:format(webp)/cdn.vox-cdn.com/uploads/chorus_image/image/57972003/2958302828.0.jpg)
In what unfortunately seemed inevitable, someone in MLS noticed how great of a coach Gio Savarese is. The team announced today that they will part ways with the coach who according to early reports will be joining the Portland Timbers.
Confirming Savarese set to manage @TimbersFC https://t.co/xVB8DPDro0
— Taylor Twellman (@TaylorTwellman) December 12, 2017
Savarese released the following statement:
Statement from Gio Savarese.#ThankYouGio pic.twitter.com/ylHuSSICIn
— New York Cosmos (@NYCosmos) December 13, 2017
Gio was the Cosmos first coach of the modern era, and led the team to 3 Soccer Bowl Championships and in his five years with the club. He also incredibly helped to rebuild the squad in time for the 2017 season after all players were released from their contracts. Savarese will be severely missed by both players and fans alike, who were very vocal about his departure on Twitter.
Gio never ever passed up a chance to say hi or take pictures w/ us. Brought us the @naslofficial cup on a couple of occasionsb/c he believed we earned it too. It’s going to be tough to not see your pride & grit on our sidelines!
— 5 Points (@5_Points_NYC) December 13, 2017
WE LOVE YOU GIO!
Thanks for the memories!
pic.twitter.com/oAkcinOb4E
Gio is a top coach but an even better man. It’s about time the best coaches in this country go to @MLS Best of luck Gio but with your passion and preparation everyone knows you will be successful https://t.co/cHRcot1iFA
— Ryan Richter (@SHAQALDINHO) December 13, 2017
Best coach I ever played for what a manager and what a person he deserves nothing but the best https://t.co/Zmi6WNJIEQ
— ruben bover (@ruben_bover) December 13, 2017
To any #RCTID fans questioning the Gio Savarese move, you'll be worshipping him in 6 months or less. I guarantee it. #nycosmos
— GREENOIS (@Prez10Points) December 13, 2017
Congratulations to @timbersarmy on snagging the best dressed coach in American soccer (next to @MDOSSANTOSJNJ and his killer peacoats), in Gio Savarese. Please take good care of him, and forgive him for all the abuse that he will give the 4th officials. Many of them will cry.
— Midfield Press (@MidfieldPress) December 13, 2017
It is unclear at the moment who will replace Savarese as Cosmos coach at the moment. It seems that Marc Dos Santos is still available, and NASL fans know that he is a great visionary coach. Last year while mulling over if Savarese would stay I suggested the Cosmos consider former coach Alecko Eskandarian to be his heir and I would still love to see that. Who would you like to see take over?
Timbers fans should know that they are in good hands and are receiving one of the best coaches in North America at the moment. Thanks for everything Gio, you will be missed.