Sporting Kansas City has named Raphaël Wicky as the club’s fifth permanent head coach. Wicky, 48, signed a two-year contract through the 2027-28 MLS season, with an option for 2028-29. Wicky previously coached the Chicago Fire from 2020 to 2021 and managed Swiss side BSC Young Boys from 2022 to 2024. He also led the United States U-17 team in 2019. This will be his first full-time MLS head coaching role since leaving Young Boys. He becomes Sporting KC’s first permanent coach since Peter Vermes, who parted ways with the club after 17 seasons on 31 March. Interim coach Kerry Zavagnin finished the 2025 season, which ended with a 7-20-7 record and 28 points, the team’s lowest in the Western Conference. David Lee, Sporting KC’s president and general manager, welcomed Wicky to the club. “We are thrilled to have Raphaël as our next head coach,” Lee said. “His domestic and international experience, along with his success at the highest levels, made him the standout candidate.” Lee praised Wicky’s leadership style, describing him as a “humble, collaborative, and hard-working coach” who builds strong relationships with players and staff. He added that Wicky’s teams are “attack-minded, high-energy, and possession-oriented,” aligning with the club’s preferred style of play. Wicky, who played for Chivas USA in 2008, expressed excitement at joining Sporting KC. “I am very proud to be the new head coach,” he said. “I am eager to get started, meet the team, staff, and players, and work on a culture that reflects the club’s values.” He added that he felt an immediate connection with David Lee during their discussions. “We instantly felt aligned in terms of culture and style of play,” Wicky said. “Sporting KC has always aimed to compete for trophies, and I believe the club has all the ingredients to return to the top: strong ownership, excellent facilities, a talented academy, and a passionate fan base.” Wicky’s hiring comes just under seven weeks before Sporting KC kicks off the 2026 MLS season on 21 February against the San Jose Earthquakes. The club hopes Wicky can turn around a difficult season and restore its competitive position in the league. At Chicago Fire, Wicky compiled a 12-25-14 record over two seasons. While results were mixed, his ability to develop young talent and implement a possession-based style attracted attention from other clubs. Analysts believe his international experience with Young Boys, where he competed in European tournaments, adds valuable expertise to Sporting KC. The club’s facilities, including a modern stadium and development academy, will support Wicky’s vision. Fans are optimistic that his energetic and attacking approach will bring excitement back to the team. Sporting KC has a history of strong fan engagement, with sold-out matches and a loyal local following. Wicky’s two-year contract provides stability as the club rebuilds. The optional third year offers flexibility depending on performance and results. The team’s management has emphasized that Wicky will have input on player recruitment, training programs, and youth development. With the 2026 season approaching quickly, Wicky faces a tight schedule to integrate new strategies and strengthen the squad. Pre-season training and player evaluations will begin immediately to prepare the team for the season opener. Fans and analysts alike are watching closely to see how Wicky implements his style and whether Sporting KC can bounce back from its lowest-performing season in recent history. Success under Wicky could mark the start of a new era for the club, emphasizing attacking football and disciplined, high-energy play.