Colorado Rapids Appoint Matt Wells as New Head Coach

The Colorado Rapids have announced the hiring of Matt Wells, formerly an assistant coach at Tottenham Hotspur, as their new head coach, succeeding Chris Armas. This decision comes nearly two months after the club parted ways with Armas, who led the team for two seasons.

Rapids president Pádraig Smith expressed confidence in Wells, stating, “Matt brings extensive experience from the Champions League, Europa League, and Premier League. His proven commitment to player development and a clear, exciting tactical identity will empower our players to strive for trophies. His successful track record and ambitions align with our long-term vision for the club, and we are eager to elevate our team to championship contention under his leadership.”

At 37 years old, Wells spent over two seasons on the coaching staff at Tottenham, where he also developed players in the academy system.

“I am a highly ambitious individual who has been fortunate to work alongside elite players and managers for the past seven years, and I am thrilled to bring my experience and winning mentality to this organization,” Wells stated.

Wells highlighted the alignment of his ambitions with those of the Rapids: “From the very outset of our discussions, it was clear that the club shared my vision to create something special and compete for the highest honors. It was a difficult decision to leave a team involved in Champions League football, but the people and project at Colorado made this choice clear for me.”

This past season, the Rapids finished with a record of 11 wins, 15 losses, and 8 draws, missing out on a place in the MLS Cup playoffs.

Tottenham head coach Thomas Frank expressed his support for Wells, stating, “It’s a great opportunity for him. I believe he is a very talented coach with the potential to succeed as a head coach. It’s a different experience being in charge, but I am confident he possesses the necessary skills to excel.

Frank also noted that with Wells’ departure, others on the coaching staff, including Cameron Campbell, Justin Cochrane, and Andreas Georgson, would need to step up and take on more responsibilities. “Justin has already taken on significant responsibilities, as has Andreas. With Wells leaving, there will be a bit more to cover, but I have faith in their capabilities. In the past, we only had one assistant, so I am confident we will manage well.”

This report includes contributions from ESPN’s James Olley.