In a surprising turn of events, the New York Cosmos have announced the appointment of Davide Corte as their new manager, with the news breaking live on CBS Sports Golazo’s Morning Footy earlier today, Thursday, September 4, 2025. This move signals a bold attempt to revive the storied franchise, which last competed in 1985 under the leadership of Ray Klivecka during its indoor soccer phase in the Major Indoor Soccer League (MISL). The timing of this announcement could not be more strategic, aligning with a burgeoning surge in U.S. soccer interest ahead of the 2026 FIFA World Cup.
A Historic Club’s New Chapter
The New York Cosmos, once a powerhouse of American soccer with legends like Pelé gracing their roster in the 1970s, faded from competitive play after the collapse of the North American Soccer League (NASL). Their last notable stint under Klivecka saw a successful 24-6 season, though it ended in a semifinal loss to the Vancouver Whitecaps, followed by his dismissal and a subsequent $100,000 lawsuit against the club. Since then, the Cosmos have existed more as a nostalgic brand, with recent efforts to return to the field, including plans to play at historic Hinchliffe Stadium in Paterson, NJ, in 2026.
The appointment of Davide Corte represents a fresh start. Unlike Klivecka, whose coaching resume included a 39-30 record with the Buffalo Stallions and playoff appearances, Corte’s background remains less documented. This lack of a clear coaching pedigree—distinguishing him from the retired Colombian footballer David Cortés (born 1992)—suggests the Cosmos are taking a calculated risk. Whether this move will innovate the club’s legacy or falter under the weight of its history remains to be seen.
Strategic Timing Amid Soccer’s Rising Tide
The announcement comes at a pivotal moment for soccer in the United States. With the 2026 FIFA World Cup set to unfold across the U.S., Canada, and Mexico, interest in the sport is skyrocketing. Recent reports from Brand Finance highlight the growing familiarity of the English Premier League among U.S. fans, rivaling Major League Soccer (MLS), while clubs like Inter Miami lead as the strongest domestic soccer brand. The Galaxy’s recent qualification for the 2026 Champions Cup further underscores this momentum, providing a fertile ground for the Cosmos to reassert their relevance.
The Cosmos’ decision to unveil Corte’s appointment live on Morning Footy—a platform known for engaging soccer enthusiasts—indicates a savvy marketing play. As the club prepares for its 2026 return, this move could capitalize on the heightened national and global viewership, potentially drawing new fans while rekindling the passion of longtime supporters.
What Lies Ahead?
Davide Corte’s tenure will be closely watched as the Cosmos aim to rebuild. The club’s recent hiring of Jose Angulo as scout and manager of youth partnerships in July 2025—highlighted by his USL Pro MVP credentials and deep ties to North Jersey’s soccer community—suggests a focus on grassroots development. Corte’s integration into this framework will be critical, especially as the team looks to identify prospects and strengthen community ties ahead of their competitive return.
For now, the appointment of Corte is a bold statement of intent. Whether it heralds a successful revival or another chapter in the Cosmos’ turbulent history depends on his ability to navigate the challenges ahead. As soccer’s popularity in the U.S. continues to rise, all eyes will be on New York to see if this legendary club can once again rise to prominence.