Swiss manager brings international pedigree and trophy experience to blacks and reds
Washington, DC (July 16, 2025) – DC United has agreed to appoint René Weiler, a global experienced Swiss manager, to become the club's next head coach, pending a US work permit. Kevin Flanagan will continue to serve as interim head coach until Weiler arrives.
“DC United is a club with a proud history and passionate fan base.” DC co-head coach René Weiler. “The foundation of the field gives me confidence in what we can build. There is still a lot of work to do, but I'm totally committed to bringing the club back to where it belongs to compete at the highest level in MLS.”
With over 24 years of coaching experience and 6 major trophys, Weiler became the most experienced and accomplished head coach in DC United history and joined MLS to become one of the league’s most decorated managers.
As a manager, Weiler won the league titles in Belgium, Egypt and Switzerland and won the top three in five different domestic matches. His resume includes the quarterfinals of the UEFA Europa League with Anderlecht and a league title in Egypt along with Al Ahly, one of Africa’s most successful clubs. Weiler, with his tactical structure, emphasizes the importance of player development and the ability to deliver results in a high-pressure environment, brings a validated approach.
“René is a tactician with a game style that implements clear discipline and adapts to the system to enable the best of his players.” Ally Mackay, General Manager and Chief Football Officer. “He built an organized team that has no offensiveness and has a purpose in offensiveness. This style reflects the identity we have worked to build at DC United. His experience developing talent and demanding high standards make him an ideal leader in guiding the program. We are pleased to welcome him to the club and fully support his vision for this team.”
Weiler, 51, was born in Winterthur, Switzerland and has spent more than two decades of club management in Europe, Asia and Africa. He led RSC Anderlecht to a spot in the 2016-17 Belgian Professional League Championship and Europa League quarterfinals. In Egypt, he brought Al Ahly SC to the 2019-20 Premier League title match, with 21 wins, 8 draws and 1 loss in 30 games.
Recently, Weiler has served as the dual role of head coach and sports director of the Swiss Premier League Servette FC. During his two-year tenure (2023-2024), he played a central role in the long-term roster program and youth development, helping to stabilize the club.
Weiler's coaching journey also includes matches between FC Luzern and FC Aarau, as well as a spell of success in Germany, he took 1. Fcnürnberg's score in Germany, at 2. Bundesliga finished second. He also manages the top Japanese flying Kashima Antlers, adding to his global experience and adaptability in football culture.
As a player, Weiler is a midfielder for FC Winterthur and FC Aarau of Switzerland's top flight. He won the Swiss National Championship with Aarau in 1992-93 and won two blocks for the Swiss national team before transitioning to coaching.
After the visa process is completed, more details about Weiler's arrival will be announced.