PHOENIX – Phoenix Rising FC announced on Thursday it had parted ways with interim Head Coach Diego Gómez.

Gómez joined Phoenix Rising this past February as an assistant coach and was appointed interim Head Coach upon the departure of Danny Stone from the club on June 29. Gómez led the side to a 6-8-3 record over the remainder of the regular season – earning Coach of the Week honors in Week 32 as the side earned consecutive wins on the road against New Mexico United and Oakland Roots SC – as the side finished eighth in the Western Conference.

Phoenix’s title defense came to an end last Sunday night when it fell 2-1 to New Mexico United in the Western Conference Quarterfinals of the 2024 USL Championship Playoffs presented by Terminix.

“Diego stepped into a challenging role this season, and we're incredibly grateful for his leadership and dedication to Phoenix Rising,” said Rising President Bobby Dulle. “He brought stability to the team during a critical time, and his impact has been significant both on and off the field. After careful consideration, we believe the best path forward is to look externally for a head coach who can lead us into the next phase of success for this club. We have immense respect for Diego and appreciate all he's done for Phoenix Rising.”