Coaching Changes in MLS: A Detailed Overview

**Status: Official**
**Why he was hired:** Ronny Delia was dismissed following a disappointing 2025 season. While Martino may not be the most glamorous choice, he is undoubtedly a wise one. He guided Atlanta United to immediate success upon his appointment in 2016, and many fans were reluctant to see him leave two years later. Martino remains a beloved figure among Atlanta supporters and is expected to bring stability back to the Mercedes-Benz Stadium.

**Tactical identity:** Martino’s approach is characterized as flexible yet attacking. His teams typically employ high pressing and prioritize possession after regaining the ball. His philosophy leans towards control rather than chaos, favoring a style reminiscent of Pep Guardiola over Jurgen Klopp’s famous Gegenpress. He encourages creativity from his players, which previously showcased talents like Miguel Almiron.

**Why it makes sense:** Martino’s familiarity with the club and his track record of results make this decision logical. While he may not be a tactical innovator, he understands the Atlanta culture, has previously led the team to MLS Cup success, and will likely enhance the team’s discipline. Immediate victories may not be expected, but significant losing streaks are unlikely.

**Why it might not work:** Although Martino excelled in his first tenure at Atlanta United, the MLS landscape has shifted since his departure in 2018. His recent managerial record has been inconsistent, with challenges faced while coaching Mexico and Inter Miami. While there is excitement over his return, innovative strategies might be more beneficial in this evolved league.

**Grade:** B+

**Status: Official**
**Why he was hired:** Sandro Schwarz was removed from his position after failing to secure a playoff berth. The Red Bulls sought new ideas, and Bradley, recognized as a promising young talent in American soccer, was selected as head coach. His ties to the club, stemming from his time as a midfielder, coupled with mentorship from notable figures like his father, Bob, and Jesse Marsch, enhance his credentials.

**Tactical identity:** Bradley has limited experience as a first-team coach, having only transitioned to this role six months ago. He initially embraced the Red Bull philosophy of high pressing and dynamic football, but has since shown adaptability, which was a factor in his hiring. Leading Red Bulls II, he achieved the highest-scoring record in the MLS Next Pro playoffs, indicating potential for innovation.

**Why it makes sense:** Bradley embodies the Red Bull ethos, aiming to combine winning with attractive play. His personal connection to the club and determination are assets that can foster competitiveness. His experience in both American and European soccer should be advantageous.

**Why it might not work:** At 38, Bradley’s lack of high-level management experience poses a risk. The Red Bulls are in need of a reset following their first playoff miss in 15 years, and this appointment may be premature, regardless of his potential.

**Grade:** A-

**Status: Official**
**Why he was hired:** LAFC made a conservative choice in promoting Dos Santos from assistant to head coach after Steve Cherundolo’s departure. Dos Santos has ample experience, previously serving as an MLS head coach, and is expected to maintain continuity for a team that narrowly missed out on the MLS Cup.

**Tactical identity:** Dos Santos typically employs a possession-based 4-3-3 formation, marking a shift from Cherundolo’s more flexible approach. Cherundolo’s system thrived on counterattacks, while Dos Santos has traditionally favored a more methodical style with a stronger emphasis on wide play.

**Why it makes sense:** This selection is a secure choice, common among successful teams. Dos Santos has been entrenched in the team’s dynamics since 2022, fostering relationships with players and gaining insight into the squad’s capabilities.

**Why it might not work:** His head coaching record remains checkered; he only made the playoffs once with Vancouver. Despite working with limited resources, others have been more successful under similar constraints. His reliability as a head coach is still unproven.

**Grade:** B-

**Status: Official**
**Why he was hired:** St. Louis CITY SC urgently needs a complete overhaul after Olof Mellberg’s tumultuous tenure, which ended prematurely. Following a lackluster interim period under David Critchley, the club has appointed Damet, who previously worked as an assistant under prominent coaches like Wilfried Nancy.

**Tactical identity:** Damet’s tactical approach is currently unclear. His influences have emphasized attack-minded football, and during his brief interim period at FC Cincinnati, he focused on possession. However, it remains uncertain whether he can implement similar strategies now.

**Why it makes sense:** With little to lose, St. Louis is embracing a project-oriented philosophy after finishing 15th in the West. The team is in a rebuilding phase, and Damet’s innovative approach may yield positive results.

**Why it might not work:** Stability is essential; the team is struggling, and they may require a more seasoned manager to navigate the challenges ahead. Transitioning from a chaotic past to a competitive future will not be easy, and a more experienced leader could have been a wiser choice.

**Grade:** C

**Status: Official**
**Why he was hired:** The Colorado Rapids faced a dilemma regarding Chris Armas’ contract expiration. After a disappointing finish, they opted for a new direction, appointing Wells, a young coach with experience under various successful managers in Europe.

**Tactical identity:** The specifics of Wells’ tactical approach are still to be determined. He has worked under managers with contrasting styles, bringing potential versatility to his coaching. Colorado’s squad is not suited for a defensive style, suggesting a more attacking philosophy is likely.

**Why it makes sense:** This decision aligns well with Colorado’s needs, as they seek a clear tactical direction. Wells, who has effectively executed tactical plans under seasoned coaches, may rally the team together for improved performance.

**Why it might not work:** Inexperience could be a significant factor; Wells has never been a head coach and lacks familiarity with MLS. Even promising coaches can falter when faced with the realities of league competition.

**Grade:** B

**Status: Official**
**Why he was hired:** Following the departure of Wilfried Nancy, who was a standout coach in MLS, the Crew sought a fresh perspective. Rydstrom, a former defensive midfielder with a successful managerial record in Sweden, offers a unique approach to coaching.

**Tactical identity:** Rydstrom’s style, described as “Relationism,” employs a flexible 4-2-3-1 formation, focusing on creating numerical advantages and dominating possession. However, his strategy may lack the pace expected by fans.

**Why it makes sense:** The Crew are looking for a tactical shift, especially after Nancy’s impactful tenure. Rydstrom’s strategic mindset could reshape the team’s identity and drive them toward success in the Eastern Conference.

**Why it might not work:** Potential inflexibility in tactics may hinder adaptability. Rydstrom’s previous team struggled in running statistics, and his lack of a backup strategy could be problematic. Additionally, following in Nancy’s footsteps presents a formidable challenge.

**Grade:** B+

**Status: Official**
**Why he was hired:** Sporting Kansas City had been without a head coach following Peter Vermes’ exit. The club appointed Wicky, a seasoned coach with a successful track record in Europe and MLS, to lead the rebuilding process of a struggling team.

**Tactical identity:** Wicky favors a traditional approach, often utilizing a 4-4-2 diamond formation. His style encourages a high defensive line and supports a ball-playing goalkeeper. He has also experimented with various formations, including a 3-4-3.

**Why it makes sense:** Sporting Kansas City is in a rebuilding phase, and Wicky’s prior success and experience in MLS offer a foundation for potential improvement. Bringing in a tactical mind could help realign the team toward competitive success.

**Why it might not work:** Wicky’s tactical approach may feel outdated, and it’s unclear if the current squad aligns with his vision. His past tenure in MLS raised concerns, as he struggled to secure wins. However, his previous experience might mitigate those issues.