Four years after he became the most interesting man in MLS, ChelÃs has returned to the US.
Jose Luis Sanchez Sola, better known as simply ChelÃs, was named the first-ever head coach of incoming USL club Las Vegas Lights FC on Monday. The former Chivas USA manager will make history as the first person to manage in with clubs in the first and second divisions of pro soccer in both the US and Mexico.
Known for his outsized personality and brutal honesty, Chelis had a brief but memorable stint in MLS as manager of Chivas USA in 2013. He lasted just 12 games with the club, compiling a 3-7-2 regular season record before being dismissed in May 2013.
While he was only on the job for six months, Chelis left an indelible impression on the league, quickly becoming one of the most colorful coaches in MLS history. The former Puebla, Tecos and Veracruz manager was eminently quotable, delivering more than a few gems to the media about the league even before he started with Chivas USA. He was profiled in a series of MLS Insider videos during his brief stay in the league; watch Part I above, click here for Part II.
Chelis will start with Las Vegas immediately while simultaneously completing his contract obligations for popular ESPN Deportes show Futbol Picante. USL’s 33rd team, Lights FC will begin play at Cashman Field next season.
