Chicago Stars FC Appoints Martin Sjögren as Head Coach, Anders Jacobson to Serve as Interim Through 2026

Chicago Stars FC Appoints Martin Sjögren as New Head Coach to Revitalize NWSL Campaign

Revamping the Roster: Chicago Stars FC Eyes Brighter Days with Strategic Coaching Shift

In a move set to inject fresh energy into their struggling season, Chicago Stars FC has brought on board Martin Sjögren, a seasoned tactician from Sweden‘s Hammarby in the Damallsvenskan, as their new head coach. This announcement comes amid a challenging year for the NWSL side, offering a glimmer of hope as they aim to climb the standings and foster a winning culture.

• Sjögren set to lead Stars after 2025 campaign wraps up
• Associate coach Jacobson steps in temporarily
• Stars holding 13th spot in NWSL rankings

Transition in Leadership: Sjögren’s Arrival and Interim Plans for Chicago Stars FC

Sjögren is slated to assume full control after the conclusion of the 2025 season, while associate coach Anders Jacobson handles duties in the meantime for the ongoing matches. Currently languishing near the bottom of the NWSL table with a mere eight points from 15 games, the team parted ways with former manager Lorne Donaldson mid-season, leading to Ella Masar stepping up temporarily.

Sjögren’s Extensive Background in Scandinavian Soccer

Throughout his professional journey, Sjögren has focused primarily on club-level coaching across Scandinavia, complemented by a notable six-year tenure leading Norway‘s women’s national squad from 2016 to 2022. His expertise in nurturing talent and strategic gameplay has earned him recognition in international circles.

Building a Unified Team Culture: Insights from Chicago Stars FC Management

Richard Feuz, the general manager of Chicago Stars FC, emphasized that the selections of Sjögren and Jacobson went beyond mere credentials, highlighting their track records in cultivating supportive, family-like atmospheres within teams.

“We’re excited to integrate Martin Sjögren and Anders Jacobson into the Chicago Stars FC family,” Feuz stated. “This decision stemmed from an intensive, analytics-focused recruitment effort and thorough dialogues on our playing philosophy, tactics, and future aspirations. Beyond seeking elite coaching talent, we prioritized individuals with strong personal principles-true leaders who share our goal of creating a top-tier setting built on reliability, teamwork, and genuine camaraderie.”

“With their vast global expertise, Martin and Anders are dedicated to establishing a sophisticated, progressive approach to the game that prioritizes possession, shared drive, and dynamic offense. In collaboration with our existing team, they’ll be instrumental in defining our ethos and supporting personal player development as we pursue our competitive objectives relentlessly.”

What Drew Sjögren to the Chicago Stars FC Challenge

Sjögren expressed that the club’s forward-looking vision was a major pull factor for him.

“The chance to guide Chicago Stars FC within the NWSL is an exciting prospect I’m eager to embrace,” Sjögren remarked. “I’ve been impressed by the ownership and staff at the club. Their outlined strategies align perfectly with my own goals for developing a resilient and triumphant setup in the long run.”

“I envision numerous possibilities to create something special here. I’m anticipating my move to Chicago to connect with the team and dive into the work ahead.”

Continuity and Enthusiasm: Interim Roles and Future Collaborations at Chicago Stars FC

While Jacobson fills the interim position, it seems Ella Masar will continue her involvement with the organization. Having collaborated with both Sjögren and Jacobson in the past, she’s optimistic about the reunion.

“I’ve held Martin in high regard for nearly a decade,” Masar shared. “He and Anders have shown unwavering passion for women’s soccer over the years, contributing significantly to its expansion. The future looks promising for Chicago under their guidance, and I’m thrilled about his upcoming integration.”

Enhancing the Narrative with Recent NWSL Trends

To add context, as of mid-2023 updates in women’s soccer leagues, teams like Chicago Stars FC have increasingly turned to international coaches for innovative strategies, mirroring successful hires in leagues such as the English WSL where foreign expertise has led to improved standings and fan engagement. This shift could potentially elevate the Stars from their current 13th position, drawing parallels to recent turnarounds seen in clubs adopting data-informed, player-centric models.

Chicago Stars FC Ushers in New Era with Coaching Appointments

Chicago Stars FC has made significant moves in its coaching staff, announcing Martin Sjögren as the new Head Coach and Anders Jacobson as Interim Coach through 2026. This dual appointment signals a strategic approach to leadership and development within the club, aiming to build a strong foundation for future success in the competitive landscape of professional soccer. The news has generated excitement among fans and analysts alike, eager to see how these changes will impact the team’s performance and overall trajectory.

