For Minnesota United, the biggest wait is officially over.

The Loons announced Monday the hiring of Eric Ramsay to be the club’s second permanent MLS head coach, stepping in after Adrian Heath was fired in October after nearly seven seasons.

Ramsay, the outgoing Manchester United assistant coach, signed a contract with MNUFC on Thursday. The club did not share Monday the length of Ramsay’s multi-year deal.

“After an extensive search that included dozens of impressive domestic and international candidates, we are confident that Eric Ramsay is the best choice to lead our club,” Chief Soccer Officer Khaled El-Ahmad said in a statement. “His experience working with top-level players, coaches and sporting staff at both the club and international level — as well as his alignment in playing style and development philosophy — all fit with the vision we have for the future of MNUFC.”

But in a continuing theme for MNUFC over these past four-plus months, another wait has begun: When will Ramsay arrive in Minnesota to start his new gig?

Ramsey, a Welshman, has begun the process to obtain his work visa and is expected to be on the sideline for the Manchester derby against Manchester City on Sunday.

That means interim head coach Cameron Knowles will remain on the sideline here for at least the Loons’ home opener against MLS Cup champion Columbus Crew at 1 p.m. Saturday.

The Pioneer Press understands there is optimism that Ramsay might arrive in time for the Orlando City road game on March 9, but it’s more likely he could be on the sideline for the Los Angeles FC match at Allianz Field on March 16. His first game coming at home would produce a higher level of supporter excitement.

The Loons have a bye week on March 23-24, with an away game at Philadelphia Union on March 30. That would be longer runway for Ramsey to introduce himself to the players and start working with the team, but it doesn’t appear to be a preferred timeline.

Like all immigration processes, delays could arise that are outside the control of MNUFC and Ramsey. So, in the end, it will be wait and see.

In the meantime, Ramsay is eager to get started with the Loons.

“I’m incredibly excited to be joining a club with such a strong football culture, a fanatic fan base and a brilliant infrastructure,” Ramsay in a statement. “I’ve spoken to a lot of the club’s staff throughout the process and you can’t help but feel everyone’s passion for moving the club forward. There is a really exciting pathway for the future of the club and I’m looking forward to playing my role in realizing that vision. I thank the club for putting its faith in me and I hope it’s the start of another successful period for everyone connected with Minnesota United.”

Long winter

Key MNUFC comings and goings:

Oct. 5 — Adrian Heath fired as manager

Nov. 8 — Khaled El-Ahmad hired as Chief Soccer Officer

Dec. 5 — Sean McAuley retained as interim head coach

Jan. 5 — Cameron Knowles elevated to interim head coach

Feb. 26 — Eric Ramsay hired as permanent head coach

Related Articles

Loons call on a fountain of youth to help in season-opening victory

Loons at Austin FC: Keys to the match, projected starting XI and a prediction

Season preview: Can Loons withstand leadership and tactic changes to contend in 2024?

Q&A: Loons star Emanuel Reynoso addresses preseason setbacks, shares 2024 outlook

Eric Ramsay signs contract to be Minnesota United head coach