The Colorado Rapids and head coach Chris Armas announced Monday they have mutually parted ways after two seasons.
The Rapids went 11-15-8 this season and finished 11th in the Western Conference to miss out on a playoff spot. During Armas’ first season as head coach, the club went 15-14-5 and finished seventh in the West before falling in the first round of the MLS Cup playoffs.
Colorado finished in third place of the 2024 Leagues Cup tournament.
“We’re grateful to Chris for the professionalism and passion he brought to the club,” Rapids president Padraig Smith said in a statement. “He helped our group take meaningful steps forward over the past two seasons and leaves behind a strong culture that will serve us well as we begin this next chapter.”
The move comes as Armas’ contract as head coach was set to expire.
“Discussions regarding a potential contract extension took place, but both parties agreed that now was the appropriate time to move in different directions,” the Rapids said in a statement.
A New York native, Armas began his MLS playing career with the Los Angeles Galaxy in 1996 before moving on to the Chicago Fire in 1998. He played a combined 264 matches over 12 seasons, scoring 12 goals as a defensive midfielder.
Armas, now 53, also played 66 matches for the United States men’s national team from 1998-2005, scoring two goals.
According to the Rapids, the new head coach will reserve the right to fill out the remainder of the coaching staff.
–Field Level Media
