Michael Nsien: Former Nigeria U23 defender appointed as U.S.A U19 coach

The 42-year-old will now handle the Stars and Stripes, replacing Marko Mitrovic who was promoted to the Olympic team

The United States Soccer Federation has confirmed the appointment of Michael Nsien as the country’s new U19 handler.

Nsien was saddled with this responsibility following the promotion of Marko Mitrovic to the U.S. U23 squad.

https://twitter.com/michaelnsien/status/1699516439449731138

Prior to this new role, the retired defender was in charge of U.S 16 team – leading Baby Nats to a 2-1 triumph over Nigeria in his last outing in June.

Sporting Director Matt Crocker is delighted with this development tagging that the 42-year-old and Mitrovic as an ‘important part of the country’s men’s programme.

“We couldn't be more excited to have Marko and Michael continue to be an important part of our men’s program as both of these teams serve as crucial steps in the National Team pathway,” he said.

“We’re also confident that Michael is ready to lead our U-19 age group, a critical level for our young players aiming to take the next step in their careers for club and country.”

Born in Oklahoma to parents of Nigerian background, he played college soccer at the University of Dayton between 1999 and 2003 – scoring nine goals in 73 appearances.

Before drawing the curtain on his career, the former defender represented LA Galaxy, Portland Timbers as well as UAE Pro-League side Al-Shaab.

On the international scene, he was a member of the Nigeria U23 side that failed to qualify for the 2004 Olympics Games staged in Athens.

Since going into administration, the Nigerian-American holds all UEFA’s Pro coaching licenses, with his peers describing him as a trailblazer for black coaches.