What's Happening?
The Chicago Stars have announced the appointment of Martin Sjögren as their new head coach, with his tenure set to begin in January. Sjögren, who has previously coached the Norwegian national team and Swedish club Hammarby, will complete the current season in Sweden before transitioning to his new role in the National Women’s Soccer League (NWSL). The decision to hire Sjögren was part of a comprehensive search process that involved over 60 candidates. Sjögren will be joined by Anders Jacobson as his first assistant, with interim coach Ella Masar continuing in an assistant role. The Stars are currently struggling in the league, sitting 13th out of 14 teams, and Sjögren's appointment is seen as a strategic move to revitalize the team.
Why It's Important?
The hiring of Martin Sjögren is significant for the Chicago Stars as it represents a strategic effort to improve their standing in the NWSL. Sjögren brings a wealth of experience from his time coaching in Sweden and Norway, including leading Norway to the quarterfinals of the 2019 World Cup. His European coaching style, which emphasizes possession and high pressing, could bring a new dynamic to the team. This move is also indicative of the NWSL's growing appeal to international coaching talent, highlighting the league's competitive nature and the increasing globalization of women's soccer. The Stars' management is optimistic that Sjögren's leadership will help build a strong foundation for long-term success.
What's Next?
Martin Sjögren will join the Chicago Stars in January after completing his commitments with Hammarby. In the interim, Anders Jacobson will assume the role of interim coach, working alongside Ella Masar to begin implementing Sjögren's strategies. The team will focus on integrating a European style of play, aiming to improve their league position. The Stars' management is committed to a long-term development plan, and fans can expect gradual changes as the new coaching team works to enhance the team's performance. The upcoming months will be crucial for setting the groundwork for Sjögren's vision and strategy.