Los Angeles Football Club (LA FC), the Major League Soccer (MLS) team featuring Son Heung-min, has abruptly dismissed head coach Mark Dos Santos due to the team’s recent poor performance.
LA FC announced on its official website on Monday that after careful deliberation, they have decided to part ways with Coach Dos Santos. The club plans to announce an interim coaching setup soon while beginning the search for a new head coach.
John Thorrington, LA FC’s co-president and general manager, expressed gratitude for Dos Santos’ contributions, stating that Coach Dos Santos has dedicated a great deal to our club over the years. It appreciates his efforts, care, and contributions to LA FC. It wishes him and his family all the best in their future endeavors.
Dos Santos was appointed as LA FC’s third-ever head coach in December last year, succeeding Steve Cherundolo.
He had previously served as Cherundolo’s assistant, helping the team secure the 2022 Major League Soccer (MLS) Cup, Supporters’ Shield, and the 2023 U.S. Open Cup. However, his tenure as head coach lasted only about nine months.
The team’s recent struggles proved to be the deciding factor. On September 27, LA FC suffered a 0-1 away defeat to FC Dallas, leaving them with just one win, four losses, and five draws in their last ten MLS matches. Across all competitions, they’ve managed only two victories in their past 13 games.
LA FC currently sits in 6th place in the Western Conference with a record of 11 wins, 8 draws, and 9 losses, accumulating 41 points.
Son Heung-min has been a key figure in LA FC’s attack under Dos Santos’ leadership. Since joining LA FC last year, Son has been experiencing his first full season in MLS for the 2026 campaign, currently boasting 6 goals and 13 assists in regular season play.