List of Columbus Crew head coaches

Timo Liekoski, the only Finnish head coach in MLS history, was the first head coach in 1996, but started 6–16 with just 14 points in its first 22 games, lowest in the league by seven points, and was fired midseason to be replaced by Tom Fitzgerald, who would lead the Crew to the playoffs, amassing 7 wins, 2 draws, and a single loss after taking over for Timo Liekoski.

[7] He achieved a significant milestone by leading the Columbus Crew to their first major tournament victory in 2002, winning the Lamar Hunt U.S. Open Cup.

He coached the team from 2006 through 2008 and implemented an offense based on ball possession and flank speed, focusing on a cautious, strategic style rather than taking unnecessary risks, and centered on roaming playmaker Guillermo Barros Schelotto.

Columbus finished the 2009 season as Supporter's Shield winners, but bowed out in the 2009 Conference semifinals against Real Salt Lake, with Warzycha making the controversial decision to bench Guillermo Barros Schelotto in game one of the series.

[23] Discontent grew during the 2010 and 2011 seasons, with critics attributing the team's success to Schmid's roster while the Crew jettisoned well-known names to begin a rebuild, including Guillermo Barros Schelotto and captain Frankie Hejduk.

In the summer fans demonstrated their discontent by throwing pink slips during Warzycha's pre-game introductions, signaling a lack of support.

He also highlighted his desire for fullbacks to push forward and contribute to the attack frequently, while also applying pressure to quickly regain possession after losing the ball.

Nancy would guide the Crew to an MLS Cup victory his first season in charge, beating the defending champions Los Angeles FC 2–1.