San Diego Wave name former Arsenal manager Jonas Eidevall new head coach

The former Gunners boss signed a three-year contract with the NWSL side on Tuesday

• WHAT HAPPENED?

  Jonas Eidevall has been hired as the next head coach of the San Diego Wave. The NWSL side have been searching for a permanent head coach since Casey Stoney's departure in the middle of the 2024 campaign that ultimately saw Landon Donovan arrive as an interim caretaker through the end of the season.

  The former Arsenal manager resigned from his post with the Gunners in October.

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  THE BIGGER PICTURE

  Eidevall departed the WSL side after just seven games into the 2024-25 season, despite signing a new three-year deal in October, 2023. With the Gunners, the Swede won the League Cup in both 2023 and 2024.

  The Wave, meanwhile, are undergoing a revamp after USWNT legend Alex Morgan announced her retirement in 2024 and saw club president Jill Ellis depart for a role with FIFA in December.

  “This is a club with a clear vision for success, both on and off the field, and I am grateful for the trust placed in me to lead this talented team by the Leichtman-Levine Family and (sporting director) Camille Ashton,” Eidevall said. “San Diego is a city with passionate fans and a vibrant futbol culture, and I’m eager to contribute to building a winning legacy here.”

• WHAT THE WAVE SAID

  “Jonas’s arrival marks the beginning of a new era for San Diego Wave FC,” said owner Lauren Leichtman. “His leadership, vision, and track record of success make him an excellent fit for this role to guide our club forward. We are excited for this next chapter and are confident Jonas will build a culture within the team that not only competes for championships but also inspires our fans and represents the values of San Diego.”

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  WHAT NEXT FOR THE WAVE?

  The 2025 NWSL season begins in March, with Eidevall taking over the program after a 10th place finish in 2024 that saw them miss out on the playoffs.