The Philadelphia Union have officially named Bradley Carnell as their new head coach, marking a significant leadership change for the Major League Soccer team.
The announcement came last Thursday, just two months after the club parted ways with former head coach Jim Curtin, who had led the team for over 11 seasons. Carnell, who replaces Curtin as the fourth head coach in franchise history, is expected to revitalize the Union after they failed to make the MLS Cup playoffs for the first time since 2017.
At 47 years old, Carnell arrives with extensive coaching experience, most recently serving as the inaugural head coach for St. Louis CITY SC. Under his guidance during the 2023 season, St. Louis made history as the first expansion team to win the Western Conference regular season title, finishing with 17 victories. His overall record with the team was 22 wins, 15 losses, and 25 draws across 62 regular-season matches.
After the Union's disappointing performance last season, where they secured only nine wins and finished 12th in the Eastern Conference, Carnell's appointment suggests a strong intent by the club to regain its competitive edge. Sporting director Ernst Tanner expressed confidence in Carnell's capabilities, stating, "Bradley has the attributes we were looking for in a manager and the experience needed as we commit to getting back to our identity as a team. With knowledge of both MLS and international markets, he is tactically astute and aligned with our sporting strategy."
Highlighting Carnell's approach, Tanner noted the emphasis on high-pressing style and structured defense, traits he believes will help the team as they rebuild. "His approach emphasizes a high-press style of play... we are confident he will bring a clear sporting philosophy," Tanner added.
Carnell expressed his honor at being named head coach, stating, "I’m honored to be named head coach of the Philadelphia Union, and I would like to thank the Union ownership group and Ernst Tanner for their trust in me. Philadelphia is an amazing city, built on communities of hardworking and passionate people who truly love their soccer."
The former defender, who previously played professionally in Germany and represented South Africa at the 2002 FIFA World Cup, began his coaching career at the University of Johannesburg before serving various roles including interim manager with the New York Red Bulls and assistant for Canada’s men’s national team.
Carnell's transition to Philadelphia indicates not just fresh leadership but also a commitment to addressing the Union’s recent struggles. The club's core roster, including key veterans like goalkeeper Andre Blake and midfielder Dániel Gazdag, will be expected to adapt to the system Carnell installs as they aim for improvement this upcoming season.
The outlook for the Union includes not only the expectation of returning to playoff contention but also the development of younger talent within the squad, as indicated by Tanner's comments on shared visions for player development.
The Philadelphia Union, founded in 2008, will look to leverage Carnell’s experience and knowledge gained through previous coaching roles to heal from the tumult of the last season and create a more consistent and successful campaign moving forward. The club and its supporters eagerly anticipate the changes Carnell will bring to the pitch.
Carnell joins notable predecessors Peter Nowak, John Hackworth, and Jim Curtin as managers who have guided the Union over its history. The fan base, known for its passion and dedication, hopes this appointment will mark the beginning of a new chapter filled with success and achievement on the field.