In a move that has sent ripples through Major League Soccer, Los Angeles FC (LAFC) head coach Steve Cherundolo has confirmed that he will step down from his role at the conclusion of the 2025 season. The announcement, which came as a surprise to many fans and analysts alike, marks the end of a significant chapter for the club and opens the door for a period of transition and speculation. While the decision is clearly planned and amicable, it raises immediate questions about the legacy Cherundolo leaves behind and the future direction of the Black and Gold.
As a veteran football analyst who has followed MLS closely for over a decade, I can tell you that this is more than just a routine coaching change. It represents a strategic pivot for a club that has rapidly established itself as a powerhouse in North American football. Let’s break down what this means for the team, the league, and what we can expect moving forward, all with an eye on the big picture for Baji Live readers who appreciate deep tactical insight.
The Cherundolo Legacy: From Captain to Cup Winner
A Journey Through the Ranks
Steve Cherundolo’s story is deeply intertwined with the fabric of American soccer. Before taking the helm at LAFC, he was a stalwart defender for the US Men’s National Team and a legend at Hannover 96 in the German Bundesliga. His transition into coaching was a natural progression, marked by a tactical acumen and calm demeanor that he honed over two decades on the pitch. When he took over LAFC in 2022, he inherited a talented squad but also the immense pressure of following the successful Bob Bradley.
Key Achievements Under His Tenure
Cherundolo’s time at LAFC has been nothing short of remarkable. In his first season, he guided the team to the 2022 MLS Cup, defeating the Philadelphia Union in a dramatic penalty shootout at home. This victory cemented his status as one of the top young coaches in the league. The following year, he led the club to the final of the Concacaf Champions League, a testament to their growing continental ambition. While the 2023 season ended in disappointment in the MLS Cup Final, Cherundolo’s ability to consistently navigate a deep playoff run and adapt his tactics against top-tier opponents has been his hallmark.
His coaching philosophy—a blend of high-pressing, possession-based attacking football with solid defensive organization—has become the identity of this LAFC side. He is known for his excellent man-management, particularly his ability to get the best out of global superstars like Carlos Vela and emerging talents like Denis Bouanga.
Why Now? Analyzing the Timing of the 2025 Departure
A Calculated Transition, Not a Crisis
The announcement is not a result of poor results or a falling out with the front office. Rather, it appears to be a carefully planned transition. By declaring his departure nearly 18 months in advance, Cherundolo and sporting director John Thorrington are giving the club ample time to conduct a proper search for his successor. This stability is rare in professional sports and speaks volumes about the professional relationship between the coach and the club management.
“This was a mutual decision made with a long-term view for both my family and the club,” said Cherundolo in a press release. “LAFC is in an excellent place, and I want to ensure that when I leave, the squad and the philosophy we’ve built are positioned for continued success.”
The Impact on the Current Squad
For the players, this news could either be a distraction or a motivator. Knowing that a highly respected figure is leaving at a set date can create a sense of urgency to send him off with more silverware. However, it also allows some players, particularly fringe squad members, to start looking ahead. The leadership group, featuring veterans like Ilie Sánchez and Ryan Hollingshead, will be crucial in maintaining focus. I would expect the team’s performance in the 2025 season to be driven by a strong emotional core, much like we saw with Sir Alex Ferguson’s final season at Manchester United, albeit on a much smaller scale.
Potential Successors and the Future of LAFC
The Coaching Carousel Begins
With Cherundolo‘s departure now a known quantity, speculation about his replacement will dominate MLS headlines for months. The LAFC job is one of the most attractive in the league. It comes with a massive budget, a world-class stadium, a passionate fanbase, and a state-of-the-art training facility.
Based on my analysis of typical MLS hiring patterns, we can expect a few distinct categories of candidates:
- The High-Profile Euro Candidate:LAFC has shown a willingness to attract talent from Europe. A coach with experience in a top European league who is looking for a new challenge could be a natural fit. Names like Raphael Wicky (former Chicago Fire and Basel coach) or Domènec Torrent (former New York City FC and Flamengo assistant) often get mentioned, but a younger, progressive coach from the Championship or a secondary European league might be the target.
- The MLS Insider:The league also values those who understand its unique travel demands, salary cap complexities, and roster rules. Candidates like Gonzalo Pineda (Atlanta United) or Luchi Gonzalez (San Jose Earthquakes) could be strong internal candidates who have both head coaching experience and a deep knowledge of the league’s talent pool.
- The Retired Star:LAFC, being in Los Angeles, often looks for a marquee name to bring additional star power. A former USMNT captain like Landon Donovan or Clint Dempsey could be an intriguing wildcard. While neither has extensive top-level coaching experience, their leadership and football IQ are unquestioned.
What the New Coach Must Inherit
Whoever takes over in 2026 will be stepping into a fantastic situation. The core of the squad is young and dynamic. However, they will also face immense pressure. The expectation is not just to compete for the MLS Cup, but to dominate the league and challenge for the Concacaf Champions Cup. The new coach must be able to integrate international talent, manage egos, and implement a modern system that fits the club’s swashbuckling identity. The future is bright, but the blueprint has been laid by Cherundolo. It will now be up to his successor to build upon this incredible foundation.
Final Thoughts: A Thank You and a Look Ahead
Steve Cherundolo’s departure marks the end of a golden era for LAFC. He took over a team in a transitional period and turned them into champions. His tactical flexibility, calm leadership, and ability to win the biggest games will be his lasting legacy. While his last season has yet to be played, the groundwork for the next generation has already been laid.
For fans, this is a time to reflect on the incredible journey of the past few years. For the club’s front office, it is a time to be meticulous in their search. And for the players, it is a time to rally together and deliver one last trophy for their manager. The 2025 season promises to be one of the most compelling storylines in MLS history.
As we wait for the next chapter to unfold, I encourage all readers to share their thoughts. Who do you think should be the next head coach of LAFC? What is your favorite memory of the Cherundolo era? Leave a comment below, share this article with a fellow soccer fan, and be sure to check out more in-depth coverage of MLS tactics and transfers here on Baji Live. Let’s keep the conversation going!
