Joseph Mansueto on talent evaluation
From Chicago Fire FC Owner Joe Mansueto Sits Down with Kylen Mills · · Chicago Fire FC
“We went from about 80 candidates down to a shortlist of three — we wanted someone with a demonstrated record of success, someone plugged into the global soccer world, good leadership skills, and someone who had heart for Chicago.”
On , Joseph Mansueto, Founder & Executive Chairman of the Board at MORNINGSTAR INC, spoke about talent evaluation during Chicago Fire FC Owner Joe Mansueto Sits Down with Kylen Mills on Chicago Fire FC.
About Joseph Mansueto
Joe Mansueto, founder and executive chairman of Morningstar and owner of Chicago Fire FC and FC Lugano, has been active in soccer leadership. In January 2025, he introduced Gregg Berhalter as the Chicago Fire's new director of football and head coach. Mansueto said the club narrowed a pool of about 80 candidates to a shortlist of three before selecting Berhalter, whom he described as "one of the most talented sporting leaders" in North American soccer. He noted that Berhalter's preference was to combine the head coach and sporting director roles, and that the club made an exception to the typical MLS structure for him. Mansueto also stated the club aspires to build a soccer-specific stadium, as Soldier Field has limitations due to scheduling conflicts with the Chicago Bears and other events. In earlier interviews, Mansueto discussed the long-term nature of building a successful soccer organization, emphasizing investment in the club's academy and player development. He acknowledged fan disappointment over the team missing the playoffs and pledged to "double down" and work harder in the offseason. Mansueto also spoke about his ownership of FC Lugano, describing the two clubs as projects that give him satisfaction and noting that he aims to have them operate more like a single organization. He said he is open to expanding his commercial group and possibly buying another club if the right opportunity arises.