Chivas USA Coach Preki Leaves Club by "Mutual Agreement"

The announcement today came after several days of rumors and speculation that Preki could be fired and just days after he had failed to guide the club past the first round of the MLS playoffs for the third consecutive year.

Despite assurances earlier this season that the club didn't want to disrupt the team's slow "building" process under Preki, many fans believed the club was stagnating and change was needed. The contract of the 2007 MLS Coach of the Year was up at year's end.

Indeed, Preki's team seemed to have peaked and even the late-season infusion of several players couldn't save Chivas USA's season - or his job.

"Preki has brought a great deal of success to this team, and is an important part of our history," said Chivas USA Vice President of Soccer Operations Stephen Hamilton. "His dedication and expertise have led us to the playoffs in each of his seasons here, and we owe him our thanks for all he has given the club. We wish him the very best as he moves into the next phase of his coaching career."

Assistant Coach Carlos Llamos takes over until the club names a new head coach.

From the Chivas USA press release:

In his three years as Head Coach of Chivas USA, Preki posted a career record of 40-29-21 (W-L-T) and a winning percentage of .561, the top mark in club history. The team captured the top spot in the Western Conference in the 2007 regular season, with a 15-7-8 record, missing out on the Supporters Shield by just two points.

Preki's parting words:

"It has been an honor to be a part of the Chivas USA family for the last four years," said Preki. "In my time here I have grown as a coach, and I am proud of our accomplishments. While I am excited to take the next step in my career, I will always have good memories of my time with Chivas USA."

Former Galaxy, Chivas USA and Bayern Munich assistant coach Martin Vazquez has been mentioned as a possible successor.