Philadelphia Union’s Manager Honored
On Thursday, the Philadelphia Union’s manager Bradley Carnell was honored with the prestigious 2025 Sigi Schmid MLS Coach of the Year award, as announced by the league. Carnell’s leadership propelled the Union to capture this season’s Supporters Shield, and he garnered 37.78% of the weighted votes to secure the title, surpassing competitors like Jesper Sorensen of the Vancouver Whitecaps, who achieved 26.53%, and Mikey Varas of San Diego FC, with 19.82%.
Record Performance and Team Success
This notable recognition reflects Carnell’s success in boosting the team’s performance, leading to a remarkable 29-point increase from the previous year—a record high that left the Chicago Fire FC (with a 23-point increase) trailing behind. In a candid conversation with ESPN, Carnell expressed his joy, emphasizing his gratitude not only for the accolade but also for the dedication of his players and the club as a whole. He underscored that a strong team environment fosters success, stating:
“When it clicks, it becomes a really good, dominant force.”
Coaching Journey and Philosophy
Carnell, nicknamed “Pit Bull” during his playing tenure with VfB Stuttgart, embarked on his coaching journey in 2017 as an assistant for the New York Red Bulls under Jesse Marsch, briefly taking over the head coaching duties in 2020. His coaching philosophy is heavily influenced by Marsch and Ralf Rangnick, with whom he has maintained a close relationship. Upon receiving news of his award, Carnell reached out to Marsch, expressing his gratitude and acknowledging his mentor’s impact on his career.
Challenges and Revitalization
In 2023, Carnell assumed the role of the inaugural manager for St. Louis City SC, surprisingly leading the franchise to a commendable first-place rank in the Western Conference, only to be relieved of his duties in July 2024 due to a lackluster second season. Reflecting on this chapter, Carnell described his departure as still a “sensitive subject,” citing a divergence in visions for the club’s future.
After joining the Union at the beginning of the year, Carnell revitalized the team’s high-pressing strategy reminiscent of their past triumphs. The Union led the league in winning back possession in both the attacking and middle thirds while also registering the fewest goals against, with just 35 conceded throughout the season. Despite working with a budget of $13.43 million—the lowest in the MLS—Carnell effectively maximized the team’s potential. His philosophy revolves around courage and teamwork, focusing on creating a cohesive system of play that is both effective and financially responsible.
Looking Ahead
As the league progresses, Philadelphia remains competitive in the MLS Cup playoffs after their first-round victory against the Chicago Fire, gearing up to face either Charlotte FC or New York City in the Eastern Conference semifinals.
