He is the most experienced coach hired by D.C. United since its founding in 1996, with a diverse coaching background across countries like Germany, Japan, Belgium, and Egypt, and has won six titles in his career.

D.C. United has appointed René Weiler as its new head coach, aiming to turn around a team that has missed the MLS playoffs for six consecutive seasons.

Weiler, 51, brings over 20 years of managerial experience, including successful stints at Anderlecht, where he won the Belgian championship and reached the UEFA Europa League quarterfinals, and at Servette, leading them to a Swiss Cup victory and a third-place finish.

Until his work visa is approved, interim coach Kevin Flanagan will continue managing the team.

Weiler replaces Troy Lesesne, who was released after a loss in the U.S. Open Cup on July 10, 2025.

The club's General Manager Ally Mackay praised Weiler for his tactical acumen, talent development skills, and ability to build an organized, aggressive team, indicating he is the right leader for the club's future.

Weiler has signed a guaranteed contract until 2027, with a starting salary of $1.4 million that escalates to $1.85 million, making it the largest coaching deal in the club's history.

Currently, D.C. United stands at 4-11-7 and is ranked 13th out of 15 in the Eastern Conference, with only 18 goals scored and 41 conceded, highlighting their challenging position.

D.C. United's appointment of Weiler was officially announced on July 16, 2025, marking a new chapter for the struggling franchise.

The team is also looking to strengthen its roster by potentially making new player acquisitions during the MLS Secondary Transfer Window from July 24 to August 21, 2025, as they currently have only one designated player, Christian Benteke, due to financial constraints.

Weiler expressed confidence in the team's foundation and his commitment to restoring the club's competitive stature, which has declined since their last major trophy over a decade ago.

He also aims to lead D.C. United back to the highest level in MLS, leveraging his extensive experience and recent success in winning the Swiss Cup with Servette.