BOS Nation FC GM Domènec Guasch Ready to Build Inaugural Roster
“There was no questions that this is one of the greatest cities"
Domènec Guasch is ready for the pressure of leading a team that will soon be part of Boston’s storied sports culture, all while attempting to create a legacy.
BOS Nation FC’s first general manager will begin his role in January and is looking to structure his team around development and community.
As the club’s first hire, Guasch’s first priority is finding a head of recruitment. Recent changes in the National Women’s Soccer League, such as the draft elimination and new free agency rules, will be a challenge for the expansion team, he admitted during a press conference on Tuesday.
“We’ll have to invest more resources in scouting,” he said. “We’ll have to filter more and be more precise on the talent that we want, and then… build something that’s very attractive to bring those players in.”
Guasch expects the initial roster to be made up of emerging talent that will need development, as well as more experienced players who will offer guidance for the others. He envisions the club’s star player as someone who “might not be the most talented,” but can serve as a mentor and show leadership on and off the field.
The general manager declined to comment on any prospects due to confidential information, but controlling owner Jennifer Epstein said they are expecting signings that have local and cultural connections to Boston.
In terms of tactics, Guasch plans to establish an attacking squad that plays a fast game while maintaining possession of the ball and creating chances in any given situation.
Guasch is not a total stranger to the city or the NWSL, describing Boston as a city that “checked the box from the very beginning.” He had the opportunity to visit the city a handful of times when he lived in the United States for six years and as a father, believes it is the best place in the country to raise a child.
“There was no questions that this is one of the greatest cities,” he said.
He followed the NWSL as a fan when he lived in the country, and was able to foster relationships with other NWSL general managers and owners when he worked with FC Barcelona Femení. This past summer he was involved in bringing Barça to California for a friendly with Bay FC.
The former head of women’s football at FC Barcelona learned to value team culture during his 13 years with the club and wants to instill a competitive aspect similar to what he saw at Barça.
“Every training counts, every action at every training counts,” he said. “[Competitiveness] is something that I believe at Barcelona [Femení] brought the team where it is currently.”
He also understands the importance of forming a connection with fans and sees it as an asset that may make Boston enticing for players. Epstein underscored fan support and said she hopes the club will embody a culture that fans will be proud to cheer on.
Epstein did not provide updates on BOS Nation’s recent push for branding feedback and did not confirm whether there would be a name change when asked.
Excited for the hire of Guasch and excited to see how the roster comes together. Bringing in players with connections to the region will be great, and I hope they can start a good academy system to prioritize youth development. Bringing in someone from Barca with that kind of ethos is hopefully a sign of good things to come