Nico Estevez named as new FC Dallas head coach

FC Dallas have announced Nico Estévez as their new head coach.

Director of soccer operations Marco Ferruzzi had been filling the void on an interim basis following the dismissal of Luchi Gonzalez in September.

After serving as Gregg Berhalter's assistant with both the Columbus Crew and USMNT since 2017, Estevez has now taken up the vacant role, becoming Dallas' eighth full-time head coach.

“This is a phenomenal opportunity to lead FC Dallas,” the Spaniard said of his new role via an official club press release. “The club is globally recognized for developing talent and I’m looking forward to working with these players. I’d like to thank the Hunt family for their trust and commitment. I expect my team to work hard and play an attractive style of soccer that will make FC Dallas fans proud.” 

During his spell with the USMNT, Estevez - who has previously managed Spanish giants Valencia on an interim basis, as well as Los Che's B team - has coached current Dallas stars such as Ricardo Pepi, Jesus Ferreira, and Justin Che, while he's also worked closely with academy products such as Chris Richards, Weston McKennie, Bryan Reynolds, and Reggie Cannon.

“Nico’s familiarity with our player pool and understanding of our roster are huge assets,” said FC Dallas president Dan Hunt. “He understands how to have success across all levels of the game and will do what is necessary to produce winning results.”

Chairman and CEO Clark Hunt added: “Nico is a seasoned coach with experience at the highest levels of our game, both in the United States and in Europe.

“He has the drive, the knowledge, and the vision to succeed, and he has a proven track record as a great teacher and communicator. We are excited about the future of FC Dallas under his leadership.”

Estevez will have his work cut out rebuilding for the 2022 season. Aside from the expected departure of Pepi - first revealed by 90min - Dallas finished 11th in the Western Conference, missing out on the MLS Cup Playoffs for the first time since 2017 and only the second time since 2013.

Following the club's recent roster decisions, Dallas have just 17 players currently under contract for the upcoming campaign.