Greg Vanney has stepped down from his position of Toronto FC head coach and technical director, the club announced Tuesday.
Vanney led Toronto to a treble in 2017, winning MLS Cup, the Supporters' Shield and Canadian Championship. He holds every coaching record in TFC history, including matches managed (250) and wins (112). He originally took charge during the 2014 season.
“I want to thank Mr. Tanenbaum, the board of directors and MLSE for their unwavering support for the past seven years. I recognize that I have been extremely fortunate to work for one of the best ownership groups in all of sports. I also want to thank Bill [Manning] and Ali [Curtis] for their support and leadership and most importantly the relationships we’ve developed over the years,” Vanney said in a club statement. “Thank you to all of the TFC staff and players for the incredible experiences we’ve shared together during this journey. I’m forever grateful to each of you. Lastly, to the TFC Fans. You’re truly amazing and the memories and emotions from our biggest nights together will be cherished.”
Toronto did not have the reputation they enjoy today prior to Vanney taking over as head coach. The club failed to make the playoffs in their first eight seasons in MLS, then broke that streak in Vanney's first full season. On top of the treble in 2017, Vanney helped guide the club to two more Canadian Championship titles and two more trips to MLS Cup.
They also got to the Concacaf Champions League final in 2018, losing in penalties. No MLS club has ever won that competition.
“I wish Greg nothing but the best in the future," said TFC president Bill Manning. “Back in 2014 he took over the head coach duties for a team that had never made the playoffs and turned them into an MLS champion. More than that, he is of high character and a great family man. I thank him for time well served for our club, his legacy here in Toronto is secure.”
Toronto will begin their search for a head coach immediately.
