Martin Sjögren Leaves Hammarby for Chicago Stars Coaching Position
Martin Sjögren departs Hammarby to coach the Chicago Stars in the NWSL, highlighting significant club achievements and future implications.
Key Points
- • Sjögren leaves Hammarby to coach Chicago Stars after this season.
- • Under his leadership, Hammarby had notable successes including a cup victory and strong league performance.
- • Sjögren's contract was purchased by the Chicago Stars, allowing Hammarby time to find a new coach.
- • The Chicago Stars are currently struggling in the league standings.
Martin Sjögren has officially announced his departure from Hammarby, where he has made significant contributions as head coach over the past year, to become the new head coach of the Chicago Stars in the National Women's Soccer League (NWSL). Sjögren, who expressed excitement about this opportunity, cited the rich tradition of women's football in the USA, saying, "...to have the chance to work with a team in a country that has such a strong tradition in women's football is an opportunity I really want to take."
Under Sjögren’s leadership, Hammarby achieved a third-place finish last season and is currently tied for first place in the Damallsvenskan, having also secured a historic Svenska Cupen victory this year. Hammarby’s sports manager, Arnór Smaráson, expressed satisfaction with the arrangement, highlighting the importance of the compensation from the Chicago club and the time afforded to find a suitable replacement, stating, "...this gives us peace of mind to conduct a thorough recruitment process for next year."
The Chicago Stars, struggling in the NWSL with only one win in their last 15 matches, have purchased Sjögren’s contract, which was set to last until 2026. This transition marks a significant change for both Hammarby and the Stars, as both prepare for the upcoming challenges in their respective leagues.