League: MLS Sport: Soccer Country: United States Category: Scores & Results

Portland Timbers introduce Marti Cifuentes as new head coach

Yahoo Sports • 1 min read • Latest: Aug 19, 2026, 3:13 AM

Last updated Aug 19, 2026

Portland Timbers introduce Marti Cifuentes as new head coach

Summary

Marti Cifuentes was introduced as the new head coach of the Portland Timbers at a press conference on August 19, 2026. Timbers owner Merritt Paulson acknowledged the team’s struggles in recent MLS seasons, noting this is the third head coach since 2023. Cifuentes emphasized his excitement about coaching in a 'soccer city' and plans to implement an attacking style. Paulson mentioned enhanced data analysis will play a key role in the team's future strategy.

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By the Numbers

•Merritt Paulson discusses team’s recent underperformance.
•Cifuentes attracted to the team's vibrant soccer culture.
•Timbers prepare for a new coaching strategy focused on attack.
•Cifuentes emphasizes the importance of data in coaching decisions.
•This is the Timbers' third coaching change since 2023.

Latest Updates

3:13 AMYahoo Sports — Portland Timbers host introductory press conference for new head coach Marti Cifuentes

What they're saying

"
PORTLAND, Ore. (KOIN) — Portland Timbers owner Merritt Paulson was not shying away from the team’s lack of results in the MLS the past few years at Marti Cifuentes’ introductory presser. “I want to take some culpability myself. The standard has not been up to what it needs to be,” said Paulson, who stated that […]
— Yahoo Sports

Related Teams & Leagues

Portland Timbers MLS Soccer

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Yahoo SportsAug 19, 2026, 3:13 AM
Portland Timbers host introductory press conference for new head coach Marti Cifuentes
PORTLAND, Ore. (KOIN) — Portland Timbers owner Merritt Paulson was not shying away from the team’s lack of results in the MLS the past few years at Marti Cifuentes’ introductory presser. “I want to take some culpability myself. The standard has not been up to what it needs to be,” said Paulson, who stated that […]

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