Los Angeles, CA – The appointment of Marc Dos Santos as the new head coach of LAFC signifies a new chapter for the club, one marked by considerable pressure and fervent fan anticipation. Dos Santos, previously an assistant coach, has been elevated to the top position, inheriting a team with a history of success and a mandate to continue that winning trajectory. The team faces immediate challenges, including participation in the Concacaf Champions Cup and an early MLS season opener against defending champions Inter Miami. This transition occurs shortly after the departure of former coach Steve Cherundolo, with Dos Santos being the second internal promotion to the head coaching role in the club's history.
Historical Context and Dos Santos's Rise
Marc Dos Santos's journey to becoming LAFC's head coach is a narrative of consistent involvement within the club's structure and a recognized capacity for leadership.
Read More: Luka Doncic: One Year with Lakers, Big Choices Ahead
Prior Role: Dos Santos served as an assistant coach for LAFC for four seasons, contributing to the team's success, which includes three major trophies.
Internal Promotion: He was officially introduced as the third head coach in LAFC history on December 15, 2025, following the departure of Steve Cherundolo. This mirrors the club's previous decision to promote Cherundolo from within.
Experience: His coaching career spans 18 years across three countries, including previous head coaching roles in Montreal, San Francisco (NASL), and extensive experience in the NASL and USL. He was named NASL Coach of the Year in 2015 and 2017. His North American head coaching record stands at 146 wins, 118 losses, and 88 draws.
"He has earned the trust in his time at LAFC of our locker room, from our young emerging players to our most experienced veterans. This is an important moment for our club. He knows how meaningful the connections with our fans are." - LAFC Executive Team
Embracing the Pressure Cooker
A recurring theme in discussions surrounding Dos Santos's appointment is his direct acknowledgment and acceptance of the high expectations placed upon him and the team. This sentiment appears to be a deliberate strategy, reflecting his personal philosophy on coaching and leadership.
Read More: LeBron James Says Lakers Are Not a Championship Team
Open Acknowledgment: Dos Santos has openly stated his willingness to face scrutiny, characterizing the pressure as a "privilege."
Focus on Resilience: He has previously spoken about lessons learned from setbacks, emphasizing his readiness to "get up" after falling, suggesting a belief in developing resilience.
Fan Connection: The club emphasizes Dos Santos's understanding of the importance of fan connections and the passion they bring to the team.
"Because I want to know when he fell, can he get up?… And Dos Santos is not just fine with that, he’s embracing it." - Edinburg Post Article
Tactical Vision and Team Continuity
Dos Santos is expected to implement and build upon LAFC's established playing style, focusing on an aggressive, possession-based approach. The team largely retains the players from the previous season, providing a foundation for continuity.
Read More: El Camino Real Soccer Families Connect and Win
Playing Style: He has been implementing an "aggressive possession-based attacking game" during the preseason. This aligns with LAFC's historical identity.
Player Retention: The squad includes a majority of players Dos Santos worked with in the previous year, including key figures like Son Heung-min and Denis Bouanga.
Son's Role: Dos Santos has specifically indicated support for Son Heung-min in a "false nine" role, suggesting a willingness to adapt player positions to maximize their effectiveness.
"Dos Santos is expected to build upon the aggressive, front-foot style that has defined the Black & Gold since its inception." - The Sporting Tribune Article
Immediate Competitive Landscape
The new head coach faces a demanding schedule from the outset, with critical early-season competitions that will quickly test his leadership and the team's preparedness.
Concacaf Champions Cup: LAFC is scheduled to compete in this continental tournament in early February.
MLS Season Opener: The league campaign begins later that month, notably against the reigning MLS Cup champions, Inter Miami.
Intensive Offseason: The team's preparation period has been described as an "intensive offseason" leading into a "fast-approaching competitive debut."
Expert Perspectives and Public Reception
While not explicitly stated as "criticism," the inherent pressure of coaching a club like LAFC, with its demanding fanbase and high standards, is a focal point. Dos Santos's own words suggest he is prepared for this environment.
Internal Hire Confidence: The promotion of Dos Santos, a familiar face and part of the previous coaching staff, suggests confidence from club leadership, such as General Manager John Thorrington, in his ability to maintain success.
Experience as a Foundation: His extensive coaching history, including time in different leagues and countries, is seen as having shaped his approach to managing adversity and expectations.
Conclusion
The appointment of Marc Dos Santos as LAFC's head coach marks a transition built on internal familiarity and a clear strategic direction. His public acknowledgment of and apparent comfort with the significant pressure accompanying the role suggest a proactive approach to the challenges ahead. The immediate schedule, featuring continental and league competition against top-tier opponents, will serve as an early benchmark for his tenure. The club's decision to promote from within signals a desire for continuity in both culture and playing style, with Dos Santos tasked with upholding LAFC's reputation for success.
LA Times: LAFC manager Marc Dos Santos embraces expectations: 'A privilege to be under pressure'
Edinburg Post: Marc Dos Santos knows LAFC fans expect more than a winner. He’s embracing that pressure
LAFC Official Website: In Their Words | Marc Dos Santos Introductory Press Conference | Los Angeles Football Club
The Sporting Tribune: Marc Dos Santos is the familiar face leading LAFC's next chapter
Daily News: New LAFC coach Marc Dos Santos is confident he can deliver
NBC Los Angeles: LAFC names Marc Dos Santos as new head coach
The Korea Daily (via AOL): Marc Dos Santos Begins LAFC Duties, Backs Son Heung-min as False Nine
