Jesse Marsch was an American soccer coach and former player who had a successful career in Major League Soccer (MLS) and the United States national team. He won three league titles and four U.S. Open Cup titles as a midfielder for D.C. United, Chicago Fire, and Chivas USA. He also coached Montreal Impact, New York Red Bulls, Red Bull Salzburg, and RB Leipzig, winning several trophies and awards.
Marsch joined Leeds United in February 2022, after the club sacked Marcelo Bielsa following a 4-0 defeat to Tottenham. He signed a three-and-a-half-year deal and became the first American to manage in the Premier League. He inherited a squad that was struggling near the bottom of the table and had lost key players such as Raphinha and Kalvin Phillips.
Marsch tried to implement his own style of play, which was based on high pressing, quick transitions, and narrow formations. However, he failed to get consistent results or performances from his team, and faced criticism from some fans and pundits for his tactics and communication. He also had to deal with injuries to important players such as Patrick Bamford, Stuart Dallas, and Adam Forshaw.
Marsch’s tenure at Leeds lasted less than a year, as he was sacked on Monday, February 7, 2023, after a 1-0 loss to Nottingham Forest. Leeds were 17th in the league, level on points with the relegation zone, and had won only three of their 20 games under Marsch. The club thanked him for his time and said they hoped to appoint a new manager as soon as possible.
- Jesse Marsch appointed Leeds United Head Coach – Read more
- Jesse Marsch succeeds Marcelo Bielsa as head coach – Read more
- Jesse Marsch confirmed as the new head coach of Leeds United – Read more
- Jesse Marsch appointed Leeds United head coach – Read more
- Club Statement Jesse Marsch – Read more
- Jesse Marsch fired by Leeds after nearly a year in charge – Read more