LAFC’s Steve Cherundolo to Exit: What This Means for the Future of the Club
Los Angeles FC head coach Steve Cherundolo will depart the club at the end of the 2025 MLS season, the organization announced Tuesday. The 45-year-old manager, who led LAFC to its first MLS Cup in 2022, cited personal reasons and a desire for new challenges as key factors in his decision. This unexpected move leaves the Black and Gold facing critical questions about leadership continuity and strategic direction as they prepare for a major transition.
A Stellar Tenure Cut Short
Since taking the helm in 2022, Cherundolo has compiled an impressive 58-34-28 record across all competitions. Under his guidance, LAFC:
- Won the 2022 MLS Cup and Supporters’ Shield
- Reached the 2023 CONCACAF Champions League final
- Maintained a 1.82 points-per-game average (3rd highest among active MLS coaches)
“Steve brought a championship mentality from day one,” said LAFC co-president Larry Freedman. “His ability to develop young talent while integrating star players like Carlos Vela and Denis Bouanga created a model other clubs emulate.”
Why Now? The Timing of Cherundolo’s Departure
The announcement comes at a pivotal moment for LAFC, who currently sit second in the Western Conference. Sports management professor Dr. Ellen Carter of USC suggests the timing reflects broader trends: “We’re seeing more top MLS coaches make strategic career moves after achieving domestic success. The league’s growth creates opportunities abroad, and five-year tenures are becoming rare.”
Cherundolo’s contract runs through December 2025, giving the club 18 months to identify a successor. This extended transition period contrasts with abrupt coaching changes that have disrupted other MLS clubs in recent seasons.
Potential Candidates to Replace Cherundolo
Early speculation about replacements includes:
- Domestic options: Current assistants Ante Razov and Oka Nikolov, or Nashville SC’s Gary Smith
- International candidates: Former Barcelona B manager GarcÃa Pimienta or ex-Wolfsburg coach Mark van Bommel
- Wild cards: USMNT assistant B.J. Callaghan or Angel City FC’s Becki Tweed (though no MLS club has hired a female head coach)
“LAFC will likely seek someone who understands the club’s data-driven approach,” said MLS analyst Taylor Twellman. “Their next coach must balance immediate results with developing the academy pipeline.”
Impact on Players and Tactical Philosophy
Cherundolo’s possession-based 4-3-3 system has become synonymous with LAFC’s identity. Key players face uncertainty:
- Captain Carlos Vela’s contract expires in 2024
- DP Denis Bouanga has attracted European interest
- Homegrown talent Nathan Ordaz may see reduced minutes under a new regime
Midfielder Ilie Sánchez told reporters: “Steve built something special here. Change is part of football, but we’ll miss his daily intensity and tactical clarity.”
Front Office Challenges and Fan Reactions
The coaching search coincides with broader organizational shifts:
- New training facility opening in 2026
- Expanded scouting network in South America
- Ongoing negotiations for a third designated player
Supporters groups expressed mixed reactions. “Grateful for the trophies, but nervous about what comes next,” said Black Army 1850 member Javier Mendoza. “We don’t want to become a revolving door club like some others in the league.”
The Road Ahead for LAFC
General manager Will Kuntz faces pressure to maintain the club’s elite status. Historical data shows:
| MLS Club | Coach Departure Year | Next Season Finish |
|---|---|---|
| Seattle Sounders (Sigi Schmid) | 2016 | 2nd in West |
| Toronto FC (Greg Vanney) | 2020 | 13th in East |
As the search begins, all eyes will be on whether LAFC can buck the trend of post-succession struggles. The club’s ability to attract top talent and maintain its distinctive style will determine if this transition marks a new chapter or the end of a golden era.
For fans wanting to voice their opinions on the coaching search, LAFC will host a town hall meeting June 15 at the Banc of California Stadium. Registration opens next week on the club’s official website.
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