NWSL's North Carolina Courage Abruptly Fire Coach Sean Nahas

The North Carolina Courage have fired head coach Sean Nahas after nearly four years with the team, with franchise sporting director Ceri Bowley citing a "multitude of factors" behind the decision but refusing to provide specifics. Nahas became interim coach in 2021 following the firing of Paul Riley amid sexual misconduct allegations and was made permanent head coach in 2022, leading the team to playoff appearances in 2023 and 2024. Despite a disappointing 2025 season start with a 5-5-4 record and ninth-place standing, the team’s performance alone did not clearly justify the dismissal, as the Courage remain close to playoff contention. Bowley emphasized that the change was necessary to uphold the club's high standards and maintain a professional, competitive environment. Nahas was reportedly at practice and posted a photo with his staff shortly before the termination announcement, and the timing of the firing caught fans and reporters by surprise. The Courage continue to focus on team development and will face the Houston Dash next, with the club committed to achieving success on and off the pitch amid ongoing efforts to protect players from misconduct.