With Chivas USA nowhere near the playoff hunt, head coach José Luis “El Guero” Real recently indicated he’ll focus on integrating youth into the lineup the last three months to prepare them for next season, but his own status for next year remains up in the air.
Real’s responsibilities with Chivas USA run through the end of this season.
“It’s very clear that I’m here as part of a larger project,” Real told MLSsoccer.com. “I’m not here as a normal head coach and it’s not my intention to be the Chivas USA head coach forever, but I’d obviously like [to return] because it’s a league that helps everyone progress. My responsibility is for the end of the season, when I’ll return to Guadalajara.”
Real has a 1-5-3 mark since replacing José Luis “El Chelís” Sánchez Solá in late May. Chelís went 3-7-5 in his three months with the club.
With 12 matches remaining, including Sunday's against Colorado (11 pm ET; UniMas) Chivas USA sit 16 points back of the fifth and final playoff spot in the Western Conference.
“I’m happy and know there’s a future here,” Real said. “I know the team will close the season well and that it will be undoubtedly different next year. But, for the moment, I’m concerned with my responsibilities. Once my contract is up, I’ll have to return to Guadalajara.”
Real said discussions about his future won’t likely take place until after the season.
