The Vlatko Andonovski conundrum – Equalizer Soccer

Photo Credit: Daniel Bartel-Imagn Images & Jenna Watson-USA TODAY Sports

In the space of two years, perceptions of Vlatko Andonovski’s coaching ability have fluctuated wildly. In the summer of 2023, he oversaw the earliest World Cup exit in United States women’s national team history. In the present, he leads a Kansas City Current side standing head and shoulders above the rest of the National Women’s Soccer League.

How could a coach be so successful in one job, having fallen flat in another? It’s a conundrum, but not one lacking for theories.

The main difference between national team and club is the time in training. Where club coaches can work with talent on a day-to-day, week-to-week basis, there are long spells where national team coaches don’t interface with their players. This is a big reason why many coaches — particularly those who enjoy having full autonomy and developing players — steer clear of the international arena: they would be driven mad without regular on-field contact and the chance to impose themselves on their teams.

It’s true that some coaches just don’t thrive in the international environment. But time on the training ground isn’t the only reason.