Portland Timbers appoint Spanish coach Marti Cifuentes

Portland Timbers announced that Spanish coach Marti Cifuentes will become the club's new head coach. He signed a three‑year contract that runs through the 2028‑29 season, taking over from Phil Neville, who departed in late May. Interim coach Jack Cassidy will remain in his role until Cifuentes arrives.

Cifuentes, 44, brings more than two decades of experience from clubs in Spain, Sweden, Denmark, Norway and most recently Leicester City in England’s EFL Championship. Owner Merritt Paulson praised his analytical and curious approach, while Cifuentes expressed excitement about contributing to MLS as the sport grows ahead of the 2026 World Cup. The Timbers are 15‑5‑8, sitting 11th in the Western Conference and three points behind the playoff line.