Two SoCal teams. Two powerhouse coaches. One shared strategy: bring a bold European style to the NWSL. Welcome to the new era of West Coast soccer, led by Angel City’s Alex Strauss and San Diego Wave’s Jonas Eidevall.
Angel City FC – Alex Strauss
This season, two of the NWSL’s SoCal teams have something in common beyond palm trees, loyal fans, and packed stadiums. They’re both led by European coaches.
After a stressful start to the season, including player health scares (we love Savy King!) and strange substitution choices that left fans questioning leadership, fans of Angel City FC breathed a sigh of relief with the announcement of the start of Alex Strauss as new Head Coach after the interim leadership of Sam Laity.
Strauss is a seasoned Norwegian coach who helped lead Bayern München to three consecutive titles. Known for his tactical precision and player-focused development, Strauss has brought a smart, attacking system that leans on technical skill, structured pressing, and confidence on the ball. But he’s also bringing an awareness of the importance of the people.
“You need to know the people, not the players…it’s about what gives them the confidence to be creative, to be open to development, to be coachable. How can I get the best out of them?” Strauss…
