting operations and get us back on track with a culture centered around development, ambition, and sustained success.
” Scheer previously served as the Union’s Director of Academy and Professional Development and most recently as interim sporting director.
“I’m honored to take on the role of Sporting Director for the Philadelphia Union and want to thank our ownership group, as well as the mentors, colleagues, and staff members who have supported me throughout my time with the organization,” Scheer said. “This club has built a strong identity rooted in development, hard work, and a winning culture, and I understand the responsibility that comes with leading that vision forward.
I’m committed to helping drive the Union back to the standard our supporters, organization, and community expect. ”
Philadelphia Union MLS Coaching Change Bradley Carnell Fired Ryan Richter Interim Coach Jon Scheer Sporting Director
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