ALBUQUERQUE, N.M. (KRQE) – New Mexico United has found its next head coach. The club announced on Tuesday that Dennis Sanchez is the new man in charge for the black and yellow. Sanchez joins United with prior experience coaching in the USL-Championship. Most recently, Sanchez spent the 2024 season as head coach of Las Vegas Lights FC. With Las Vegas, Sanchez led the club to the the conference finals in a season where the club set internal records for wins (13), points (50) and regular season final standing (fourth). Sanchez went 2-1 against New Mexico including a 1-0 win in the conference semi-final. "I couldn’t be more excited to become a part of the New Mexico United family,” said Sanchez. “It’s a privilege to join such a special club with a clear vision for success. The drive to win trophies, the caliber of people here, and the deep ties to our community are what made this opportunity so compelling. We're focused on building on the club’s recent achievements and aiming for even more success, because that’s what our incredible supporters deserve." In addition to his time as a head coach, Sanchez has a development background. Prior to his time in Las Vegas, Sanchez was part of Austin FC II of MLS Next Pro where he helped guide the team to a title in 2023. Sanchez has also served on the staff of Charleston Battery and Sacramento Republic FC where he was the Academy Director. Sanchez will officially be introduced as the fourth-ever head coach of New Mexico United in January. LAS VEGAS, NEVADA - MAY 08: Head coach Dennis Sanchez of Las Vegas Lights FC reacts during the first half of a 2024 U.S. Open Cup game against Los Angeles FC at Cashman Field on May 08, 2024 in Las Vegas, Nevada. (Photo by Ian Maule/USSF/Getty Images)