Former Man United and Leeds coach Chris Armas – dubbed Ted Lasso in the Premier League – returns to MLS as he’s hired by the Colorado Rapids

Former Manchester United and Leeds coach Chris Armas has secured a return to MLS as head coach of the Colorado Rapids.

Armas, who was rudely dubbed Ted Lasso during his time in the Premier League, last worked in the US top flight in 2021 when he lasted just six months as head coach of Toronto FC.

After being sacked that summer, the former USMNT midfielder moved to Old Trafford to join Ralf Rangnick’s backroom team at United later that year, before enjoying a short spell as coach and co-interim manager for Leeds in early 2023 .

Eight months after failing to secure a place in new Leeds boss Javi Gracia’s backroom staff, Armas has been given his first managerial role in two years at Colorado.

The Rapids confirmed him as their new head coach on Friday, marking the 10th managerial appointment in their 28-year history.

Armas moved to Old Trafford at the end of 2021 to join Ralf Rangnick’s backroom team at United

He also enjoyed a short spell as coach and co-interim manager for Leeds in early 2023.

“I am incredibly proud and excited to take on the role as head coach of the Colorado Rapids,” said Armas. “This is a club that has had success in the recent past and KSE is an organization with a strong track record of winning championships.

“Throughout the process, I was struck by the organization’s desire to return to the play-offs and compete for trophies. I am as hungry as ever to deliver this success to our fans and our club.

‘I have always wanted to implement my playing style at a club that plays and trains at altitude. This advantage, together with high energy, attacking and entertaining football, can help our team and our fans return to dominance on the home pitch.

“I’m thrilled to have the opportunity to take the reins and work with the entire staff to get the club back into the playoffs and ultimately bring another MLS Cup to Colorado.”

During his coaching spell at United, Armas became famous for wearing AirPods on the touchline to communicate with fellow coach Ewan Sharp.

The Red Devils stars are said to have compared him to Ted Lasso, the fictional American football coach in the hit comedy-drama TV series, after becoming frustrated with Rangnick leaving most of his coaching sessions to Armas.

The 51-year-old’s previous MLS stints did not go to plan after he posted a disappointing record of 33 wins in 71 games during his two-year spell with the New York Red Bulls.

Four months after being fired by the Red Bulls, he took over in Toronto, where he won just two of 15 games before losing his job again.

During his time at United, Armas became famous for wearing AirPods on the sidelines

As a player, Armas spent nine years with the Chicago Fire, scoring 12 goals in 273 appearances, having previously spent two years with LA Galaxy.

“We are excited to start a new chapter at the Colorado Rapids with Chris as our head coach,” said Colorado Rapids President Pádraig Smith.

“Chris brings a wealth of experience at the highest levels of the game, both as a player and as a coach. He is a natural leader who demands the highest standards from his players and understands what it takes to build a positive and winning culture.

“We believe he has the personal qualities, experience and shared vision to help us achieve the success we seek.”