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The USMNT faces a crisis just two months before the 2026 FIFA World Cup as sporting director Matt Crocker announces his departure to join Saudi Arabia. Former player Oguchi Onyewu is expected to take over his role amid concerns for the team's preparations.
The USMNT is in crisis mode just two months before the 2026 FIFA World Cup after one of the soccer teamâs top executives announced his departure. American star Christian Pulisic and Team USA are closing in on a monumental World Cup for American soccer. The tournamentâs return to the United States marks the first time since 1994 that the best countries will return to North America. **MORE: USMNT loses key striker to devastating injury ahead of 2026 FIFA World Cup** However, Fox Sports insider Doug McIntyre revealed a major blow to the U.S. team just two months before the FIFA World Cup. Sporting director Matt Crocker is set to leave his role with the American team and will take on a new job with Saudi Arabia prior to the tournament.
Per multiple sources, Matt Crocker is leaving his role as U.S. Soccer sporting director for a similar role with Saudi Arabia. @FOXSoccer:
â Doug McIntyre (@ByDougMcIntyre) April 14, 2026 Former USA star Oguchi Onyewu will reportedly take over Crockerâs gig with the American team. Additionally, head of womenâs development Tracey Kevins and Dan Helfrich will also help out with the role.
The Saudi team is also competing at the 2026 World Cup in the U.S., Canada and Mexico. The Middle Eastern side plays in Group H with Cape Verde, Spain and Uruguay during the first round.
Meanwhile, this development presents a major challenge for American soccer moving forward as the federation aims to expand on hosting the World Cup.
The 1994 World Cup served as a significant launching pad for the sport in the U.S. However, the Crocker news presents great uncertainty for the American team just two months before the tournament.
**MORE: Argentina, Lionel Messi playing World Cup friendlies at iconic college football stadiums**
âI anticipate zero impact on World Cup preparation as a result of Mattâs decision,â Helfrich said Monday in an exclusive interview. âMauricio and his staff have full control of the preparations for this summerâs tournament, and we have full confidence in them. This transition in no way impacts those plans, which have been long-established.â
While the U.S. Soccer federation claims Crocker's departure won't affect World Cup preparations, it introduces uncertainty just months before the tournament.
Oguchi Onyewu is reportedly set to take over as sporting director for the U.S. men's national team following Matt Crocker's departure.
The USMNT is struggling to improve its performance on the world stage, having failed to advance past the Round of 16 in recent tournaments, including not qualifying for the 2018 World Cup.

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