CF Montreal Parts Ways with Head Coach Marco Donadel
CF Montreal has announced the dismissal of head coach Marco Donadel, effective immediately, after a disastrous beginning to the MLS season. The decision follows a 2-1 defeat to the Philadelphia Union on Saturday, which left the club tied for last place in the league standings with a mere three points.
Interim Leadership and Coaching Changes
Philippe Eullaffroy, who returned to the club as an assistant coach earlier this year after founding its academy in 2010, will take over as interim head coach. In a brief statement, the club confirmed that Eullaffroy will lead the team until a permanent replacement is hired. Additionally, assistants Jacopo Falanga and Lorenzo Pinzauti have also been let go, leaving Eullaffroy with a reduced staff as Montreal prepares to host the New York Red Bulls next weekend.
Struggles Under Donadel's Tenure
Donadel's time at CF Montreal was marked by significant challenges. He managed only seven wins in 42 games across all competitions, with an additional victory on penalties against Toronto FC in the Canadian Championship. This firing continues a pattern of short managerial stints for the club; since joining MLS in 2012, no coach has lasted more than 92 matches, a record held by Mauro Biello. The last three managers, including Donadel, have each been in charge for 40 games or fewer, following the departure of Wilfried Nancy to the Columbus Crew.
Broader Club Issues and Season Performance
CF Montreal has faced ongoing difficulties in competing within MLS's evolving financial landscape under longtime owner Joey Saputo. The 2026 offseason was particularly weak, with few impactful player signings after missing the playoffs in 2025. Key additions included defender Brayan Vera, acquired for $1.2 million in general allocation money from Real Salt Lake, and loan signings Iván Jaime from Porto and Frankie Amaya from Tolouca. On the field, the team conceded 19 goals in their first seven matches, with their sole win being a 3-0 victory over the New York Red Bulls.
This poor start echoes last season's struggles under former coach Laurent Courtois, who was fired in March 2025 and replaced by Donadel. Montreal finished tied for second-worst in the league in 2025, highlighting persistent performance issues that have now led to another coaching change.
