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The Philadelphia Union has parted ways with head coach Bradley Carnell while also appointing Jon Scheer to be the Major League team’s new sporting director, the team announced on Wednesday afternoon.
“On behalf of the Philadelphia Union organization, I want to thank Bradley for his dedication and commitment to the club during his time here,” said Jay Sugarman, the team’s principal owner. “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 will be replaced by Ryan Richter, Philadelphia Union II Head Coach, on an interim basis, while the team searches for a permanent replacement.
Carnell was in his second season in charge of the team, after having led them to a second-ever Supporters’ Shield title.
His sophomore season in charge saw the team currently with one win, 10 losses and four draws, the worst record in MLS going into the FIFA World Cup break.
Before the season, the team sold several key players from the shield-winning squad, including forwards Tai Baribo and Mikael Uhre, and defenders Kai Wagner and Jakob Glesnes.
“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 in the team’s statement. “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.”
“While the search for a new head coach begins immediately, we have full confidence in Ryan’s ability to lead the team through this transition, given his familiarity with the players and strong commitment to the club’s philosophy and style of play,” said Sugarman.
Scheer, previously Union’s director of academy and professional development, had been serving as the interim sporting director while predecessor Ernst Tanner had been suspended by the league until June 1.
A league investigation into allegations of inappropriate workplace behavior that were reported by The Guardian last November found that Tanner had violated MLS policies and standards of professional conduct required of league and club leadership.
“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,” Scheer said. “I’m committed to helping drive the Union back to the standard our supporters, organization, and community expect.”
The Union’s statement made no mention of Tanner’s future with the club.
“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,” Sugarman said.
