Marc Dos Santos Begins LAFC Duties, Backs Son Heung-min as False Nine

Marc Dos Santos, newly appointed head coach of LAFC, officially began his duties on December 15 with an introductory press conference at BMO Stadium.

In an interview with The Korea Daily, Dos Santos spoke highly of Son Heung-min, describing him as “a prepared winner who thinks only about the team and winning championships.” He added, “At this moment, Son is most comfortable playing as a false nine.”

Dos Santos has been a long-time member of the LAFC coaching staff, serving as an assistant coach for several seasons. Last year, he worked closely alongside former head coach Steve Cherundolo and was directly involved in guiding Son through his transition and adaptation to the team.

In modern soccer, the false nine operates as a central attacker who frequently drops into midfield, facilitating combination play, dribbling, and wide movement to create scoring opportunities. Dos Santos outlined his vision for Son’s role, saying, “We want him operating between the lines and in pocket spaces, helping create chances for our wingers. Our goal is to allow him to continue developing in the position where he feels most at ease.”

Dos Santos also revealed that he reached out to Son immediately after accepting the head coaching role. “I sent him a message telling him that taking on this job with him on the team is a great privilege for me as a coach,” he said. Reflecting on last season, Dos Santos recalled that Son joined LAFC “with incredible energy, like Taz from the cartoon,” adding that “from training sessions and matches to his day-to-day interactions with teammates, he has made a positive impact in every aspect.”

When asked about the possibility of Son wearing the captain’s armband, Dos Santos offered a measured response. “Son is already a leader without the armband,” he said. “He knows when to speak up, delivers the right message at the right moment, and has a strong understanding of what the team needs.”

Dos Santos also signaled adjustments within the coaching staff and tactical framework. “When you move from assistant coach to head coach, keeping everything the same can make a team too comfortable,” he explained. “We felt certain changes were necessary to provide new stimuli and maintain competitiveness.” He added that discussions regarding coaching staff adjustments are ongoing with the club.

Tactically, Dos Santos intends to preserve LAFC’s attacking identity while raising its level of execution. “Our strength lies in controlling the ball quickly and attacking vertically when space opens up behind the opponent,” he said. “However, when teams defend deep and deny that space, we need more precise buildup and movement. That’s an area we must improve next season.”

He emphasized intensity as the cornerstone of his philosophy. “Tactics can change depending on the situation, but intensity and effort throughout the match are non-negotiable,” Dos Santos said. “From the training ground to matchday, it’s essential that the entire organization shares the same standards.” He also credited LAFC’s home form to supporter influence, noting that “the rhythm and intensity created by our fans are central to the club’s identity.”

Dos Santos becomes the third head coach in LAFC history and described the club as “a place that feels like home.” He joined LAFC as an assistant coach during the club’s inaugural season in 2018, later serving as head coach of the Vancouver Whitecaps from November 2018 to August 2021 before returning to LAFC in 2022.

“I’m extremely excited to begin a new chapter with LAFC,” Dos Santos said. “This club provides an environment where everyone—on and off the field—moves toward a shared direction and purpose.” He specifically highlighted the 3252 supporter group, calling their presence “a defining element of the club’s identity.”

Addressing criticism from some fans on social media regarding his appointment, Dos Santos responded calmly. “Being a head coach inevitably comes with evaluation and pressure,” he said. “I don’t dwell on reactions on social media. I focus on the team, the players, and the immediate tasks in front of us.” He also disclosed that he declined head coaching offers from other MLS clubs. “LAFC’s competitiveness, pressure, and winning culture were decisive factors,” he said. “Being in this role is a privilege.”

About Marc Dos Santos

A native of Montreal, Quebec, Marc Dos Santos began his coaching career in 2007 with his hometown club, the Montreal Impact, and is now regarded as an 18-year veteran coach. His career includes extensive experience in Brazil with clubs such as Primeira Camisa, Palmeiras, and Desportivo Brasil, where he served as a coach, youth academy coordinator, and technical director. In MLS, he has also worked as an assistant coach with Sporting Kansas City. Reflecting his international background, Dos Santos is fluent in English, French, Portuguese, and Spanish.

BY KYEONGJUN KIM [kim.kyeongjun1@koreadaily.com]