Former Man United and Leeds coach Chris Armas – dubbed Ted Lasso in the Premier League – returns to MLS as he’s hired by the Colorado Rapids

Former Manchester United and Leeds coach Chris Armas has secured a return to MLS as head coach of the Colorado Rapids.

Armas, who was brutally dubbed Ted Lasso during his time in the Premier League, last worked in the US’s top flight back in 2021, when he lasted just six months as head coach of Toronto FC.

After being fired that summer, the former USMNT midfielder moved to Old Trafford to join Ralf Rangnick‘s backroom team at United later that year, before enjoying a brief spell as a coach and co-interim manager for Leeds at the start of 2023.

Eight months after failing to earn a place on new Leeds boss Javi Gracia’s backroom staff, Armas has landed his first managerial post for two years with Colorado.

The Rapids confirmed him as their new head coach on Friday, marking the 10th managerial appointment in their 28-year history.

Armas moved to Old Trafford to join Ralf Rangnick ‘s backroom team at United late in 2021

He also enjoyed a brief spell as a coach and co-interim manager for Leeds at the start of 2023

‘I’m incredibly proud and excited to take the role as the head coach of the Colorado Rapids,’ Armas said. ‘This is a club that has had success in the recent past and KSE is an organization that has a strong track record of winning championships.

‘Throughout the process I was struck by the desire of the organization to return to the playoffs and compete for trophies. I’m as hungry as ever to deliver this success to our fans and our club. 

‘I’ve always been eager to implement my style of play at a club that plays and trains at altitude. This advantage, along with high energy, attacking and entertaining football, can help our team and fans return to home field dominance. 

‘I’m thrilled to have the opportunity to take the reins and to work with the entire staff to get the club back into the playoffs and ultimately to bring another MLS Cup to Colorado.’ 

During his coaching spell at United, Armas became famous for wearing AirPods on the touchline in order to communicate with fellow coach Ewan Sharp.

Red Devils stars are said to have likened him to Ted Lasso, the fictional American soccer coach in the popular comedy-drama TV series, after becoming frustrated that Rangnick left most of his coaching sessions to Armas.

The 51-year-old’s previous MLS stints did not go to plan, having amassed a disappointing record of 33 wins in 71 games during his two-year spell with the New York Red Bulls.

Four months after being fired by the Red Bulls he took the reins in Toronto, winning just two games out of 15 before losing his job once more.  

During his spell at United, Armas became famous for wearing AirPods on the touchline

As a player, Armas spent nine years with the Chicago Fire, scoring 12 goals in 273 appearances, having previously enjoyed two years with LA Galaxy.

‘We’re delighted to begin a new chapter at the Colorado Rapids with Chris as our head coach,’ said Colorado Rapids President Pádraig Smith. 

‘Chris brings a wealth of experience across the highest levels of the game, both as a player and as a coach. He is a natural leader who demands the highest standards from his players and understands what it takes to build a positive, and winning culture. 

‘We believe he has the personal qualities, experience and shared vision to help us achieve the success we seek.’