The Chicago Stars have hired Vlatko Andonovski as their new chief soccer officer, bringing the former USWNT head coach onto the staff of the last-place NWSL club.
Andonovski’s appointment comes just 10 days after his departure from the Kansas City Current, where his role as sporting director was ended by mutual contract termination. A two-time NWSL champion as a coach, Andonovski has earned recognition for building trust with players and staff amid ongoing concerns about misconduct in the league.
Key Facts
- Vlatko Andonovski named chief soccer officer of the Chicago Stars.
- He left the Kansas City Current 10 days ago via mutual contract termination.
- Andonovski previously won two NWSL championships and two NWSL Coach of the Year awards.
- The Chicago Stars currently sit in last place in the NWSL.
The Story
Why This Move Matters
The Chicago Stars turned to Vlatko Andonovski in an effort to revitalize a struggling franchise that remains at the bottom of the National Women’s Soccer League standings. His hiring signals a shift in leadership philosophy, emphasizing experience and a track record of success.
Andonovski brings a wealth of knowledge from his time coaching the U.S. Women’s National Team and leading FC Kansas City to championship titles. His arrival could provide stability and credibility to a program seeking to rebuild its identity.
This change also reflects broader trends in women’s soccer, where experienced executives are being prioritized to elevate team performance and governance standards across the league.
How Did We Get Here?
Andonovski’s exit from Kansas City was abrupt, with both sides agreeing to part ways after less than a year in his role as sporting director. The team cited a lack of fit, suggesting misalignments within the organization’s structure and vision.
His swift return to another NWSL club underscores the demand for proven leaders in women’s professional soccer. The Stars hope his familiarity with player development and strategic planning can help reverse their fortunes.
With the season ongoing, questions remain about how quickly Andonovski can influence roster decisions and implement changes that lead to improved results for the team.
What Happens Next?
While Andonovski has officially joined the Chicago Stars, the full scope of his responsibilities and timeline for impact remain unclear. Details regarding potential roster moves or tactical adjustments have not yet been disclosed.
The Stars are expected to lean heavily on Andonovski’s expertise during the upcoming transfer window. However, whether his leadership alone will be enough to lift them out of last place is uncertain.
Observers will watch closely to see if internal dynamics improve under his guidance. Early indicators may include player retention, recruitment efforts, and overall team morale throughout the remainder of the season.
What We Know — and What We Don’t
Verified by the source:
- The Chicago Stars announced the hiring of Vlatko Andonovski as chief soccer officer.
- He previously coached the USWNT and won two NWSL championships.
- His departure from Kansas City Current occurred 10 days prior to this announcement.
Still unconfirmed:
- Specific terms or duration of Andonovski’s contract with the Stars.
- Immediate plans for roster modifications or coaching staff updates.
- Reasons behind his dismissal from the Kansas City Current beyond the stated ‘not the right fit.’
Why It Matters
This appointment highlights growing investment in experienced leadership within women’s professional soccer. Teams are increasingly turning to respected figures like Andonovski to drive competitiveness and integrity, especially as the sport continues expanding ahead of major international tournaments.
What To Watch
Stakeholders will monitor early signs of progress under Andonovski’s leadership, particularly any moves involving player acquisitions or organizational restructuring that signal long-term commitment to success.