Landon Donovan named interim head coach of San Diego Wave

Landon Donovan is back in action, but this time in the NWSL.

The San Diego Wave named Donovan their interim head coach for the remainder of the 2024 season. Donovan takes over for former interim head coach Paul Buckle.

Donovan, a San Diego local, was formerly the Executive Vice President of Soccer Operations for the San Diego Loyal, following three years as the first-ever head coach for the USL club. He led the Loyal to three-straight playoff appearances during his time as head coach (2021-23).

Donovan registered a 39-17-29 record as Loyal head coach.

“First off, we want to thank Paul for his professionalism and honoring his commitment to see us through this summer window,” said San Diego Wave FC Sporting Director and General Manager Camille Ashton.

“We are thrilled to have Landon join the club and lead the team for the remainder of the season, including the first-ever Concacaf W Champions Cup. Landon’s level of knowledge, understanding, and experience as both a player and a coach, provides us with a leader that can help guide this club to where we want to be – in a playoff position and competing for a Championship. His passion for this city and growing the game, along with having a player-first mentality, make him a natural fit for this club.” 

A 20-year professional playing career, Donovan won six MLS Cups, one U.S. Open Cup, and two MLS Supporters’ Shields. He was named to the MLS Best XI on six occasions, won the league MVP Award once, and won the Golden Boot once.

He is the only American player in U.S. men’s national team history to register 50 goals and 50 assists. Donovan’s 157 USMNT caps are second-most all-time in program history. 

The Wave are currently 10th in the NWSL standings with 15 points earned through 16 matches. They begin group stage play in the CONCACAF W Champions Cup on Tuesday against Colombian side Santa Fe.

Source link : https://sbisoccer.com/2024/08/landon-donovan-named-interim-head-coach-of-san-diego-wave

Author : Larry Henry Jr

Publish date : 2024-08-17 13:06:18

Copyright for syndicated content belongs to the linked Source.