Philadelphia Union name Bradley Carnell head coach

The Philadelphia Union have named Bradley Carnell their next head coach, the club announced Thursday.

Carnell arrives with 10 years of professional coaching experience, most recently leading St. Louis CITY SC from their historic 2023 expansion season through last July. He’s also served as interim head coach and assistant manager for the New York Red Bulls.

The 47-year-old South Africa native replaces Jim Curtin, the two-time Sigi Schmid MLS Coach of the Year who was dismissed in November after a decade in charge of the Union.

“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,” said sporting director Ernst Tanner. “With knowledge of both MLS and international markets, he is tactically astute and aligned with our sporting strategy.

“His approach emphasizes a high-press style of play while organizing a structured defense. Additionally, he shares the club’s vision for developing players. We are confident he will bring a clear sporting philosophy that elevates the team and delivers a competitive season. We look forward to welcoming him to Philadelphia.”