Frank Lampard & Dean Smith Finalists For MLS’ Charlotte FC Coaching Job

MLS club Charlotte FC is actively looking for a new coach. It is believed that the head coach position will be filled by December before the upcoming MLS campaign. As per the latest reports, the finalists for the position include Frank Lampard and Dean Smith. It seems the club is seeking candidates who have coached major soccer clubs before.

Charlotte had parted ways with previous coach Christian Lattanzio after last season in a surprising decision. Despite lacking major experience at the top level, Lattanzio helped them reach their first-ever playoffs where they faced defeat to New York Red Bulls. Perhaps, the top brass believes a new manager will get more out of the squad.

Charlotte FC looks to strike gold by eyeing a major move for Frank Lampard or Dean Smith

As per the Athletic, the vastly experienced Dean Smith and Frank Lampard are in contention to become the next manager of the club. Lampard also has MLS experience during his time with NYCFC. After helping Chelsea see out the 22/23 season, the English midfielder has not taken up a new job. Yet he has proven his ability to work without superstars and limited resources when he led Chelsea to a 4th placed finish with a transfer ban. It could be this adaptability that interests Charlotte FC.

Dean Smith enjoyed great success with Aston Villa, where he played attacking and entertaining soccer with young stars. While his stints with Norwich City and Leicester were not as memorable, he is more than capable of managing teams without the biggest financial backing.

The fact that Lampard and Dean Smith are interested in taking the job highlights the development of the MLS. Former Barcelona manager Tata Martino is also in charge of Inter Miami. Also, even young promising players like Riqui Puig and Thiago Almada have chosen MLS despite having the quality to play anywhere in Europe. It seems people are viewing MLS as a serious competition and this only bodes well for the development of soccer in the country.

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While Charlotte FC fans will be anxiously waiting to know about their new coach, Christian Lattanzio would be feeling hard done. Let’s dive deeper.

What went wrong for Christian Lattanzio?

Christian Lattanzio managed the team in 63 games with a 22-24-17 record and also architected their first playoff appearance. A decent record by all means but the management’s decision was long-decided.

As per reports, Lattanzio frequently shifted players from their usual positions and moved away from the 4-4-2 formation that got him the job in the first place. This led to tensions between the Italian and the management and the loss against the Red Bulls proved to be the breaking point. Hence, the Italian was relieved of his duties.

Lattanzio joins a pool with names including Adrian Heath, Robin, Fraser, and Ezra Hendrickson who have been relieved of their duties by their clubs in the 2023 season.

Who will emerge as the new Charlotte FC head coach? Let us know in the comments below.

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