Chicago Star FC Announces New Head Coach Martin Sjögren
Chicago Star FC has found its next head coach just four months after parting ways with Lorne Donaldson. The team has introduced Martin Sjögren, currently the head coach of Hammerby, who will be bringing along his long-time assistant, Anders Jacobson, as his first assistant coach. Sjögren is set to join the team after finishing the season with Hammerby, aiming to lead Chicago into the 2026 NWSL regular season. Jacobson will take the helm as interim head coach in the interim, while Ella Massar continues as an assistant.
Club sources emphasized the need to focus on preparations for the upcoming NWSL season restart, which meant Massar was not included in the interview process and did not meet the professional requirements needed for the head coach position. This process marks just the third head coach for Star FC since the team’s inception in 2023.
This announcement comes four months after Donaldson was dismissed following a disappointing start to the 2025 season, where the team lost five out of their first six games. General Manager Richard Phase cited performance issues and lack of growth as reasons for the decision. He also indicated the desired traits for future head coaches, including a strong character and a clear vision for the club’s direction.
In a statement, Phase underscored the thorough, data-centered hiring process and the importance of aligning the club’s football identity with long-term goals. Sjögren and Jacobson are expected to foster a style of play that emphasizes collective ambition and attacking football.
So why is Sjögren the chosen candidate? His appointment is a calculated gamble for the club, aiming for a turnaround and potentially missing out on other options.
Who is Hammerby?
Sjögren hails from Gimo, Sweden, and has a background as a player in the Swedish divisional leagues, including time in the top-tier Allsvenskan before transitioning into coaching. He expressed excitement about the opportunity to lead Chicago, noting a shared ambition for sustainable success.
His coaching career began at Damallsvenskan, where he secured three league titles, notably leading LDB FCMalmö to consecutive championships in 2010 and 2011. Following a successful stint, he shifted to the Norwegian women’s national team, although his tenure included mixed results, notably not advancing past the UEFA Women’s Euro group stages in 2017 and 2022.
Currently, his Hammerby squad is vying for the top spot in their league, finishing third last year and qualifying for the UEFA Women’s Champions League.
Chicago’s Transition
The franchise is entering a new phase, backed by a fresh ownership group, including Chicago Cubs co-owner Laura Ricketts, aiming for long-term success. New president Karen Lietzio’s appointment signaled a commitment to rebuilding, even as the club faced challenges and criticism regarding its environment following various allegations within women’s soccer.
Despite making the playoffs during Donaldson’s initial year, the team has struggled significantly in 2025. Several player injuries and a lack of scoring power have intensified the club’s difficulties.
The Road Ahead for Chicago
Sjögren’s arrival comes amid skepticism among fans, as the club seeks to establish credibility in a projection-laden environment. While the leadership duo promises a modern, data-informed approach to the game, the pressure remains high for them to deliver results quickly.
The timing of this change, particularly with the previous era’s issues, raises questions about the club’s overall direction and effectiveness in navigating the rebuilding process. As the Star struggles to attract global talent, the burden of proof is on the new leadership to show commitment to growth and engagement with disappointed supporters.
Fan Take: This coaching change is pivotal for Chicago Star FC as it seeks a fresh start and a resurgence in the NWSL. For fans, it means hope for better performances and a renewed connection with the club, highlighting the importance of strategic leadership in professional women’s soccer.
