ORLANDO, Fla. — The search for the next Orlando City head coach is on. A source told me the club is interviewing candidates throughout the week. Bobby Murphy is currently serving as the team’s interim head coach, but he is not expected to be in the running for the full-time position.
Orlando City president Phil Rawlins said he already has a short list and recently laid out a list of qualifications the team is looking for in their next head coach: familiarity with American/MLS soccer, a tradition of winning and someone who will buy into the Orlando City philosophy.
This is my short list:
1.
– I doubt the former USMNT manager is going to leave France and a possible opportunity for a top European gig to head back to MLS, but why not shoot for the stars. Phil Rawlins and company should at least reach out to see if Bradley is interested in returning stateside.
2.
– He seems to be the hot name amongst Orlando City supporters. He won an MLS Cup with Real Salt Lake and definitely understands the difficulties of an expansion franchise. If Orlando City goes this route, hopefully Kreis has learned from his mistakes with NYCFC last year. I personally think Jason has his sights set on the Seattle job.
3.
– He wouldn’t be a splashy hire, but how many fans go to MLS matches for the coach. He’s currently an assistant for the New York Red Bulls who are the reigning Supporters Shield winners. As a head coach, Hamlett took Chicago to the conference finals in back-to-back years (2008, 2009).
4.
– He would fit the splashy hire category. Ramos currently serves as the head coach of the US U-20 team and is also an assistant under Jurgen Klinsmann.
5.
– He certainly understands the Orlando City philosophy. O’Connor played for the Lions in their USL days and has had much success with the former affiliate of the Lions, Louisville City. Many have thrown Anthony Pulis name around, but I’ll take the man with a little more experience. That is unless son Anthony can get father Tony to join his staff.
Who do you think should be the next coach? Leave your thoughts in the comments section.
Cox Media Group
