Major League Soccer has changed drastically in the last twelve months, with new announcements regarding future teams and other stories on staffing changes. The most recent information coming from MLS is that the Chicago Fire FC have hired their new head coach. Raphael Wicky was retained on Friday, December 27, 2019, and brings significant experience to the team. He has twenty-seven years in professional soccer, playing as an athlete, and coaching the younger generations. Raphael has coached in Switzerland, Germany, Spain, and the United States. Wicky is the ninth official coach for CFFC, which comes after a decade of working with Chivas USA.
Wicky was asked to speak with reporters on his new employment, where he expressed how honored he is to become the head coach for Chicago Fire FC. This 42 years of age coach noted that this position has an incredible degree of responsibility, with him promising that he will do everything in his power to acquire a championship going forward. Raphael also noted that his vision for the team follows suit with the team owners, with this premiere coach hoping to accomplish a new era for the organization.
Raphael’s History
Raphael Wicky didn’t have any issues transitioning from player to coach, where he spent a significant period in the European Union. He became highly respected for his efforts with youth players, which is how this head coach met the owners of Chicago Fire FC. The efforts displayed when coaching Serviette and Basel FC were formidable, allowing for both teams to enter playoff contention. His time with younger players including training individuals in the Under-18, Under-19 and Under-21 Leagues. Eventually, he would coach in the UEFA Champions League and Premier League, creating teams that defeated Manchester City and United. Additional champion victories include the FIFA Under-17s World Cup and 2nd in CONCACAF. Acquiring the MLS Playoff Championship would make him an international-winning coach.
2020 MLS Schedule Released
Raphael Wicky takes this coaching position on the same day that the 2020 MLS Schedule was released publicly. Subsequently, he can now adjust his training strategies for the upcoming timeframe. It was revealed that February 29, 2020, will mark the first matchup. This will be the 25th Season Opener for Major League Soccer, which will be held at the AT&T Arena. Nashville SC and Inter Miami CF will battle it out in this year’s first bout, setting the pace for months to come. The 25th season is slated to be the most fierce year in Major League Soccer to date. Each time will experience 34 matchups before the playoff season begins in early September.
