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By IVES GALARCEP
The Colorado Rapids exceeded expectations in 2013, in large part to the leadership provided by head coach Oscar Pareja. If the Rapids are going to stay on their upward arc, they will have to do so with a different man in charge.
Pareja has stepped down as head coach of the Colorado Rapids on Friday, Goal.com reported on Saturday. New York Red Bulls assistant Robin Fraser is reportedly the favorite to replace Pareja, with former Portland Timbers head coach John Spencer also a contender.
The move comes after a highly-publicized courtship of Pareja by FC Dallas, but Pareja’s move does not free him to coach the club he once played for. Pareja had one more year left on his contract with Colorado, meaning he won’t be able to coach another team this year unless that team reaches an agreement with the Rapids.
The Rapids have yet to address the report publicly, but a decision on a new coach is expected to be made this week before the MLS Combine, which begins on Friday.
What do you think of this development? Disappointed to see Pareja leave Colorado? See him winding up with FC Dallas? Who would you hire if you were the Rapids?
Share your thoughts below.