Union hires Bradley Carnell as new head coach

For the first time in 11 years, the Philadelphia Union will have a new head coach on the sidelines.

Bradley Carnell has been named the Union’s new head coach heading into the 2025 MLS season, the club announced. Carnell most recently served as head coach of the St. Louis CITY SC in 2023-24 and brings 10 years of professional coaching experience to the table.

Bradley has the qualities we were looking for in a manager and the experience needed as we commit to returning to our identity as a team,” said Philadelphia Union sporting director Ernst Tanner. “With knowledge of both MLS and international markets, he is tactically astute and in line with our sporting strategy. His approach emphasizes a high-pressing style of play while organizing a structured defence. In addition, he shares the club’s vision to develop players. We are convinced , that he will bring a clear sports philosophy that will lift the team and deliver a competitive season. We look forward to welcoming him to Philadelphia.”

The 47-year-old Carnell was St. Louis CITY SC’s interim head coach and recorded a 22-15-25 in regular season play. St. Louis led the Western Conference regular season standings in 2023.

Prior to his move to Missouri, Carnell served as assistant manager and interim head coach of the New York Red Bulls from March 2017-January 2022. He helped guide the Red Bulls to the 2018 Supporters’ Shield.

As a player, Carnell earned 42 caps with the South African men’s national team, including at the 2002 FIFA World Cup.

The Union is coming off a disappointing 2024 season that saw longtime head coach Jim Curtin fired last fall. Philadelphia failed to reach the MLS Cup playoffs