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| Chicago Stars FC finally have a permanent coach head coach. Martin Sjögren will take over the team, joined by his longtime assistant Anders Jacobson, as lead assistant. Sjögren is currently head coach at Hammarby, and will finish out the Swedish Damallsvenskan league season before joining the Stars for the start of the 2026 NWSL season. |
Jacobson will join the team in the coming weeks and serve as interim head coach through the end of 2025. Current interim head coach, Ella Masar, will continue as an assistant coach following Jacobson’s arrival along with Karina Báez and goalkeeper coach, Brenton Saylor.
“We’re thrilled to welcome Martin Sjögren and Anders Jacobson to Chicago Stars FC,” said Chicago Stars general manager, Richard Feuz. “This appointment is the result of a rigorous, data-driven hiring process and deep discussions about our soccer identity, methodology and long-term vision. We were not just looking for top-level coaches but for people with exceptional human values, leaders who align with our ambition to build a high-performance environment rooted in trust, unity, and a true sense of family. Martin and Anders will bring a wealth of international experience and are fully committed to developing a clear, intelligent and forward-thinking style of play that emphasizes control, collective ambition and attacking football. Together with the rest of our staff, they will play a key role in shaping our culture and helping each player grow individually, as we work relentlessly to reach our sporting goals.”
“To get the opportunity to lead the Chicago Stars in the NWSL is something that I really look forward to,” said Sjögren. “I have got a very good impression of the owners and people working in the club. The future plans of the club that have been presented match my own ambition in building a sustainable and successful organization over time. I see lots of good opportunities to build something really interesting with the Stars. I look forward to arriving in Chicago to meet everyone and start work.”
Sjögren, has had a distinguished football career as player and coach. He previously served as Norwegian Women’s National Team head coach. He brings a wealth of experience and respect, along with proven results in Europe. This is a strong appointment for the Stars.
With a quarter of the season remaining, it makes sense for him to start next season, while having Jacobson have a run with the team for the remainder of this 2025 season. Jacobson should be a significant figure alongside Sjögren, so he can get a feel for the squad and assess the roster holes and strengths for next season.
Until Jacobson’s arrival, Ella Masar will continue serving as interim coach.
The Chicago Stars next take on Seattle Reign FC in Seattle August 18 at 9 p.m. CT. The team then returns to host the North Carolina Courage, August 22 at 7 p.m. CT, at SeatGeek Stadium
