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John Herdman keeping busy while he looks for the next coaching job | TSN

In the article titled "John Herdman keeping busy while he looks for the next coaching job," published on TSN.ca on December 18, 2024, author Rick Westhead provides an in-depth look at the current professional status and personal endeavors of John Herdman, the former head coach of the Canadian men's national soccer team and Toronto FC. Herdman, a highly regarded figure in Canadian soccer, is navigating a transitional period in his career after stepping down from his role with Toronto FC in November 2024. The piece explores Herdman’s reflections on his past achievements, his approach to finding the right next opportunity, and his ongoing commitment to personal growth and community impact during this interim phase.

John Herdman’s tenure with the Canadian men’s national team is a significant focal point of the article. Over his nearly six-year stint starting in 2018, Herdman transformed the program, leading the team to qualify for the 2022 FIFA World Cup in Qatar—the first time Canada had reached the men’s World Cup since 1986. This achievement marked a historic milestone for Canadian soccer, elevating the nation’s standing on the global stage. Herdman’s strategic vision and ability to foster a cohesive team culture were instrumental in this success, as he guided a talented group of young players, including stars like Alphonso Davies and Jonathan David, to compete against some of the world’s best teams. Despite not advancing past the group stage in Qatar, Herdman’s impact on Canadian soccer is widely recognized as a turning point for the sport in the country.

Following his national team success, Herdman took on a new challenge in August 2023 by joining Toronto FC, a Major League Soccer (MLS) club, as head coach. However, his time with the team was short-lived and less successful compared to his national team tenure. Toronto FC struggled under his leadership, finishing the 2024 season with a disappointing record of 11 wins, 19 losses, and 4 draws, missing the playoffs. Herdman and the club mutually agreed to part ways on November 4, 2024, with Herdman citing the need for a fresh start for both himself and the organization. The article notes that Herdman took accountability for the team’s underperformance, acknowledging that despite his efforts to implement a new playing style and culture, the results did not meet expectations. This candid reflection highlights Herdman’s self-awareness and willingness to learn from setbacks.

Since leaving Toronto FC, Herdman has been taking a deliberate approach to his career, focusing on finding the “right fit” for his next coaching role rather than rushing into a new position. The article emphasizes that Herdman is not in a hurry, as he is financially secure and prioritizes aligning with a club or organization that shares his values and vision for soccer. He has been linked to potential opportunities in Europe, including interest from clubs in England’s Championship league and other international markets. Herdman’s experience and reputation make him an attractive candidate for various roles, but he remains selective, seeking a position where he can make a meaningful impact. He expressed a desire to work in an environment that allows him to build something sustainable, much like he did with the Canadian national team.

While exploring future coaching opportunities, Herdman is keeping himself occupied with a range of personal and professional activities. One notable endeavor is his involvement in philanthropy and community work. The article details how Herdman and his family have been active in supporting charitable causes, including initiatives to help underprivileged youth through soccer programs. This commitment to giving back reflects Herdman’s broader philosophy of using sport as a tool for positive social change, a value that has been evident throughout his coaching career. Additionally, Herdman has been focusing on self-improvement during this downtime, engaging in professional development by studying other coaches, analyzing tactical trends in soccer, and reflecting on his own methods to refine his approach for future roles.

Herdman also shared insights into the emotional and mental challenges of being between jobs. He acknowledged that the transition period can be unsettling for someone accustomed to the high-pressure, fast-paced environment of professional coaching. However, he views this time as an opportunity for growth, emphasizing the importance of staying patient and trusting the process. Herdman’s resilience and optimism shine through in his comments, as he remains confident that the right opportunity will come at the right time. He also expressed gratitude for the support of his family and close network, which has helped him maintain balance during this uncertain phase.

The article delves into Herdman’s coaching philosophy, which has been a cornerstone of his success. Known for his meticulous preparation, emphasis on player development, and ability to inspire teams, Herdman has a reputation as a “players’ coach” who builds strong relationships with his athletes. His approach often involves fostering a sense of belief and unity within a squad, a strategy that proved effective during Canada’s World Cup qualification campaign. Herdman’s adaptability is another key trait, as he has successfully coached at various levels, including women’s soccer (he previously led the Canadian women’s national team to bronze medals at the 2012 and 2016 Olympics) and now men’s professional soccer. This versatility makes him a unique candidate in the coaching market, capable of taking on diverse challenges.

Westhead also touches on the broader context of Herdman’s career within Canadian soccer. His departure from Toronto FC comes at a time when the sport is experiencing significant growth in Canada, partly due to the momentum generated by the men’s national team’s World Cup appearance and the upcoming co-hosting of the 2026 FIFA World Cup alongside the United States and Mexico. Herdman’s contributions have played a pivotal role in this resurgence, and his next move will likely be closely watched by fans and stakeholders in the Canadian soccer community. There is speculation about whether he might return to international coaching or continue pursuing club opportunities, with some suggesting a potential return to Europe, where he began his coaching career in England.

In conclusion, the TSN article paints a comprehensive picture of John Herdman as a coach in transition, balancing patience with ambition as he seeks his next role. It highlights his storied achievements with the Canadian national team, his challenges at Toronto FC, and his thoughtful approach to career planning. Herdman’s dedication to personal growth, community impact, and tactical innovation underscores his status as one of the most respected figures in Canadian soccer. As he navigates this interim period, Herdman remains a compelling figure whose next chapter will undoubtedly shape the future of the sport, whether in Canada or on the international stage. The piece ultimately portrays Herdman as a man of resilience and vision, poised to make a significant impact wherever he lands next. (Word count: 1,052)

Read the Full TSN Article at:
[ https://www.tsn.ca/soccer/john-herdman-keeping-busy-while-he-looks-for-the-next-coaching-job-1.2322333 ]