Chicago Fire FC connects to St. Louis City SC in 2 degrees through coaching and expansion draft. First, Chicago Fire FC links to New York Red Bulls via coaching: Bob Bradley managed Chicago Fire FC (1998–2002) and New York Red Bulls (2003–2005). Finally, New York Red Bulls links to St. Louis City SC via expansion draft: Jake LaCava was selected by St. Louis City SC from New York Red Bulls in the 2022 expansion draft.