Philadelphia Union
Historic Losing Start Costs Carnell His Job; Jon Scheer Promoted to Sporting Director
The Union’s response to their historically poor first half of the 2026 season came around 3 PM on Wednesday, as the club announced that Bradley Carnell was out as Union head coach and Interim Sporting Director Jon Scheer will transition to a permanent role as Sporting Director.
Carnell, the reigning MLS Coach of the Year, departs the club after one win in 15 matches to open the 2026 season. While the Union look for their next coach, Union II head coach and Southampton, PA native Ryan Richter will act as the interim.
Carnell made a statement about his dismissal. “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,” said Carnell. “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 search for the Union’s fifth head coach will be led by Scheer. Scheer enters a full-time Sporting Director role for the first time in his career. Formerly the Union’s Director of Academy and Professional Development, the Union will promote Scheer to the club’s leader of player recruitment and roster management, staying internal with a hire that knows the club’s identity.
“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 in a statement. “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.”
This announcement comes only days before June 1st, the earliest possible date that former Sporting Director Ernst Tanner could return from his suspension due to misconduct, but Scheer taking Tanner’s role indicates that Tanner may not return to the club as Sporting Director.
Tomorrow Union Principal Owner Jay Sugarman and Jon Scheer are scheduled to hold a press conference. The Union have 56 days to prepare for their next match, which isn’t until July 25th at home against the Red Bulls.
