Today, the Portland Thorns officially announced the appointment of Robert Vilahamn as their new head coach - the seventh in the club's history.
It was first reported by ESPN's Jeff Kassouf on Saturday, February 28.
Sam Svilar
“Robert arrives with managerial experience at the highest levels of the women’s game, possesses a strong track record of helping players grow, and will strengthen our team environment by providing new global perspectives and insights” President and General Manager of Soccer Operations Jeff Agoos said. “His proactive, front-foot approach aligns with the identity and expectations of the Thorns and our supporters, and we look forward to welcoming him to Portland.”
“I’m very excited and thankful to be the new head coach of the Portland Thorns,” Vilahamn said. “The club has everything I look for, with a clear ambition to win, an incredible fan base and a strong environment for developing talented players. The NWSL is the most competitive league in the world, and coming to the U.S. to be part of it is a major step in my career. I’m really looking forward to starting this next chapter in Portland."
Vilahamn arrives after spending from 2023-25 as head coach of WSL's Tottenham Hotspur Women. He led the club to the Women's FA Cup final in his first season. In his final season the club struggled to an 11th place finish and were one spot away from relegation.
He also has major experience with BK Häcken (Sweden) as an assistant coach for the men's side in 2020 before taking over in 2021 as head coach of the women's team. Under his guidance the team earned appearances to the UEFA Women's Champions League qualification each season.
His impact includes promoting the game and beyond it. Vilahamn has a soccer academy in Uganda that emphasizes education and development opportunities. Also as part-owner of Gignation (digital platform), helped improved hiring and work conditions for substitute teachers in Sweden.
Robert Vilahamn will join the club pending receipt of his P1 visa.
