Filipa Patão appointed as Boston Legacy FC head coach

According to ESPN, Filipa Patão has been officially appointed as the first head coach of Boston Legacy FC — an NWSL expansion team that will compete in the 2026 season.

The 36-year-old coach — who previously managed Benfica for the past five years — is committed to implementing an aggressive, possession-based style of play.

“My teams are very competitive, intense, and aggressive. I like to press and win the ball quickly because I like to have possession,” said Patão.

The former Benfica and Portugal national team player found a shared vision with Boston Legacy FC general manager, Domènec Guasch, particularly regarding the club’s focus on women’s football.

Under Patão’s leadership, Benfica achieved:

• Five consecutive league titles
• Qualification to UEFA Women’s Champions League quarter-finals in 2023-24

Boston Legacy FC can begin recruiting players from July 1, with significant financial support to build the team from scratch.