Hammarby IF’s head coach, Martin Sjögren, is on the brink of a significant new chapter in his coaching career. Reports from ESPN confirm that he is set to take the helm as the permanent head coach for Chicago Stars FC, starting in January 2025, right after the conclusion of the Damallsvenskan season.
At 48 years old, Sjögren has a wealth of experience in women’s soccer. He took charge of Hammarby in January 2024 and previously coached the Norway women’s national team from 2016 to 2022. His time with Norway was marked by challenges, including failing to advance beyond the group stage in both the 2017 and 2022 UEFA Women’s Euros and a disappointing quarterfinal exit against England during the 2019 FIFA Women’s World Cup. The national team also did not qualify for the 2021 Olympics, leaving many fans restless and seeking answers.
During his coaching tenure with Norway, Sjögren faced a particularly turbulent phase, notably marked by the departure of star player Ada Hegerberg from the national team. After a heartbreaking exit from Euro 2017, Hegerberg stepped back for nearly five years, a move that some speculated was partly influenced by her experiences under Sjögren’s leadership. This period highlighted the complexities and pressures surrounding national team coaching.
This context enriches the narrative surrounding Sjögren’s move to the Stars. His recent stint at Hammarby, however, saw a resurgence; the team clinched third place in the 2024 Damallsvenskan, securing a spot in the UEFA Women’s Champions League. Although Hammarby exited the group stage after facing tough competition from powerhouses like FC Barcelona and Manchester City, this accomplishment promises a solid foundation for Sjögren’s coaching skills heading into a new league environment.
Sjögren’s upcoming appointment comes amidst significant changes at Chicago Stars FC. Since the firing of Rory Dames in November 2021 due to serious allegations of abuse, the Stars have cycled through multiple head coaches. Ella Masar currently serves as interim coach, but with the team’s recent struggles, sitting 13th in the NWSL table with only eight points from 15 matches, the expectation for Sjögren is not only to revitalize the team but also to re-establish trust and stability within the organization.
Transitioning to a new team, especially amid such a tumultuous period, can be daunting. Sjögren’s ability to connect with players and staff, foster a winning mentality, and cultivate a spirit of resilience will be essential as he looks to rebuild and elevate the Stars in one of the most competitive leagues in women’s soccer.
As fans, we know the highs and lows of sports can be rollercoasters filled with hope and disappointment. For Chicago Stars FC, the arrival of Martin Sjögren is a pivotal moment that could reshape their path forward. It’s a journey filled with challenges, but also potential for a brighter future both on and off the pitch.
Image Source: Norges Fotballforbund @ YouTube
