The Portland Timbers announced today, Monday, that they have fired their head coach, Gio Savarese. Here’s what you need to know:
- Assistant coach Miles Joseph will serve as interim head coach for the rest of the season.
- The move comes after Portland lost 5-0 to the Houston Dynamo on Sunday.
- Savarese has been with the Timbers since the 2018 season, and has led the club to two MLS Cup finals (2018, 2021). The club won the MLS is Back championship during the 2020 season.
what are they saying
“Gio was an exceptional coach for the Timbers and a pleasure to work with,” team owner Merritt Paulson said in a statement. He achieved some impressive results during his tenure with the club, including two MLS Cup appearances and one MLS Championship return. I want to thank Geo for everything he has done for us. We will miss him.”
“We are incredibly grateful for the commitment Gio has made to the Portland Timbers over the past six seasons, and it was an honor to have the opportunity to work with him,” Timbers general manager Ned Grabavoy said in a statement. He added, “His success during his time with the club speaks for itself, and we wish Gio the best moving forward.”
background story
Savarese compiled a 74-47-62 (WDL) record during his time in charge of the Timbers. Portland ranks 12th in the Western Conference with 26 points from 24 games. They are five points below the playoff line.
Savarese, who won three NBA titles as manager of the New York Cosmos before joining the Timbers, signed a new contract this winter.
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(Photo: Diego Diaz/Icon Sportswire via Getty Images)
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