Vlatko Andonovski has been hired as the chief soccer officer of the Chicago Stars, the NWSL club announced Thursday. The move comes just 10 days after his tenure as sporting director of the Kansas City Current ended via mutual contract termination.
Who is Vlatko Andonovski?
Andonovski is a highly respected figure in women's soccer. As a head coach, he won two NWSL Coach of the Year awards and two NWSL championships. He has earned consistent praise for his ability to build trust with players and staff—a crucial trait in a league that has faced historical allegations of misconduct by coaches.
Why the Chicago Stars Need Andonovski
The Stars are currently in last place, having won just five games this season. They also finished last in 2025. The club has struggled with leadership turnover: general manager Richard Feuz was fired earlier this year, and head coach Martin Sjögren was let go in August. Andonovski's hiring signals a new chapter.
Off-Field Challenges
The team plays at Northwestern University in Evanston, Illinois, and will continue there in 2027 while seeking a new downtown stadium. An ownership consortium led by Chicago Cubs co-owner Laura Ricketts bought the team in 2023 at a $35.5 million valuation.
Andonovski's Impact on the NWSL
His return to the league so quickly underscores his reputation. The Current's terse statement calling him "not the right fit" raised eyebrows, but his track record speaks volumes. Andonovski is expected to oversee all soccer operations, from player recruitment to coaching staff.
| Role | Achievements |
|---|---|
| Head Coach (NWSL) | 2x NWSL Champion, 2x Coach of the Year |
| Sporting Director (KC Current) | Contract terminated after 10 days |
| Chief Soccer Officer (Chicago Stars) | New role, tasked with turnaround |
- Andonovski brings championship pedigree to a struggling club.
- The Stars have finished last in consecutive seasons.
- His ability to build trust is vital for player morale.
- The club seeks stability on and off the field.
What's Next for the Stars?
With Andonovski at the helm, the Stars aim to climb out of the basement. His first tasks will include evaluating the roster and hiring a permanent head coach. Fans hope his winning mentality will translate to the front office.