January 10, 2024
D.C. United has officially announced the appointment of Troy Lesesne as their new head coach, marking a significant change in leadership for the storied MLS club. Lesesne, who recently served as the interim head coach of New York Red Bulls, has signed a three-year contract with the Black-and-Red, extending through the 2026 season.
Lesesne’s coaching career, spanning over a decade, has seen him work at various levels in American soccer, starting in 2005 as an assistant coach with the College of Charleston. His journey includes significant stints with the Charleston Battery, Charlotte Independence, and New Mexico United in the USL Championship. Under his guidance, New Mexico United saw two playoff appearances and reached the quarterfinals of the 2019 Lamar Hunt U.S. Open Cup.
In 2022, Lesesne stepped into the MLS as an assistant coach with the New York Red Bulls. He took over as interim head coach in early May 2023 and led the team to a remarkable playoff appearance after a challenging start to the season.
Troy Lesesne’s high-pressing tactical approach and player-first managerial style were key factors in his selection by D.C. United. The club’s General Manager and Chief Soccer Officer, Ally Mackay, praised Lesesne’s impressive pedigree and his ability to work at all levels of soccer in the United States. Lesesne himself has expressed gratitude for the opportunity and is committed to leading D.C. United into a new chapter, aiming to connect with the passionate supporters and deliver the results they deserve.
D.C. United, under Lesesne’s leadership, is looking to chart a new path after finishing 12th in the Eastern Conference in the previous season. The club is in pursuit of its first postseason appearance since 2019 and is undergoing a significant squad rebuild. With room to sign a Designated Player to complement the likes of striker Christian Benteke and midfielder Mateusz Klich, Lesesne will have the opportunity to shape the team according to his vision.
Lesesne’s first test as D.C. United’s head coach will be on February 24, 2024, when they face New England Revolution at Audi Field. Fans and observers alike will be keen to see how Lesesne’s strategies and leadership will rejuvenate the team and elevate their performance in the MLS.
