‘It was his dream’ – Tottenham confirm coaching departure as assistant takes first managerial role in MLS

Tottenham assistant manager Matt Wells has been announced as the new manager of MLS side Colorado Rapids.

Wells has never had a senior managerial role but has now joined Colorado to begin his career in charge on the touchline.

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The 37-year-old was first-team coach under Thomas Frank, but the club have now confirmed his departure.

And on Wells’ move, Frank said: “When Matt joined my staff, I knew it was his dream to become a head coach.

“While I would have loved to have kept him with us for longer, I would never stand in the way of him realising that dream.

“We are all delighted for Matt. He has contributed greatly to the Club over a long period of time.

“He’s an excellent coach, a great person and has a big future ahead of him. We wish him all the best.”

Colorado parted ways with ex-Manchester United coach Chris Armas in October and have been on the lookout for a new boss.

And earlier this month, they decided on Wells, who also worked under Ange Postecoglou at the Tottenham Hotspur Stadium.

He has further coaching experience working alongside Scott Parker at Fulham, Bournemouth and Club Brugge.

It is reported that Colorado interviewed multiple candidates for the role, including some from the MLS and abroad.

But Wells was ‘aligned’ with the club’s transfer business, with that being a key part of their cohesive approach.

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He has become one of the youngest coaches in the MLS, with Minnesota United boss Eric Ramsey the youngest at 34.

Frank has now lost one of his four first-team coaches just six months into his tenure in north London.

Wells is said to have had a hands-on approach in training under Postecoglou, before staying on at the club to join the Dane’s team.

Arsenal connection

Tottenham coach Wells has now joined Colorado Rapids, who have a huge connection to Arsenal off the pitch.

The MLS side are owned by Kroenke Sports & Entertainment – the same company in charge of the Gunners.

It means Wells is sure to be in contact with Stan Kroenke, as he moves from the American chief’s bitter rival.

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Colorado have further connections to Arsenal too, interviewing Jack Wilshere for the manager’s job in October 2023.

And on the pitch, they have Rob Holding among their ranks.

Ex-Gunners centre-back Holding has made six appearances for the club since joining from Crystal Palace in the summer.

How did Colorado do last season?

Colorado Rapids just missed out on a place in the MLS Cup Play-Offs last campaign, finishing 11th in the Western Conference.

They won 11 and lost 15 of their 34 games, drawing eight matches.

By missing out on the Play-Offs, it was decided that manager Armas would not be returning for the next season.

And that surely means that for Wells, his main aim in the dugout will be to get Colorado back into the postseason.