Brian Schmetzer named as finalist for IFFHS coaching award alongside Guardiola, Klopp

Seattle Sounders head coach Brian Schmetzer has been named among the 15 candidates for the International Federation of Football History and Statistics (IFFHS) top men's club coach for 2022.

Despite failing to make the MLS Cup Playoffs for the first time in their history, the Sounders made history last campaign, becoming the first MLS team to lift the Concacaf Champions League title, thus qualifying them for the Fifa Club World Cup.

The Sounders faced a tough CCL run, having to beat Liga MX giants Leon in the last eight and Pumas UNAM in the final, either side of a clash with then-MLS Cup champions NYCFC. The Rave Green also put out Honduran side Motagua in the last 16.

However, Schmetzer guided Seattle to an unbeaten run across their eight matches, winning all four of their home games and picking up draws on the road.

As a result of Seattle's historic achievement, Schmetzer has been named to a shortlist that also features the likes of Pep Guardiola, Jurgen Klopp, Jose Mourinho, and Carlo Ancelotti.

Though the IFFHS is not affiliated with Fifa, their award is recognized by the global soccer governing body.

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