Donovan, one of the best USMNT players of all-time, joins the NWSL club as coach.
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Donovan set to coach Wave for rest of the season.Donovan has previous soccer ties in SD.Wave currently out of playoff picture.WHAT HAPPENED?
The San Diego Wave have turned to American soccer icon Landon Donovan in hopes of turning their season around.
The Wave are mired in a disappointing campaign after winning the NWSL Shield just a season ago. The club currently sits 10th in the league with just 15 points in 16 matches. Donovan, who has roots in San Diego, will be counted on to right the ship.
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“We are thrilled to have Landon join the club and lead the team for the remainder of the season, including the first-ever Concacaf W Champions Cup," said San Diego Wave FC Sporting Director and General Manager Camille Ashton. "Landon’s level of knowledge, understanding, and experience as both a player and a coach, provides us with a leader that can help guide this club to where we want to be – in a playoff position and competing for a Championship."
"His passion for this city and growing the game, along with having a player-first mentality, make him a natural fit for this club.”
THE BIGGER PICTURE
This isn't Donovan's first foray into the club soccer scene in San Diego.
Donovan was the co-founder of the San Diego Loyal in the USL. He served as the Executive Vice President of Soccer Operations for the club, after spending three years as their inaugural head coach. During his four-year stint, he guided the team to consecutive playoff appearances in 2021, 2022, and 2023.
The club ultimately folded after the 2023 season, primarily due to challenges in securing a permanent stadium and facilities, combined with MLS's decision to expand into the city.
Now with the Wave, Donovan faces a challenging situation but has a team with some talented stars on its roster. American gold medal-winners Naomi Girma, arguably the best defender in women's soccer and Jaedyn Shaw, the brightest young star in USWNT pool, are both focal points on the team.
Donovan is the only U.S. male soccer player to reach 50 goals and assists while on the national team.
WHAT NEXT FOR THE WAVE?
Donovan will likely kick off his tenure as coach in San Diego's Concacaf W Champions Cup opener on Aug. 20 against Santa Fe FC in Panama City, Panama. Then the club will return to NWSL action against rivals Angel City FC on Aug. 24