Whitecaps confirm shock departure of head coach Vanni Sartini | OneFootball

The Vancouver Whitecaps have parted ways with head coach Vanni Sartini, the club announced on Monday.

Sartini was the Whitecaps boss since 2021 after working his way up as an assistant coach, and later a youth-team coach with the British Columbia outfit.

While the Italian manager has led the 'Caps to three straight Canadian Championships, Vancouver has also failed to advance past the first round of the MLS Cup Playoffs on three straight occasions.

According to MLS insider Tom Bogert, the club reportedly thought 'it was time to move in another direction' and will begin their search for a new head coach this winter.

"We are incredibly grateful to Vanni,” said Whitecaps sporting director and chief executive officer Axel Schuster.

“Since arriving in Vancouver six years ago, Vanni gave his all to this club and city. He embraced everything with passion and enjoyed tremendous success along the way. I am extremely thankful for our friendship and wish him all the best."

Meanwhile, Sartini was emotional in his statement to the fans after the decision, as the Italian was well-liked at BC Place Stadium.

“For the last three years and three months, it has been an absolute honour to be the head coach of Vancouver Whitecaps FC,” Sartini said.

"I will always be grateful to Axel Schuster and ownership for entrusting me to be the technical lead of this club in such an important time.

"I will also always remember with fondness the successes on the field, but what I will cherish the most is the memories of my relationship with the fans, players, staff, and the community. Vancouver will always have a special place in my heart and my wife’s heart. Andiamo!”

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