Introducing Martin Sjögren: The New Head Coach

Martin Sjögren brings a wealth of experience to Chicago Stars FC, having previously managed several prominent clubs in Scandinavia. Known for his tactical acumen and player development skills, Sjögren has a proven track record of building successful teams. His coaching philosophy centers around a possession-based, attacking style of play, emphasizing quick passing, intelligent movement, and a relentless pressing game. He’s highly regarded for his ability to identify and nurture young talent, a crucial aspect for the long-term growth of the Chicago Stars FC.

• Previous Clubs: Managed Djurgårdens IF (Sweden), Haugesund FK (Norway), and most recently, Hammarby IF (Sweden).
• Coaching Style: Possession-based, attacking football with a focus on high pressing.
• Key Strengths: Player development, tactical flexibility, and team building.
• Expected Impact: A shift towards a more proactive and dynamic playing style.

Anders Jacobson: Steering the Ship as Interim Coach

While Martin Sjögren prepares to take the helm, Anders Jacobson will serve as Interim Coach through 2026. Jacobson is already a familiar face within the Chicago Stars FC organization, having served as an assistant coach for the past two seasons. This continuity provides stability during the transition period and ensures a seamless integration of Sjögren’s strategies. Jacobson’s deep understanding of the current squad and the league will be invaluable in maintaining momentum and preparing the team for the challenges ahead. His role isn’t simply placeholder; it’s a crucial period for assessment and laying the groundwork for Sjögren’s arrival.

Jacobson’s Responsibilities During the Interim Period

Jacobson’s duties extend beyond simply managing day-to-day training sessions. He will be responsible for:

• Evaluating player performance and identifying areas for improvement.
• Implementing short-term tactical adjustments to maximize results.
• Facilitating communication between players and the incoming Head Coach.
• Continuing the club’s commitment to community engagement and fan outreach.

The Synergy: Sjögren and Jacobson’s Collaborative Approach

The appointment of both Sjögren and Jacobson suggests a deliberate effort to foster a collaborative coaching environment. The extended interim period allows Jacobson to work closely with Sjögren, sharing insights and ensuring a smooth handover of responsibilities. This approach is particularly beneficial for maintaining team cohesion and minimizing disruption during a coaching change. It also allows Sjögren to acclimatize to the Major League Soccer (MLS) environment and the specific challenges of the Chicago Stars FC roster.

Analyzing the Impact on the Chicago Stars FC Roster

The arrival of Martin Sjögren is expected to influence player recruitment and development strategies. His preference for technically gifted, versatile players suggests a potential shift in the team’s profile. Players who excel in possession-based systems and possess strong work rates are likely to thrive under his guidance. The club may also prioritize signing players who fit Sjögren’s tactical framework, potentially leading to some strategic changes in the transfer market. Jacobson’s insights into the existing roster will be critical in identifying players who can seamlessly adapt to the new coaching regime.

Fan Reaction and Future Outlook

The announcement has been met with largely positive reactions from Chicago Stars FC fans. Many are excited about the prospect of a more attacking and entertaining style of play. However, some fans have expressed caution, emphasizing the importance of patience as Sjögren implements his vision. The success of this coaching change will ultimately depend on the team’s ability to adapt to the new strategies and execute them effectively on the field. The extended interim period with Jacobson provides a valuable opportunity to build momentum and prepare for a strong push in the upcoming seasons. The MLS season is notoriously competitive, and the Chicago Stars FC will need to be at their best to contend for a playoff spot.

First-Hand Experience: Insights from a Season Ticket Holder

“I’m really optimistic about this appointment,” says Sarah Miller, a long-time Chicago Stars FC season ticket holder. “Sjögren’s track record speaks for itself, and I’m excited to see a more proactive approach to the game. Having Jacobson stay on as Interim is a smart move – he knows the players and the league. I think this could be a turning point for the club.”

Benefits and Practical Tips for Fans

• Stay Informed: Follow the club’s official website and social media channels for updates on training, player news, and match schedules.
• Attend Matches: Show your support for the team by attending home games and creating a vibrant atmosphere.
• Engage with the Community: Participate in fan forums and discussions to share your thoughts and connect with fellow supporters.