The official story is that Tom Soehn decided to withdraw his name from consideration to be United's coach going forward. Whether this is the case or, as is common in the business world, he was given this option to save face, we will probably never know. Read about it here and here. The press release is here.
Obviously, I think this is a good move. But don't take my word for it. Here is what Bryan Namoff had to say:
I was under the impression that he was coming back. I'm a little
surprised. ... It's a difficult transition for the players when you
bring in a new coach. You have to re-prove yourself. You're on trial in
a way and you don't know whether you fit into the new coach's plans. I
hope they don't try to break up this team.
Sounds like he's sad to see Tommy go, right? But these comments illustrate one of the many reasons that Soehn needed to be shown the door. The team was complacent and comfortable with Soehn, and this showed on the field. Moreno and Gomez don't feel like playing defense? Fine. Emilio can't be bothered to make off-the-ball runs? No biggie. A change in attitude, increased accountability, and the need to fight for playing time are what the doctor ordered.
Even better, we were spared the wait of a long death watch in the
offseason, which should hopefully allow a new management team to be
installed in time to get things in order for next year.
Now, the DCUniverse will turn its attention to who the next coach should be. There are an awful lot of sentimental candidates involving men with DC United ties. I say, forget sentiment. In fact, don't start the search with names. Start by drawing up a list of desirable attributes you want in the coach, and then go out and look for someone who best fits your shopping list.
Attributes such as: good at spotting and developing talent, demonstrated record of success, managed playoff teams, pushes players to practice hard, has stature to command respect of veterans, communicates constantly and effectively with players, a good teacher, values "attractive" styles of play (if you must), looks good in a uniform (especially important for people like Mrs. Curmudgeon), etc.
In fact, I have already done DC United an enormous favor and completed the search for the new coach. Take note of the date and time, because I have found the perfect candidate:
Think about it.
UPDATED:Goff posts a poll on his site and the blog-reading masses appear to prefer Richie Williams to be the next coach. Even if he was a good candidate, why would he want to come here instead of leaving his hometown and the brand new deluxe stadium the Red Bulls will be moving into?
BDR takes aim at Kevin Payne's doubletalk.
Fullback asks the questions many of us are pondering.