Angel City Football Club announced Thursday it had “mutually parted ways” with General Manager Angela Hucles Mangano.
Hucles Mangano joined Angel City as vice president of player development in 2021 and moved to GM in 2022, replacing Eni Aluko, who was initially hired as sporting director.
“Angela’s passion and commitment to Angel City runs deep,” ACFC co-founder and president Julie Uhrman said in a statement. “From day one, Angela has poured her heart into building something truly special. From volunteering at community events to securing our initial home at Cal Lutheran University to pulling off one of the most important trades in our history, securing the number one draft pick in 2023, Angela has been instrumental in setting the foundation for our culture and purpose that defines us today.”
Under Hucles Mangano, Angel City drafted Alyssa Thompson after acquiring the top overall pick in 2023 and signed teenaged stars Giselle Thompson, Kennedy Fuller and Casey Phair.
Assistant GM Matt Wade will serve as interim GM “while the club conducts a comprehensive search for a new GM.”
“As General Manager, she elevated our standards, secured the largest dedicated performance center in the NWSL and assembled a world-class leadership team that supports our players and staff in every way,” Uhrman said. “She has always led with integrity, putting the needs of our players and soccer staff above all else. Her contributions are immeasurable, her impact everlasting, and her passion unmatched. We are forever grateful.”
The move is the first big one under the new ownership group, led by Willow Bay and Bob Iger, who acquired a controlling interest in the club in July.
Hucles Mangano and Uhrman were suspended by the NWSL in October for salary cap violations.
Angel City came into the NWSL with lofty goals but has missed the playoffs in two of its three seasons, finishing in 12th place in the 14-team league in 2024.
Becki Tweed had her interim coach label removed before the start of last season. She moved into the role in 2023 after inaugural coach Freya Coombe was removed. Angel City played its best after the move, rallying for a playoff berth.
