TORONTO – Tom Anselmi said after a frustrating season that Toronto FC fans would know the big-name consultant entrusted with reversing the franchise’s fortunes for 2011.
He couldn’t have found anyone more well-known – or unexpected – than Jürgen Klinsmann.
A report in the Friday edition of The Globe and Mail links the former German national team coach with a potential consultant spot at Toronto FC, and adds that sources close to Maple Leaf Sports & Entertainment could make an announcement on the deal as soon as next week.
The report states that Klinsmann will be given total control to rebuild the Reds organization, which failed once again this year to reach the postseason. The club parted ways with head coach Preki in mid-September after less than a season on the job and also dismissed GM Mo Johnston as the team struggled down the stretch.
If hired, Klinsmann is expected to examine the organization’s infrastructure and youth academy system, and will likely recommend a candidate for the new director of soccer operations to replace Johnston.
Klinsmann – who coached Germany to the semifinals of the 2006 World Cup and has coached at famed Bundesliga side Bayern Munich – has consulted for the LA Galaxy in the past. He was also considered for the head coach of the US national team both after the 2006 World Cup and earlier this fall before Bob Bradley signed a four-year extension to lead the team through 2014.
Interim director of soccer Earl Cochrane, his assistant Jim Brennan and interim coach Nick Dasovic are preparing the club for the upcoming drafts and 2011 season, but their futures are unknown. Anselmi said the new director will have complete decision-making authority over all soccer operations decisions, but will be advised to have an "open mind" on Cochrane, Brennan and Dasovic.
Ready to Launch: MLS Matchday 2010, The new official MLS iPhone app. It's FREE! Download it here!
