LAFC has found their new head coach.
Almost two months after parting ways with Bob Bradley, LAFC has found the man to replace him, and it is a name that most familiar with fans of US Soccer, as well as soccer fans in Germany. LAFC on Monday officially appointed Steve Cherundolo as head coach.
“I am extremely excited to introduce Steve as our next head coach,” LAFC Co-President & General Manager John Thorrington said. “We know what works for LAFC and also what works in MLS, and Steve has a unique blend of international and domestic experience at the highest levels that matches those needs.”
Cherundolo is best remembered for his playing career at both the club and national team level. Cherundolo spent his entire professional career in Germany playing for Hannover 96. Cherundolo established himself as a starter at the right back position and was instrumental in the club gaining promotion to the Bundesliga during the 2001-2002 season and ended up playing 15 seasons. However, it was his stint with the United States national team that Cherundolo is best remembered for. Cherundolo earned 87 caps for the USMNT from 1999 until 2002, becoming a staple for the national team at the right back spot, just as he did with Hannover. Cherundolo played in two World Cups and two CONCACAF Gold Cups.
“I am ecstatic to be named the head coach of LAFC,” Cherundolo said. “Having been a part of the Club for the past year, I was able to see firsthand that the fans, city, and organization are all extraordinary. Furthering the Club’s endeavors on and off the field are my main focus and I can’t wait to get started.”
After the end of his playing career in 2014, Cherundolo quickly transitioned into coaching. Cherundolo spent four years as an assistant for Hannover and also coached its youth squads. Cherundolo also had assistant coaching stints with VFB Stuttgart, the USMNT and even Germany’s U-15 team. Cherundolo also possesses the highly prestigious UEFA “A” coaching license. Most recently, Cherundolo coached Las Vegas Lights, who are affiliated with LAFC, with his most notable work being the development of Mamadou Fall, who emerged as a key contributor for LAFC late int he season.
