Newly appointed New England Revolution head coach Caleb Porter has confidence that the Eastern Conference team can compete for trophies in his first season at the helm.
Porter was brought onboard at Gillette Stadium to help continue the Revs success they’ve enjoyed in recent seasons which includes a 2021 Supporters’ Shield triumph as well as developing top talents like Matt Turner and Djordje Petrovic, who’ve both earned transfers to the Premier League.
Porter knows how to win despite his last coaching job going awry with Columbus Crew, as he guided them to MLS Cup glory in 2020 as well as leading Portland Timbers to a championship in 2015. With winning experience in the past, Porter firmly believes the Revs won’t need a transition period to compete from the jump in his tenure.
“It feels great to be here. Obviously, there’s a lot of work ahead, but I’m extremely excited to hit the ground running, and I think we can hit the ground running. When we look at the club – the strong foundation that’s in place, the roster … it’s only a couple of years after a Supporters’ Shield win – that’s a big allure for me,” he said in a release.
Although former head coach Bruce Arena brought New England great success, he wasn’t able to steer them toward an MLS Cup title- and Porter is looking to make history by becoming the first coach to lead them to that feat.
“I’m a coach that likes to win, and I want to win an MLS Cup in New England – the first ever. Through the interview process, I was immediately pleased and connected, meeting the people – Curt Onalfo and I were immediately very much aligned from a vision and values standpoint; I had the opportunity to meet with Brian Bilello, and the Kraft Family, as well,” he said.
The expectations will be high for Porter to deliver to the New England faithful, who have won just two trophies in their existence as one of MLS’ original clubs since 1996. But Porter will look to make changes after stepping aside from the touchline for one year.
“I can’t wait to start. I had a year off – time to reflect, and learn and grow – and wanted to hopefully have the opportunity to take on a new project,” Porter added.
“I didn’t know where I’d end up but as soon as New England was open and available, and I had the opportunity to interview, it was my number one choice. When you look at the openings that were there, it was the best club available in my opinion. I feel lucky and honored to have this job – it’s not something I take lightly. I’m going to work tirelessly to make the fans happy.”
