In a bold and strategic shift aimed at reinforcing their ambitions at the top of women’s football, Manchester City Women have officially named Danish national team manager Andree Jeglertz as their new head coach. The announcement, made by the club on Wednesday morning, marks a new chapter for one of England’s leading women’s teams, as they look to break new ground domestically and in Europe.
Jeglertz arrives in Manchester following a commendable stint as head coach of Denmark’s women’s national team, a role in which he guided the squad to qualification for UEFA Women’s EURO 2025 and restored competitive spirit in a team transitioning between generations. His appointment by Manchester City signals both intent and foresight—a calculated investment in a coach with a proven ability to develop talent, create tactical clarity, and deliver results under pressure.
A Tactical Mindset Meets Strategic Ambition
Manchester City have long been recognized as a club that blends elite-level resources with a commitment to style and long-term player development. With the departure of Gareth Taylor, who led City Women since 2020 and achieved relative success, including a Continental Cup victory and regular top-three WSL finishes, the club sought a new direction—one that prioritizes continental competitiveness, a stronger title challenge, and sustainable growth.
In Jeglertz, City have secured a coach known not only for tactical intelligence but also for fostering strong team cultures. His coaching philosophy, shaped by over two decades of experience, is built on intensity, technical precision, and dynamic pressing—ideals that align closely with City’s vision for the future.
Speaking in his first interview since being appointed, Jeglertz expressed excitement about the project ahead:
“Manchester City Women is a club with world-class potential. I am honored to take on this challenge and work with such talented players and staff. I believe in playing brave football, and I’m here to build something lasting that supporters can be proud of.”
Who Is Andree Jeglertz A Profile of the New Boss
Born in Sweden, Andree Jeglertz has built a diverse and successful coaching resume across Scandinavia and beyond. Though better known for his contributions to Swedish and Danish football, his experience and adaptability make him a unique fit for the English game.
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Early Coaching Career
Jeglertz started his managerial career in 2004 with Umeå IK, a powerhouse in Swedish women’s football at the time. Under his stewardship, Umeå dominated domestically and competed fiercely in the UEFA Women’s Champions League, reaching the final in 2008. This success laid the foundation for his recognition across Europe and earned him the Swedish Coach of the Year award in 2008.
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National Team Success with Finland and Denmark
His first national team appointment came with Finland, whom he led between 2010 and 2016. During his tenure, he introduced a new generation of players and qualified the team for UEFA Women’s EURO 2013—a significant achievement for the Nordic nation.
In 2022, he took over as head coach of Denmark Women, overseeing a generational shift while maintaining results. Denmark, under his leadership, qualified convincingly for UEFA Women’s EURO 2025 and rose steadily in FIFA rankings.
His tactical flexibility and calm demeanor on the touchline won praise from players and pundits alike. Jeglertz is known for creating organized but expressive teams, blending structure with flair—qualities that will be vital as City look to navigate the growing competitiveness of the Women’s Super League (WSL).
A Timely Appointment City’s Ambitions in the WSL and Europe
The decision to bring in a coach of Jeglertz’s caliber speaks volumes about Manchester City’s intentions. Though they’ve remained within touching distance of the WSL title in recent seasons, City have often fallen short at crucial junctures, particularly against Chelsea and Arsenal. Their record in Europe has also been underwhelming, with early exits in the UEFA Women’s Champions League qualifying rounds stalling momentum.
The club’s hierarchy, led by managing director Gavin Makel, has reiterated their aim to make City not just a domestic contender, but a genuine European force.
“Andree has a track record of building teams that play intelligent, competitive football,” said Makel. “His experience at both club and international level, especially in tournaments and European competition, will be invaluable. We’re entering an exciting new phase.”
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Squad Potential A Coach’s Playground
Jeglertz inherits a City squad brimming with talent. England internationals Chloe Kelly, Lauren Hemp, and Alex Greenwood provide leadership and quality, while Khadija ‘Bunny’ Shaw remains one of Europe’s most potent strikers. Add to that the midfield vision of Yui Hasegawa, the emerging brilliance of Jess Park, and the defensive composure of Leila Ouahabi, and Jeglertz has the tools to mold a title-winning side.
One of his key tasks will be reintegrating younger players into the fold—something he’s historically excelled at. His development of youth players like Denmark’s Sofie Svava and Finland’s Emma Koivisto (ironically now a City player) is testament to his long-term approach.
What Changes Might Jeglertz Bring
City’s playstyle under Taylor emphasized possession-based football with wide attacking play, exploiting the pace of Kelly and Hemp. While Jeglertz isn’t expected to overhaul the fundamentals, some tactical refinements are likely:
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Structured High Press
Jeglertz’s teams are known for disciplined high pressing, particularly in the middle third. Expect City to become more aggressive in ball recovery and less reliant on possession dominance alone.
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Fluid Midfield Triangles
In his national team setups, Jeglertz favored versatile midfielders who could drift between lines. With Hasegawa, Park, and potentially new signings, fans may see more interchange and vertical link play.
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Defensive Compactness
City have conceded crucial goals late in games—an issue Jeglertz will look to fix. A tighter back four and disciplined midfield shielding could reduce vulnerabilities, especially in away fixtures.
Reactions Across the Footballing World
The appointment has garnered attention from pundits and former players, many of whom believe it signals a positive shift not only for City, but for the WSL as a whole.
Rachel Yankey, former England international and now a BBC pundit, noted:
“This is a smart move. Andree has the international pedigree, and he’s a proven builder. City have always had the talent—they now have someone who can get more out of them in big games.”
Former Denmark captain Pernille Harder tweeted her support:
“Congrats to Andree. Great coach, fantastic person. Manchester City have made a clever appointment.”
The Road Ahead Key Dates and Expectations
Jeglertz will officially take charge at the beginning of preseason in late July, with friendlies planned against top European clubs including Lyon and Wolfsburg. These matches will be a litmus test for tactical implementation and squad readiness.
The WSL 2025/26 season kicks off in early September, with City expected to be in the title race from day one. Additionally, City will participate in the UEFA Women’s Champions League qualifiers in August—a significant early test for Jeglertz’s system and adaptability.
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Top Priorities for Jeglertz:
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- Establish clear tactical identity
- Ensure Champions League qualification
- Challenge Chelsea and Arsenal for WSL title
- Integrate emerging talents
- Maintain squad harmony and motivation
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