DC United names Swiss coach René Weiler to replace Lesesne

WASHINGTON (AP) — D.C. United has picked René Weiler to be its new coach.

The team announced Wednesday that Weiler will take over once he receives a U.S. work permit. The 51-year-old Weiler, a native of Switzerland, served recently as coach and sporting director at Servette FC in the Swiss Super League. He’s also won the Belgian Pro League title and reached the Europa League quarterfinals with Anderlecht and guided Al Ahly to a Premier League championship in Egypt.

“D.C. United is a club with a proud history and a passionate fanbase,” Weiler said. “The foundation on site gives me confidence in what we can build. There’s still a lot of work ahead, but I’m fully committed to leading this club back to where it belongs, competing at the highest level in MLS.”

Kevin Flanagan will remain interim coach until Weiler arrives. D.C. United fired coach Troy Lesesne last week. United was 4-11-7 entering Wednesday night’s match against Charlotte.

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