Matt Crocker has abruptly resigned as sporting director of the US Soccer Federation, just two months before the nation co-hosts the World Cup, to take up a new position in Saudi Arabia.
The unexpected departure leaves a significant void at a critical juncture for American football.
The USSF confirmed Crocker was leaving to pursue an "unidentified international soccer opportunity”, though a source familiar with the decision, speaking anonymously to The Associated Press, indicated his new role would be in Saudi Arabia. Fox was the first to report his move to the Gulf state.
Crocker's exit comes as a surprise, given the US is set to co-host the World Cup from 11 June until July 19, and the contract of men’s coach Mauricio Pochettino concludes after the tournament.
Furthermore, the USSF is preparing to open its new 200-acre, 17-field training centre and office complex in Fayetteville, Georgia, next month.
Dan Helfrich, appointed as the federation's chief operating officer in November, will now provide "executive oversight and support across the federation’s sporting operations”, according to the USSF.
He will collaborate with assistant sporting director Oguchi Onyewu, a former national team defender, and Tracey Kevins, head of development for the women’s youth national team.
Crocker, 51, joined the USSF in April 2023, having previously served as Southampton's director of football since February 2020.
During his tenure, he oversaw the re-hiring of Gregg Berhalter as men's coach in June 2023, his subsequent dismissal in July 2024 following a first-round elimination at the Copa America, and the appointment of Pochettino that September.
He also recommended Emma Hayes as women's national team coach, who went on to secure an Olympic gold medal in Paris.
The US have been placed in Group D for this summer’s tournament alongside Paraguay, Australia and Turkey, and will be hoping to go further than in 2022, when they reached the round of 16.
