Vanni Sartini out at Vancouver Whitecaps as club begins search for next head coach
The Vancouver Whitecaps announced Monday the club has parted ways with head coach Vanni Sartini, who took over the helm in 2021 and went on to win three consecutive TELUS Canadian Championship titles during his tenure.
A charismatic and ever-present figure in front of both the media and supporters alike, Sartini was particularly well-liked for the love he proudly displayed for the city of Vancouver.
"For the last three years and three months, it has been an absolute honour to be the head coach of Vancouver Whitecaps FC," Sartini offered. "I will always be grateful to Axel Schuster and ownership for entrusting me to be the technical lead of this club in such an important time. I will also always remember with fondness the successes on the field, but what I will cherish the most is the memories of my relationship with the fans, players, staff, and the community. Vancouver will always have a special place in my heart and my wife’s heart. Andiamo!"
Sartini's goal of making a deep run and competing for the MLS Cup came to an end in 2024 after a closely-contested battle with Los Angeles FC, ultimately leading to the decision.
"We are incredibly grateful to Vanni," said club sporting director and CEO Axel Schuster. "Since arriving in Vancouver six years ago, Vanni gave his all to this club and city. He embraced everything with passion and enjoyed tremendous success along the way. I am extremely thankful for our friendship and wish him all the best.
"I took my time with this decision, and it was not taken lightly. We have taken important steps each year and it is now the right time for someone else to lead this group on the pitch with fresh and new energy. We have started the process to find our next head coach as we look to take the next step and build a championship contender in MLS, as well as continental tournaments."
