Matt Crocker has resigned from his position as sporting director of the U.S. Soccer Federation just before the upcoming World Cup. He will be taking up a new role in Saudi Arabia. The USSF confirmed Crocker’s departure, stating that he was pursuing an international soccer opportunity, with sources revealing that he will be joining a Saudi Arabian organization.
This unexpected move comes as the United States prepares to co-host the World Cup, commencing on June 11. The federation is also gearing up for the opening of a new training center in Fayetteville, Georgia, next month, featuring 17 fields and office facilities. Dan Helfrich, who assumed the role of chief operating officer last November, will now oversee the sporting operations, working alongside assistant sporting director Oguchi Onyewu and Tracey Kevins, responsible for the development of the women’s youth national team.
Crocker, 51, joined the USSF in April 2023 following his tenure as the director of football at Southampton. During his time with the federation, Crocker played a key role in significant decisions such as rehiring and later terminating Gregg Berhalter as the men’s coach, as well as appointing Mauricio Pochettino as his successor. He also recommended Emma Hayes as the women’s national team coach, a move that led to the team securing an Olympic gold medal.