This morning, an in-person meeting took place between Anthony Precourt, Founder, Majority Owner, and CEO of Austin FC, alongside Sporting Director Rodolfo Borrell and Head Coach Josh Wolff. Following this meeting, Austin FC has officially announced the immediate departure of Head Coach Josh Wolff.
“We are grateful to Josh for his contributions to the growth and development of our Club as the first manager in our history. His efforts will always be valued,” remarked Precourt. “After two consecutive seasons without making the playoffs, it’s clear that a fresh start is necessary for the upcoming season under a new head coach.”
Rodolfo Borrell was appointed as the Club’s Sporting Director in June 2023. He brings with him 28 years of experience from some of the most esteemed soccer clubs globally, such as Barcelona, Liverpool, and Manchester City. Borrell is responsible for overseeing the Austin FC First Team, Austin FC II, and the Austin FC Academy.
“As an organization, we aim to be one of the top-performing clubs in MLS on a yearly basis,” Borrell stated. “To achieve this, we must progress, and we will promptly begin our search for a new manager who can help us turn our ambitions into consistent, high-level performances.”
Wolff was appointed as the first manager in the history of the Club on July 23, 2019. In 2022, during the Club’s second season, he led the team to a remarkable second-place finish in the Western Conference with a record of 16 wins, 8 draws, and 10 losses, culminating in playoff victories at home against Real Salt Lake and FC Dallas, marking the team’s first appearance in the Western Conference Final. However, after failing to qualify for the playoffs in 2021, 2023, and 2024, Wolff’s time with Austin FC concludes with an overall record of 45 wins, 30 draws, and 60 losses in MLS regular season matches over four years.
An interim manager will be appointed as head coach for the Club’s final regular season match of 2024, and this announcement will be made in due time.
Tomorrow, Austin FC Sporting Director Rodolfo Borrell will hold a media briefing at 2:30 p.m. CT at St. David’s Performance Center. Members of the media wishing to attend must RSVP to communications@austinfc.com.
The Verde & Black will conclude the 2024 regular season at home against the Colorado Rapids at Q2 Stadium on Saturday, October 19, with kickoff set for 8:00 p.m. CT.
Austin FC Parts Ways with Head Coach Josh Wolff After Season of Missed Playoffs
Overview of the Decision
Austin FC has officially parted ways with head coach Josh Wolff, marking a significant shift for the club after a disappointing season that saw them miss the playoffs. The announcement was made on October 6, 2024, signaling a new direction for the team as they look to rebuild and enhance their competitive stature in Major League Soccer (MLS).
Background: Josh Wolff’s Tenure
Wolff took the reins as head coach of Austin FC ahead of the 2021 season, bringing with him a wealth of experience from both his playing and coaching careers. Under his leadership, the team experienced a mix of successes and challenges:
- 2021 Season: Austin FC had a rocky debut season, finishing near the bottom of the Western Conference.
- 2022 Season: The club made strides, qualifying for the playoffs for the first time and showing promise in the postseason.
- 2023 Season: A regression in form saw the team miss the playoffs, leading to increased scrutiny of Wolff’s tactics and decisions.
Reasons Behind the Decision
The decision to part ways with Wolff comes following a season characterized by:
- Inconsistent Performance: Austin FC struggled with consistency, failing to secure key victories in crucial matches.
- Defensive Vulnerabilities: The team conceded too many goals, often undermining their offensive efforts.
- Fan Expectations: With high hopes following the playoff appearance in 2022, the fan base became increasingly frustrated with the team’s lack of progress.
Impact on the Team
Wolff’s departure raises several questions about the future of Austin FC. Here are some potential impacts:
- New Coaching Search: The club will need to identify a new head coach who can bring fresh ideas and strategies to improve team performance.
- Player Dynamics: A change in coaching staff often leads to shifts in player roles and tactics, which could impact player morale and performance.
- Fan Engagement: The club may need to work harder to rebuild trust and enthusiasm among its supporters, who are keen for success on the pitch.
Potential Candidates for Head Coach
In light of Wolff’s departure, several names are being floated as potential successors:
| Candidate | Current Role | Notable Achievements |
|---|---|---|
| Guillermo Barros Schelotto | Former LA Galaxy Coach | Led the Galaxy to the playoffs; experience in MLS. |
| Jason Kreis | Current Head Coach, USL Championship | MLS Cup winner; has a successful track record in American soccer. |
| Roberto Martinez | Former Belgium National Team Coach | Led Belgium to a third-place finish in the 2018 World Cup. |
Looking Ahead: The Path to Recovery
As Austin FC embarks on this new chapter, several strategies could be employed to ensure a successful transition:
1. Focus on Scouting and Recruitment
The new coach will need to prioritize identifying and recruiting talent that fits their system. This includes:
- Scouting youth talent and potential trades.
- Building a balanced roster that addresses weaknesses observed under Wolff.
2. Implementing a Strong Tactical Framework
A clear tactical framework that emphasizes both offensive and defensive stability will be crucial. The new head coach should consider:
- Adopting a more adaptable style of play.
- Training players to execute tactical adjustments during matches.
3. Enhancing Player Development
Investing in player development can lead to long-term benefits. Strategies may include:
- Creating a robust academy system that nurtures young talent.
- Encouraging mentorship opportunities between experienced players and newcomers.
Community and Fan Engagement
Engaging with the community and building rapport with fans will be essential for Austin FC as they move forward. The club could consider:
- Hosting open training sessions and meet-and-greet events.
- Incorporating fan input into club decisions, fostering a sense of belonging.
Conclusion
The departure of Josh Wolff marks a pivotal moment for Austin FC. As the club seeks to recover from a season of disappointment, the upcoming months will be critical in shaping their future direction. With the right leadership and strategies, Austin FC can aspire to return to the competitive edge they showed in the 2022 season.
