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US Soccer Federation Sporting Director Matt Crocker resigns
TL;DR
Matt Crocker has resigned as Sporting Director of the US Soccer Federation just two months before the World Cup. His responsibilities will be temporarily handled by COO Dan Helfrich, Assistant Sporting Director Oguchi Onyewu, and Tracey Kevins.
NEW YORK, NEW YORK - SEPTEMBER 13: Matt Crocker looks on during Mauricio Pochettino's first press conference as head coach of the U.S. Mens National Team at Hudson Yards on September 13, 2024 in New York City. (Photo by Stephen Nadler/ISI Photos/Getty Images) | Getty Images
With just two months to go before the World Cup kicks off US Soccer announced the departure of Sporting Director Matt Crocker. The move certainly comes as a surprise as the most important matches for the USMNT approach. For now, his duties will be spread across COO Dan Helfrich overseeing sporting operations with Assistant Sporting Director Oguchi Onyewu and Head of Development for the Women’s Youth National Team Tracey Kevins.
JT Batson, U.S. Soccer CEO and Secretary General noted, “Matt helped guide important steps across our sporting organization, and we’re grateful for his contributions. We’re confident in our strategy, leadership team, coaches, and technical staff. We will continue building the right structure for the future, and we’re well positioned to make the decisions needed in the short, medium, and long term.”
In a story on the US Soccer website, Crocker said, “It has been a privilege to be part of U.S. Soccer during such an important period for the sport in this country.” He went on to mention, “I’m grateful for the people I’ve had the opportunity to work with across the Federation, from our coaches and players to our technical and administrative staff. I’m proud of what’s been built together and confident the team in place will continue to move the game forward and drive success on and off the field.”
Crocker left the role to take a similar role with the Saudi Arabian Football Federation according to Fox Sports. The Welshman joins the SAFF ahead of the nation hosting the AFC Asian Cup next year with the 2034 World Cup a longer term project.
Q&A
Why did Matt Crocker resign from US Soccer Federation?
The specific reasons for Matt Crocker's resignation have not been disclosed, but it comes as a surprise with the World Cup approaching.
Who will take over Matt Crocker's responsibilities at US Soccer?
COO Dan Helfrich, Assistant Sporting Director Oguchi Onyewu, and Tracey Kevins will temporarily oversee Crocker's duties.
What impact could Matt Crocker's resignation have on the US Men's National Team before the World Cup?
Crocker's departure could create uncertainty in leadership and strategy just before the crucial World Cup matches for the US Men's National Team.