Minnesota United fire longtime manager Adrian Heath
Minnesota United have fired longtime manager Adrian Heath Friday.
Tom Bogert of The Athletic was the first to report Heath's firing. Heath, 62, is the only manager in MNUFC history. He'll be replaced for the final two games of the regular season by assistant Sean McAuley.
Minnesota United also announced they have parted ways with Technical Director Mark Watson. Watson joined MNUFC as an assistant under Heath in the club's inaugural season and moved up to Technical Director following the 2019 season.
Bogert said he is "shocked" Minnesota didn't let Heath finish out the season. Just two games remain and United still have a chance to make the playoffs for a fifth consecutive season.
“We are grateful to Adrian for his dedication to our club and for all that we have accomplished over the last seven seasons. This was a difficult decision, but we believe that the time is right to move in a new direction,” MNUFC CEO, Shari Ballard said in a statement on the team's website. “Whenever a club decides to make a coaching change, there is a tendency to focus only on the end of that coach’s tenure; however, the conclusion of Adrian’s time with MNUFC should not diminish his significant contributions to our club. His passion and hard work have been enormously impactful, and we thank him for all that he has done for MNUFC and for our community.”
Minnesota lost 5-1 to LAFC on Wednesday. The club are three points out of a playoff spot and they'll likely need to win the final two games to even have a shot at making the postseason.
Heath posted a 91-101-56 record across all competitions as manager of Minnesota United. The club made the playoffs in each of the last four seasons under Heath.
Minnesota United host the LA Galaxy Saturday for the final home game of the season. Kickoff is set for 7:30 p.m. at Allianz Field.
