Source: Icon Sportswire / Getty
Charlotte FC parted ways with Head Coach Christian Lattanzio & Assistant Coach Andy Quy on Wednesday, as the club concluded its front office offseason evaluation this week.Lattanzio led the club to its first playoff berth this season, ultimately falling in the Wild Card Round to New York Red Bulls, 5-2, two weeks ago. He went 22-24-14 as manager with Charlotte FC in all competitions, but the stats that led to his demise revolved around the club’s inability to close out games.
Most points dropped from winning positions in MLS this season:
1. Charlotte FC, 25
T-2. Minnesota United, 22
T-2. Columbus Crew, 22
Worst goal difference after 84th min:
1. Charlotte FC, -7
T-2. Toronto, -6
T-2. San Jose, -6
Charlotte in a four-way tie for final playoff spot. pic.twitter.com/ZXTCvfrwMu
— Tom Bogert (@tombogert) October 19, 2023
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In a statement provided by the club, Charlotte FC President Joe LaBue said, “We undertook an offseason evaluation of our organization and we’re confident this move is in the best interest of the Club for 2024 and beyond. Our Club will continue to be ambitious and strive to progress both on and off the pitch.”
A league source told WFNZ that the club felt they would have an opportunity for “further growth” under a new manager as opposed to bringing back Lattanzio. The source also said the move was not connected to any potential player movement such as the reported rumor mill surrounding Charlotte FC Designated Player Karol Swiderski.
The Polish Designated Player was Charlotte’s most productive, but served as a lightning rod for fans along with the Head Coach, as parts that failed to coexist along with offseason import striker Enzo Copetti. Swiderski has made public in multiple interviews his desire to evenutally end up back in Europe, and it’s more than likely that could occur as soon as the Winter Transfer Window beginning in January.
As for the club, they now embark on its third different manager in as many seasons.
“A thorough and comprehensive search for the Club’s next head coach will begin immediately,” said Charlotte FC Sporting Director Zoran Krneta in a statement. “Out of respect to all prospective candidates, we will not have further comment at this time.”
Charlotte FC Radio play-by-play announcer Will Palaszczuk appeared on the Mac & Bone Show to provide reaction to the move:
