Fire names Frank Klopas as head coach

05/12/2023 19:30

Frank Klopas will once again lead the Chicago Fire into a new MLS campaign.

Klopas was announced as the club’s new head coach on Tuesday, moving from the interim role that he served in for the second half of last season. He has registered a 49-43-29 regular season record during his past stints as the Fire’s head and interim coach.

"We conducted a thorough process with numerous well-qualified candidates, and we believe that Frank Klopas is the right person to lead the team," Chicago sporting director Georg Heitz said in a release. "Frank is hard-working, has strong relationships with our players and staff, and knows what it takes to be successful in this league.

"During the interview process Frank laid out a clear plan to create a winning culture and mentality within the club, and we are all aligned on the areas that we need to strengthen to be much more competitive in 2024. We will work closely with Frank to improve the roster and finalize his coaching staff for the upcoming season."

2024 will mark Klopas’ second full head coaching spell with the Fire after previously serving on three different interim occasions. He also led CF Montreal as head coach.

The Fire are seeking their first MLS Cup Playoffs berth since 2017 after finishing 13th in the Eastern Conference this past year.

Xherdan Shaqiri, Brian Gutierrez, and Chris Brady headline the Fire roster heading into 2024.

"I've never made it a secret how much I care for this wonderful club and city. Chicago is my home, and I would do anything to bring success to the Fire," said Klopas. "At this time, I believe that stepping back onto the sidelines is where I can best help this club achieve its goals.”