Canada announce former Man United boss Casey Stoney as new head coach | OneFootball

Casey Stoney has been unveiled as the new head coach of the Canadian National Team. The 130-time capped former England international succeeds Bev Priestman, who was dismissed in the wake of the ‘drone-gate’ scandal that engulfed Canada’s Olympic Games campaign last year.

Stoney enjoyed a glittering playing career with the likes of Chelsea, Arsenal and Liverpool. She lifted 12 trophies domestically, as well as appearing at three World Cups with the Lionesses. She also skippered Team GB at the London 2012 Olympics. In February 2009, she made her steps into coaching, taking on the role of player-manager at Chelsea until the end of that season.

Casey Stoney chapters with Man United and San Diego Wave

Following her retirement in 2018, Stoney was named as part of Phil Neville’s coaching staff in the England setup. Later that year, the former defender was appointed as Manchester United manager following their reformation. Guiding them to the Women’s Championship title in their first season, Stoney established United in the WSL before leaving in 2021. She was later named the inaugural head coach of San Diego Wave, ahead of their NWSL debut in 2022.

The Wave made the playoffs in their first season, losing to eventual champions Portland Thorns. They won the 2023 NWSL Shield as the side with the best regular season record. However, they fell at the first hurdle of the playoffs, losing to OL Reign. Stoney was dismissed in June 2024, with San Diego sat ninth in the league.

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Speaking to Canada Soccer about her new role, Stoney said: “I am honoured to join Canada Soccer as the Head Coach of the Women’s National Team. Canada has a proud tradition in women’s football, and I am excited to work with such a talented group of players.”

Stoney will be tasked with ensuring Canada are more competitive at the 2027 World Cup in Brazil. They exited at the group stage in Australia and New Zealand in 2023. First up however, is three matches at the Pinatar Cup in Spain in February.

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