What happened: The Portland Timbers are set to name Marti Cifuentes as their next head coach following a deep and thorough search, per reports. Thomas Christiansen, Panama's national team head coach, and Josh Wolff, formerly of Austin FC, were the other two finalists for the position.

Why it matters: The search spanned multiple continents and coaching backgrounds, from Christiansen's international post with Panama to Wolff's MLS experience at Austin FC. The Timbers also spoke with the same Jim Curtin who is set to lead Austin FC following the 2026 season among other candidates during the process.

What to watch: Watch for Portland's formal announcement confirming Cifuentes as head coach.