Chicago, IL – The Chicago Stars dismissed head coach Lorne Donaldson on Wednesday following disappointing results this season. The timing of a permanent replacement remains uncertain.
General Manager Richard Feuz spoke on Thursday, clarifying the decision to part ways with the former Jamaica national team coach just six weeks into the 2025 campaign. The team had secured only one win in six games, sitting at the bottom of the league standings. This marked a significant drop after Donaldson had guided the team to a playoff spot by finishing eighth in 2024.
Feuz expressed gratitude for Donaldson`s efforts but pointed to a lack of progress on the field as the season began.
A Decision Rooted in Performance
Donaldson was initially brought in to stabilize the team during a rebuilding phase, and according to Feuz and other sources, he successfully fostered a positive atmosphere and confidence among the players. However, the team`s poor recent form, with nine losses in their last ten games stretching back to 2024, led the front office to act.
The general manager acknowledged Donaldson`s positive impact on morale, but stressed that professional soccer ultimately hinges on performance. He indicated that data highlighted insufficient progress in key areas such as possession and control.
The team`s struggle to score, netting just three goals in six matches this season, illustrates their offensive difficulties. Feuz conceded that injuries, including the absence of top scorer Mallory Swanson, were a factor, but maintained that the squad was capable of achieving better results.
He stated, “We expected more progression from our team in how we play, how we control the game, and how we are more proactive with the ball.”
Interim Leadership and Coaching Search
The general manager did not provide a specific timeline for finding a new head coach, emphasizing the club`s desire to take its time to identify the ideal candidate. He reaffirmed his confidence in the current coaching staff and players, noting that the team`s performance in the upcoming weeks will influence the direction of the search.
Assistant coach Masaki Hemmi has been appointed interim head coach while the search for a permanent replacement is underway. Feuz commended Hemmi`s leadership and communication abilities, describing him as a respected presence within the team.
When asked about the desired attributes for the next head coach, Feuz highlighted character and a distinct playing style.
Feuz outlined the characteristics they will seek: “First and foremost, we are looking for an outstanding person. That is the club`s top priority. Naturally, we also want someone who shares the club`s values, both on and off the field, and demonstrates ambition.” He added, “Another crucial element will be the playing style and identity we want to establish for this team, not just in the coming months, but over the next few years. We aim to build something with a clear identity, so that when people watch us play, they immediately recognize the Stars because of our strong on-field identity.”
A Rebuild Reality Check
Despite the coaching change, Feuz maintained that the season is not lost and expressed confidence in the current roster, believing the team can still contend for a playoff position. He noted this is the second year under the new ownership and his second year as GM, reiterating the club`s long-term goals.
Feuz elaborated on the club`s vision: “Over the medium and long term, we aim for sustainability, built on stability and cohesion. However, we also require visible progress on the field and the highest standards in training daily to implement our desired methodology over the coming months and years.” He added, “Everyone, from management to players and staff, must take responsibility for these results. But the data also clearly showed that, in our view, the team hasn`t progressed sufficiently on the field over the past few months, not just since the season started, which is why we made this decision.”
What`s Next
For the Stars, a key part of moving forward involves finding a leader capable of maximizing the current squad`s potential, implementing a winning strategy, and delivering results both immediately and long-term.
Donaldson`s dismissal is a significant moment for Chicago Stars FC. While he contributed to resetting the team`s culture, his departure highlights ongoing long-term challenges that cannot be solved simply by rebranding. The true indicators of the club turning a corner will be attracting top players, fostering a competitive environment, securing dedicated facilities, and consistently winning – goals the team is currently far from achieving.
