Vlatko Andonovski is set to make his debut as head coach of the Kansas City Current in the NWSL season opener against the Portland Thorns. This marks a significant return for Andonovski to his hometown team, where he feels a deep sense of belonging. Since the NWSL preseason began six weeks ago, Andonovski has been fully immersed in coaching, dedicating long hours to training sessions and game analysis.
Transitioning from coaching the U.S. women's national team to a club setting has been a refreshing change for Andonovski. The continuous nature of club competition appeals to him, as opposed to the intermittent schedule of international play.
Following a challenging World Cup exit in 2023, Andonovski took a break from soccer to reflect on his passion for the game. Despite receiving other coaching offers, his heart led him back to Kansas City, where he has deep roots and a strong connection to the community.
Andonovski's return to Kansas City coincides with the opening of the CPKC Stadium, a state-of-the-art facility funded by the team's owners. The Long family, along with co-owners Brittany and Patrick Mahomes, have invested significantly in creating top-tier facilities for the Current, setting new standards in the NWSL.
With high expectations for success, Andonovski faces the challenge of leading the Current to victory in a league that has evolved significantly since his previous coaching stints. The increased salary cap and international talent pool in the NWSL present new challenges that Andonovski is eager to tackle.
Despite the pressure to deliver results, Andonovski remains focused on building a competitive team in Kansas City. He believes in the potential of his players and is optimistic about the Current's prospects for the upcoming season.
As Andonovski embarks on this new chapter in his coaching career, he is determined to make a positive impact on the Kansas City Current and elevate the team to new heights in the NWSL.
