Lars Friis previously worked as head coach of Danish clubs Viborg and Aalborg. His résumé also includes a spell with English side Brentford. He joined Sparta’s first-team coaching staff in December 2022, following the departure of former assistant coach Thomas Nørgaard. Over time, he developed into a key part of Brian Priske’s team, with a particular focus on the team’s attacking play.
The cooperation between the Danish coaches soon bore fruit, first with a league title, and in the following season with a historic double and a run to the Europa League Round of 16. After Brian Priske’s move to Feyenoord Rotterdam, Friis was promoted to the position of Sparta’s head coach.
The ultimate goal was clear – to battle through the qualifying rounds and reach the Champions League league phase. After eliminating Shamrock Rovers from Ireland and Romanian side FCSB, we faced Malmö FF in the play-off round. We beat the Swedish champions 2–0 in both legs, securing a place among Europe’s elite for the first time in nineteen years.
In the Champions League, we played some memorable matches – the victory over Salzburg and the draw in Stuttgart will be remembered for a long time. In domestic competitions, we fought our way to the final of the national cup, including a tough semifinal battle with Plzeň. Unfortunately, we didn’t manage to add another trophy to our collection.
Lars, thank you! We wish you all the best in both your personal life and your coaching career!
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