Importance Score: 52 / 100 🔵
Domenec Guasch Trades Barcelona Roots for Boston Legacy FC Challenge
What persuades a lifelong Barcelona supporter, who spent his childhood watching matches at Camp Nou with his grandfather, developed as a player in the renowned La Masia academy, and ultimately led their highly successful women’s team, to relocate to the United States? For Domenec Guasch, the former head of women’s football management at FC Barcelona, a single phone call ignited the move to spearhead a new chapter for the nascent National Women’s Soccer League (NWSL) club, Boston Legacy FC.
Seeking a New Horizon
“For several years, I harbored a desire to venture beyond my comfort zone in Barcelona,” Guasch stated from his new Boston office. “Although my role there was consistently demanding and fulfilling, I recognized a point where I needed a change, to evolve and mature professionally.”
Guasch elaborated, “Remaining in Europe felt limiting; the challenges would have been similar, largely centered around the Champions League.”
Attraction of the NWSL and Boston
In Boston, Guasch assumes comprehensive responsibility, overseeing team development, data analytics, soccer operations, and administrative functions. He perceived a distinct advantage in the US that eluded most European clubs.
“The allure of the NWSL was the opportunity to contribute to a dedicated women’s club, bolstered by significant investment, robust infrastructure, and a professional ethos,” he explained. Having previously lived in the US, Guasch added, “In my view, Boston is the most European-like city in the USA, culturally and in its people. My wife, son, and I envisioned a fulfilling life here.”
vCard.red is a free platform for creating a mobile-friendly digital business cards. You can easily create a vCard and generate a QR code for it, allowing others to scan and save your contact details instantly.
The platform allows you to display contact information, social media links, services, and products all in one shareable link. Optional features include appointment scheduling, WhatsApp-based storefronts, media galleries, and custom design options.
Building Boston Legacy FC
Originally known as BOS Nation FC, Boston Legacy FC boasts an all-female ownership group, further strengthened by investors such as Olympic gymnast Aly Raisman and actress Elizabeth Banks.
Extensive discussions with the ownership played a crucial role in Guasch’s decision to embark on this new endeavor.
“The process involved lengthy conversations with the ownership, getting acquainted with them and their vision,” Guasch recounted. “Their vision for the project was clear: to build a team that resonates with the city and its inhabitants, fostering local pride and global appeal.”
The Unique Boston Opportunity
Guasch acknowledged prior talks with other NWSL franchises, with one negotiation progressing considerably, yet none evoked the same resonance as Boston. Ultimately, the prospect of creating something “distinct” proved irresistible.
“[Barcelona] was my dream occupation,” he reflected. “Growing up, my grandfather instilled a love for the club in me during stadium visits. I still cherish his seat. Aspiring to play for Barcelona was a childhood dream, and transitioning into this career, it became the ultimate professional aspiration.”
“I experienced significant growth at Barcelona, starting as an academy coach, culminating in a role with a world-leading team – a truly enriching journey. After 14 years, time advances, families expand. Delaying departure would have made it increasingly difficult.”
Embracing New Challenges
“I thrive on challenges, though at Barcelona, many became repetitive. Even after multiple Champions League victories, the enthusiasm wanes. I sought the ideal project, and while I could have remained for another decade, this opportunity arose, aligning with my family’s aspirations, making it the opportune moment.”
Vision for Boston’s Future
Regarding his aspirations for Boston, Guasch stated, “My fulfillment comes from societal impact and industry sustainability, filling stadiums. We will have our dedicated stadium and training facility, exclusive to our team.”
“It began with a simple call, initially met with lukewarm interest. However, within months, the decision became clear as each facet of the project felt right. Despite the allure of a third consecutive Champions League title, the chance to build a team from the ground up was unparalleled.”
Building from the Ground Up
With Boston Legacy FC’s NWSL debut a year away, Guasch is tasked with assembling a head coach, coaching and support staff, and a complete player roster.
His first key appointment is Scotsman Ed Gallagher, joining as head of recruitment from Brighton & Hove Albion. Guasch anticipates further crucial hires by summer, ensuring adequate time for team cohesion before the 2026 season.
“There is a substantial amount to accomplish in a compressed timeframe,” he admitted with a smile. “In football, time is often limited, so I consider this a fortunate position. I have a year to build and ensure we achieve milestones at every stage.”
Coaching Search and European Influence
“The coaching appointment is our longest process, aiming to secure someone by summer; we are in the final phase. We’ve initiated the process for operational and performance staff. Much of my current focus is on interviewing directors for each area, aiming to have them in place by summer, allowing them ample time for team recruitment.”
“[Gallagher] is crucial for player and staff recruitment. I intend to prioritize assembling the best possible backroom staff, collaborating with Ed, focusing on the short-term and the European market. We are exploring opportunities to sign and loan players, considering available prospects as the transfer market progresses.”
The NWSL is increasingly embracing European influences, evident in Boston’s Spanish General Manager and Scottish head of recruitment. Guasch hinted at a potential European direction for further hires.
NWSL’s Global Evolution
“The rise of women’s football in Europe has spurred the NWSL’s evolution,” he observed. “As a long-standing league, it was initially transitional, largely player-driven. However, with growth in Spain, England, and elsewhere, the US national team and NWSL clubs have had to adapt and evolve. This has broadened perspectives, prompting questions about improvement and global best practices.”
“At Barcelona, we focused on identifying missing pieces and areas for improvement, prioritizing youth development and then external recruitment if necessary. This situation is different, but our approach remains consistent.
“We have a clear playing style in mind: attacking, possession-based football, with specific player profiles. While not aiming for Barcelona’s exact level initially, we are seeking similar player profiles and aiming to cultivate a comparable style of play.”