LOS ANGELES — Marc Dos Santos has been appointed as the new head coach of LAFC.
The former assistant to outgoing coach Steve Cherundolo was promoted on Friday by general manager John Thorrington.
Dos Santos, who previously coached the Vancouver Whitecaps, marks the third head coach in LAFC’s history. He has been part of Cherundolo’s staff for the last four seasons, during which LAFC secured the 2022 MLS Cup and Supporters’ Shield, made it to the 2023 MLS Cup final, and clinched the 2024 U.S. Open Cup.
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Thorrington expressed confidence in Dos Santos, stating, “Marc has a profound understanding of what the best version of LAFC entails—a dynamic, attacking style of play driven by ambition, intensity, and a collaborative culture that embodies our club’s identity.” He added, “Marc has earned the trust and respect of all our players, from our emerging talents to our seasoned veterans, and the support for his appointment is unanimous.”
LAFC concluded Cherundolo’s final season by finishing third in the Western Conference, gaining momentum after acquiring Son Heung-Min midseason.
However, the season ended disappointingly last month with a penalty shootout loss to Vancouver in the conference semifinals, after failing to secure a winning goal despite the Whitecaps being reduced to ten players.
Cherundolo revealed his decision to leave last April after four successful seasons, mentioning his wish to move his family back to Germany.
At 48, Dos Santos is a Montreal native who was part of LAFC’s inaugural coaching staff alongside Bob Bradley in 2018. He took over as head coach of Vancouver in November 2018 and remained until August 2021, finishing with a record of 22-39-20 without reaching the playoffs.
Thorrington’s choice to promote from within follows his decision to hire Cherundolo, a longtime friend and former teammate who coached LAFC’s USL affiliate before taking the helm.
Dos Santos commented, “This is a special club. You feel the energy as soon as you enter the training facility or stadium, and when you meet everyone involved, the passion is evident. The ambition is clear in our daily approach and the standards we set.” He added, “My priority is to build upon the strong foundation and culture already established here.”
In addition to his experience in Major League Soccer, Dos Santos also spent two seasons coaching in Brazil. He takes over a roster featuring the exciting attacking pair of Son and MLS standout Denis Bouanga, alongside veteran goalkeeper Hugo Lloris, though upgrades may be needed in other areas to compete with the league’s elite.
Dos Santos will make his coaching debut at the Los Angeles Coliseum on February 21, facing off against Lionel Messi and Inter Miami.
Thorrington added, “Marc has long been an integral part of LAFC’s vibrant culture, and his continued presence fosters continuity. At the same time, he brings fresh perspectives and innovative strategies that will further raise the standard for our club.”