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Breaking News: Colorado Rapids Reportedly Tapping Tottenham's Assistant Coach Matt Wells as New Manager

In a surprising move, the Colorado Rapids are on the verge of appointing Tottenham Hotspur assistant Matt Wells as their next head coach, as reported by The Athletic. Learn more about Wells' coaching background and how this decision could shape the MLS landscape ahead of the 2026 season.

Breaking News: Colorado Rapids Reportedly Tapping Tottenham's Assistant Coach Matt Wells as New Manager

The Colorado Rapids are expected to appoint Tottenham Hotspur assistant Matt Wells as their next head coach, according to a report from The Athletic. Wells, 37, would be stepping into his first senior managerial role and would become one of the youngest head coaches in MLS when he arrives ahead of the 2026 season.Wells is currently part of Thomas Frank’s staff at Spurs and previously worked under Ange Postecoglou, where he took on significant responsibility during training sessions and match preparation.Before returning to North London, Wells served as an assistant to Scott Parker at Fulham, Bournemouth and Club Brugge - a stretch that included promotions and European experience. He also began his coaching career in Tottenham’s academy, where he coached the club’s Under-18 side.The Athletic reports that Colorado has been encouraged by Wells’ background and potential, believing he fits the club’s desire for a cohesive approach between coaching and recruitment as it looks to elevate a young core.The Rapids interviewed a wide range of candidates, both domestically and abroad, before settling on Wells, according to the report. The club places an emphasis on alignment between the head coach and roster construction, and Wells has been involved in early offseason planning.The squad includes several foundational pieces, led by U.S. international Paxten Aaronson, along with goalkeeper Zack Steffen, Rob Holding, Cole Bassett, Sam Vines, and Reggie Cannon.Brazilian forward Rafael Navarro - who has 27 goals and 10 assists over the last two seasons - could still depart this winter after Colorado rejected a significant bid from Fluminense in the summer. A move would open a Designated Player slot for the club.Colorado and Arsenal share ownership through Kroenke Sports & Entertainment, yet the Rapids appear set to appoint an assistant from Tottenham, one of Arsenal’s rivals. The club previously interviewed former Arsenal midfielder Jack Wilshere during a past coaching search.If Wells departs, it would mark the first notable change to Thomas Frank’s coaching staff since his arrival at Spurs. Wells is the only assistant from Postecoglou’s staff who remained in place and is viewed internally as a sharp tactical mind with inventive training methods.Add GOAL.com as a preferred source on Google to see more of our reportingAccording to The Athletic, Wells has long been seen as a young coach ready for his own project. A move to MLS would offer that opportunity, while signaling Colorado’s continued push toward a modern, aligned football identity under a first-time head coach.

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Matt Wells: From Tottenham Hotspur to the Colorado Rapids

At just 37 years old, Matt Wells is poised to take the leap into his first senior managerial role with the Colorado Rapids. His experience at Tottenham, Fulham, Bournemouth, and Club Brugge, combined with his time in the Tottenham academy, have groomed him for this opportunity.

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Colorado Rapids' Strategic Coaching Search

The Colorado Rapids conducted an extensive search for their new head coach, exploring candidates both locally and internationally. Matt Wells emerged as the frontrunner due to his alignment with the club's vision of integrating coaching and recruitment efforts for a successful future.

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Roster Dynamics and Potential Transfers

With a core of talented players like Paxten Aaronson, Zack Steffen, and Rob Holding, the Rapids are looking to build upon their foundation under Wells' leadership. The possible departure of Rafael Navarro may create room for new additions, potentially reshaping the team's dynamics.

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A Bold Move: Colorado's Relationship with Arsenal

The decision to appoint Matt Wells, a Tottenham assistant, despite shared ownership with Arsenal, demonstrates the Rapids' commitment to their footballing philosophy. This move adds intrigue to the MLS landscape and sets the stage for an exciting new chapter for Colorado.

Published on Dec 12, 2025