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Philadelphia Union fire coach Bradley Carnell amid overhaul

PUBLISHED May 27, 2026, 5:07 PM ET

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Sources: 4

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Sources: 4

PHILADELPHIA — The Philadelphia Union fired coach Bradley Carnell on Wednesday as part of a front-office overhaul that named Jon Scheer sporting director and elevated Ryan Richter, head coach of Philadelphia Union II, to interim first-team coach. The move followed a 1-10-4 start to the season, the worst record among MLS's 30 teams. Union principal owner Jay Sugarman praised Carnell's professionalism and expressed confidence in Richter as the club begins a search for a permanent head coach. Less than a year earlier Carnell had led the team to the league's best regular-season record and a top playoff seed before elimination in the quarterfinals; Scheer has worked in academy and development roles since 2018.

By Sarah Whitman | JQJO News

Timeline of Events

2018: Jon Scheer begins work with Philadelphia Union in academy and development roles.
2022–24: Ryan Richter serves as assistant head coach for the first team.
January 2025: Ryan Richter appointed head coach of Philadelphia Union II.
Less than a year earlier: Bradley Carnell led the Union to the best regular-season record and top playoff seed.
Wednesday (recent): Union fire Bradley Carnell; name Jon Scheer sporting director and Ryan Richter interim first-team coach with team at 1-10-4.

News Intelligence

If you're a Philadelphia Union fan, this shake-up could impact the team's performance. It's a chance for new strategies and fresh leadership. Keep an eye on upcoming games to see how the changes play out on the field.

Media Bias

Articles Published:: 4
Right Leaning:: 0
Left Leaning:: 0
Neutral:: 4

Who Benefited

Philadelphia Union's front office and interim coach Ryan Richter gained authority to oversee first-team coaching duties and sporting operations following the shakeup.

Who Impacted

Bradley Carnell lost his head coaching position after the team's 1-10-4 start, and supporters and players face immediate season instability.

Media Bias

Articles Published:: 4
Right Leaning:: 0
Left Leaning:: 0
Neutral:: 4
Distribution:: Left 0%, Center 100%, Right 0%

Who Benefited

Philadelphia Union's front office and interim coach Ryan Richter gained authority to oversee first-team coaching duties and sporting operations following the shakeup.

Who Impacted

Bradley Carnell lost his head coaching position after the team's 1-10-4 start, and supporters and players face immediate season instability.