From the Guardian · · 1m 50s
Jonas Eidevall on San Diego Wave and Arsenal lessons
Former Arsenal coach Jonas Eidevall shares how San Diego Wave’s calm culture and tactical focus helped them secure NWSL playoff quarter-final.
In brief
Former Arsenal coach Jonas Eidevall shares how San Diego Wave’s calm culture and tactical focus helped them secure NWSL playoff quarter-final. Jonas Eidevall’s San Diego Wave, second in NWSL, aim to win NWSL playoff quarter-final after rebuilding from player exodus. Originally reported by the Guardian.
San Diego Wave secure NWSL playoff quarter-final
San Diego Wave have secured a home playoff quarter-final in the NWSL, sitting second in the table with one point off top spot.
Eidevall’s calm coaching philosophy
Eidevall describes life in San Diego as relaxed with a slower pace, focusing on reading books, gym, and family time.
Five-game winning streak
The Wave have a five-game winning streak in the NWSL and sit second in the table, one point off top spot with two matches to go.
Player exodus in 2024
San Diego Wave faced player exodus in 2024 with Abby Dahlkemper selling to Bay FC, Alex Morgan retiring, and Jaedyn Shaw leaving for North Carolina Courage.
Rebuild strategy
Eidevall focused on building connections and passing out from the back during pre-season, developing young talent like Melanie Barcenas and Kimmi Ascanio.
Technical focus over athleticism
The Wave prioritized technical players over athletic ones, leveraging salary cap constraints to develop talent in a league dominated by speed.
NWSL vs. European leagues
Unlike European leagues, NWSL teams face longer losing spells and limited rosters, requiring creative coaching solutions for injuries and player shortages.
Arsenal lessons applied
Eidevall used his Arsenal experience to improve central connections, focusing on tactical adjustments for better player positioning.
Playoff ambitions
The Wave aim to create special memories at Snapdragon Stadium, targeting silverware with a belief they can go all the way in playoffs.
What matters most
Jonas Eidevall’s San Diego Wave, second in NWSL, aim to win NWSL playoff quarter-final after rebuilding from player exodus.
