The Columbus Crew have terminated the contract of reserve-team coach Federico Higuaín after an alleged incident of inappropriate conduct during a match on August 23. The club’s general manager, Issa Tall, confirmed the dismissal in a statement, citing the need to prioritise the well-being of players and staff. The specifics of the incident remain undisclosed, but reports indicate Higuaín was involved in both verbal and physical misconduct, including sexist remarks and intimidation.

This development follows a pattern of high-profile coaching controversies in MLS, where allegations of toxic behaviour have repeatedly surfaced. Just last year, Bruce Arena faced a league investigation during his tenure at the New England Revolution after being placed on administrative leave for “insensitive language”—allegations that ultimately led to his resignation. Arena’s case, though never publicly detailed, underscored a broader issue within the league: a failure to address systemic misconduct in coaching environments.

The Columbus Crew’s decision comes at a time when MLS is under increased scrutiny over its handling of workplace culture. Reports suggest Higuaín’s behaviour mirrored that of other coaches hired under former Revolution head coach David Ernst, whose leadership style was criticised for fostering an environment where sexist and dismissive remarks were normalised. One source described Ernst’s approach as “cultural dynamics”—a justification that failed to account for the harm inflicted on female staff members.

The firing of Higuaín marks another chapter in MLS’s evolving response to misconduct, though the league’s track record remains inconsistent. While some clubs have taken decisive action, others have allowed toxic figures to slip through the cracks, often under the guise of “cultural fit” or “tough-love coaching.” The Crew’s move, however, signals a willingness to hold coaches accountable—though the full extent of Higuaín’s alleged actions and the league’s role in addressing them remains to be seen.