Fast forward and Pfannenstiel found himself looking for candidates for a historic hire around the same time a fifth-year MLS assistant was impressively leading the New York Red Bulls to the 2020 playoffs as an interim coach. The Red Bulls were following a script penned with recognizable handwriting. It was time for paths to cross again.

What do we stand for? Pfannenstiel said this week after announcing the 44-year-old Carnell as Citys first head coach. Who are we as a club? We are hungry. We are motivated. Nobody really knows what to expect from us. But we do have a clear plan and a clear playing style. That aggressive approach, in a positive way, that high intensity, pressing style. We want to stand for a new generation of football.

I believe we need to have a coach represent us. Hungry. Motivated. Still on the way up, to develop. That is why Bradley was, for me, the absolute choice. He is very hungry. He wants to prove himself. He did a lot of great work in New York and he really was ready for a next step, ready for a chance.

Hes like a bull. Hes ready to go out and work. Hes hardworking. Hes honest. Hes clear in his mind. Thats how we want to be seen in the community, and as a club in MLS.

If youre thinking, wow, thats a lot of pressure on Carnell, you would be correct. But pressure is sounding like this teams trademark. A pledge to apply it is a big reason Carnell ascended to the top of the list Pfannenstiel said included hundreds of candidates. A belief in its power is a big reason Carnell sidestepped what City president and CEO Carolyn Kindle-Betz described as interest from several other clubs.

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BenFred: If the play of St. Louis City SC lives up to coach Carnell's vision, our new MLS team will be easy to cheer - STLtoday.com