John Harkes became the face of FC Cincinnati as head coach of the expansion USL squad in 2016, but he won’t be around to lead the team into year two.
FC Cincinnati announced on Friday night that Harkes has been relieved of his duties as head coach, with assistant coach Alan Koch set to replace the former U.S. Men’s National Team captain.
The announcement came hours after news of Harkes’ departure first broke on Goal.com, which cited a power struggle between Harkes and FC Cincinnati president and general manager Jeff Berding.
Koch gives the team an experienced replacement, having coached Vancouver Whitecaps II during the 2016 USL season, and leading them to the playoffs. Koch was hired as assistant coach and director of scouting and analytics in December.
What do you think of this development? Surprised to see Harkes go? Think Koch is a good replacement? See Harkes resurfacing as a head coach soon?
Share your thoughts below.