The Washington Post3 Minute Read
John Herdman has announced his resignation as the head coach of Canada’s men’s national team. He will be joining Toronto FC of Major League Soccer as their new coach starting on October 1st.
Herdman, a 48-year-old Briton, took charge of the men’s team in 2018 after spending seven years leading Canada’s women’s team. Under his guidance, the men’s team qualified for the World Cup for the first time since 1986. However, they were unable to secure any wins at the tournament in Qatar, losing to Belgium, Croatia, and Morocco.
Earlier, Herdman had expressed his desire to remain as the coach through the 2026 World Cup, which Canada will co-host. However, he urged the Canada Soccer Association to increase the team’s funding in June.
Toronto FC had previously fired Bob Bradley on June 26 and appointed Terry Dunfield as their interim coach. With 19 points, Toronto FC currently shares the lowest position in the 29-team league, having only three wins, 13 losses, and 10 ties.
“It’s the right time for me to take on a new challenge in my career, and working within a club environment is something I have always aspired to,” said Herdman in a statement released by Toronto FC.
“Being able to collaborate and interact with the staff and players on a daily basis provides a unique level of development and connection, both on and off the field,” added Herdman.
Mauro Biello, who has been an assistant coach since 2018, has been promoted to interim head coach. Canada is scheduled to play an exhibition match against Japan on October 13th, followed by a two-leg CONCACAF Nations League quarterfinal in November.
In addition to Herdman, assistant coaches Simon Eaddy and Eric Tenllado, lead scout Alex Dodgshon, and head of performance Cesar Meylan will also be leaving their positions.
Prior to coaching the men’s team, Herdman had coached New Zealand’s women’s team from 2006 to 2011 and successfully led Canada’s women’s team to Olympic bronze medals in 2012 and 2016.
