The biggest mistake Chris Armas made in the MLS is Back Tournament was trying to win it.
After starting the makeshift Orlando round robin with the biggest gust of wind behind the club’s sails in some time, Armas’ old habits have given Red Bulls an early retreat from the “bubble” at the Disney compound. In an opportunity to make bold new strokes to give both team and his own job standing key momentum at the beginning of a transition era, Armas remained chained to convention and paid the price.
Though boilerplate press conference quotes are not always the most valuable pieces of information (Armas nor any coach at this level will ever say their goal is to have a fair, prudently-timed elimination) his statements in the leadup to the tournament expressed confidence that, due the team’s pressing tendencies and high fitness levels, a short-term focus on winning could secure an achievable trophy for the club.