Tottenham assistant coach Matt Wells is reportedly close to being appointed as the new head coach of Colorado Rapids, according to talkSPORT.
The 37-year-old has yet to take charge of a senior team but is poised to begin his managerial career in MLS. Currently part of Thomas Frank’s first-team coaching staff at Spurs, Wells is said to be on the verge of making the move to Colorado.
The Rapids have been searching for a new manager since dismissing former Manchester United coach Chris Armas in October, and Wells now appears to be their preferred choice. He previously worked under Ange Postecoglou at Tottenham and has also gained experience alongside Scott Parker at Fulham, Bournemouth and Club Brugge.
Colorado are believed to have interviewed several candidates from both MLS and overseas, but Wells stood out due to his alignment with the club’s recruitment strategy, a key element of their long-term plan.
If appointed, Wells would become one of the youngest head coaches in MLS, with only Minnesota United’s Eric Ramsey younger at 34. His departure would also see Thomas Frank lose one of his four senior coaches just six months into his spell in north London.
Arsenal links
Colorado Rapids have strong off-field ties to Arsenal, as both clubs are owned by Kroenke Sports & Entertainment. This would place Wells under contract with Stan Kroenke after leaving one of the American owner’s fiercest rivals.
The Rapids have previously explored other Arsenal links too, having interviewed Jack Wilshere for the role in October 2023. On the pitch, former Gunners defender Rob Holding is currently part of the squad, making six appearances since joining from Crystal Palace in the summer.
Last season’s performance
Colorado narrowly missed out on the MLS Cup Play-Offs last season, finishing 11th in the Western Conference. They recorded 11 wins, 15 defeats and eight draws across their 34 matches.
That failure to reach the postseason led to Armas’ exit, meaning Wells’ primary objective—should his appointment be confirmed—will be to guide the Rapids back into the play-offs. Inter Miami were crowned champions this year, with Lionel Messi, Luis Suárez and their teammates lifting the trophy last weekend.
