U.S. Soccer Faces Unexpected Shake-Up
This past year for U.S. soccer has been nothing short of chaotic, and now it’s taken another unexpected turn—at possibly the worst moment.
Matt Crocker, the sporting director for U.S. Soccer, has announced his immediate resignation to take on a similar position in Saudi Arabia. This surprising decision comes just two months before the 2026 World Cup, which the U.S., Canada, and Mexico will co-host. It’s also just days after the U.S. Men’s National Team’s match with Paraguay in Los Angeles.
The timing has left many, including former player Alexi Lalas, stunned. Lalas expressed his disbelief on the “State of the Union” podcast, saying, “Just when you thought the U.S. Soccer Federation couldn’t get any more exciting, this happens. He’s supposed to be the leader for the World Cup this summer, yet he won’t even be there.” It’s a strange scenario, to say the least, that Crocker will move to a team that’s contending for a World Cup title while the U.S. faces the challenges ahead.
Interestingly, while the timing of the announcement was shocking, the choice of Saudi Arabia as Crocker’s new destination isn’t as surprising. Over the last decade, the country has heavily invested in its sports scene through the Public Investment Fund. They’ve acquired Premier League teams, initiated a breakaway golf tour, and attracted significant boxing and UFC events. This shift seems to be part of a strategy aimed at the 2034 World Cup, which will take place in Saudi Arabia.
Crocker’s resume is quite impressive. He came to U.S. Soccer in 2023 after a seven-year stint as the technical director for the England national team, in addition to holding a similar role at Southampton. He received commendations for effectively managing major transitions, such as succeeding Mauricio Pochettino as manager of England’s team, alongside Emma Hayes for the women’s team.
Initially seen as a significant acquisition for U.S. soccer, Crocker’s departure highlights the tumultuous preparations leading into this summer’s World Cup. His resignation has fueled further speculation regarding Pochettino, suggesting he might also depart after the tournament.
As of now, while a permanent replacement for Crocker is still to be decided, responsibilities will temporarily fall to Assistant Athletic Director Oguchi Onyewu, Women’s Development Director Tracy Kevins, and COO Dan Helfrich. They will oversee Crocker’s duties as the World Cup approaches.
“We do not expect any impact on our World Cup preparations due to Matt’s decision,” Helfrich told McIntyre on Monday. “Mauricio and his staff are fully in charge of the tournament preparations, and we have complete confidence in them. This transition won’t disrupt our established plans,” he added.
