ALBUQUERQUE, N.M. — In a sport where coaching tenures can be measured in months instead of years, New Mexico United is making a different statement.
The club announced Wednesday it has signed head coach Dennis Sanchez to a contract extension through the end of the 2028 season, signaling confidence in the coach who has helped guide one of the most successful stretches in franchise history.
For a club still chasing its first championship trophy, the move is less about rewarding past success than securing the architect of what United hopes comes next.
Sanchez arrived in Albuquerque ahead of the 2025 season and quickly delivered results. Under his leadership, New Mexico United has won 33 matches and reached the first conference final in club history, establishing the team as a contender in the USL Championship.
His 33 victories rank second-most among head coaches in franchise history, trailing only former United coach Troy Lesesne.
But club leadership says the extension was about more than wins and losses.
Sporting Director Itamar Keinan credited Sanchez with building a culture that has translated into success both on and off the field.
“In the time since he joined, he showed what a great coach he is, not only by leading the group to a conference final but also by creating a great environment for our players and a winning culture,” Keinan said in a statement.
That sentiment was echoed by owner and CEO Peter Trevisani, who said Sanchez’s vision aligns with the identity the club has tried to establish since its inaugural season.
“From the beginning, New Mexico United has been about believing we can build something here that people might tell us isn’t possible,” Trevisani said. “Dennis shares that belief.”
For Sanchez, the extension represents a vote of confidence from a club and fanbase that have embraced him since his arrival.
“La Familia, I am so excited to continue on with you guys,” Sanchez said. “I have felt the love since day one and it’s truly an honor to represent our club and this community.”
The announcement comes as United continues its pursuit of a championship this season. While trophies remain the ultimate measure of success, Wednesday’s move suggests the organization believes its future is best built with Sanchez on the touchline.
