One of the most recognizable faces in the Union organization appears to be on his way out.
According to Kevin Kinkead of CBS 3, Union CEO and operating partner Nick Sakiewicz will be relieved of his duties on Friday morning.
Sakiewicz confirmed to Comcast SportsNet's Amy Fadool late Thursday night that he is no longer with the organization.
The Philadelphia Inquirer reported that Jay Sugarman, the Union's chairman and owner, will attend a 9 a.m. meeting Friday with senior staff members and an official announcement could be made sometime later in the day.
“I enjoyed my time at the Philadelphia Union and I am proud of the team, the organization and the stadium that we built,” Sakiewicz told ESPN’s Jeff Carlisle Thursday night. “I wish the Union, Jay Sugarman and the entire organization the best of luck and continued success.”
Sakiewicz's departure comes just one day after the Union lost the U.S. Open Cup final in penalty kicks to Sporting Kansas City (see story).
It was the second consecutive year that the Union fell in the championship game of the competition on their home pitch, PPL Park, as they were beat by the Seattle Sounders, 3-1, in extra time last season.
Philadelphia Union
A former professional goalkeeper, Sakiewicz was instrumental in forming the Union as an MLS franchise. He's served as the team's public spokesman on a a variety of issues while Sugarman has mostly remained behind the scenes.
The Union, who are in their sixth season, are 9-15-7 this season with just three MLS games remaining. The last -- and only -- time they qualified for the postseason came back in 2011.