Matt Crocker Resigns as U.S. Soccer Sporting Director Ahead of World Cup
- Niveditaa chakrapani
- Apr 17
- 2 min read
Nivedita Chakrapani, Jadetimes staff
Matt Crocker has stepped down as sporting director of the U.S. Soccer Federation just two months before the upcoming FIFA World Cup, in a move that has surprised many across the football world.
The federation confirmed Tuesday that Crocker is leaving to pursue a new international opportunity, with reports indicating that he is set to take up a role in Saudi Arabia.
His departure comes at a crucial time, as the United States prepares to co-host the World Cup, which begins on June 11. Crocker had been playing a central role in shaping the national team’s direction, including key leadership appointments.
Among his major decisions was the hiring of Mauricio Pochettino as head coach of the U.S. men’s national team in 2024, following the dismissal of Gregg Berhalter after an early exit from the Copa América. Crocker was also instrumental in bringing in Emma Hayes to lead the women’s national team, a move that culminated in an Olympic gold medal success.
The U.S. Soccer Federation stated that Dan Helfrich, the organization’s chief operating officer, will oversee sporting operations on an interim basis. He will work alongside assistant sporting director Oguchi Onyewu and women’s youth development head Tracey Kevins.
Crocker, 51, joined U.S. Soccer in 2023 after serving as director of football at Southampton, where he was credited with strengthening the club’s development structure.
His sudden exit raises questions about continuity and leadership at a pivotal moment for U.S. soccer, with the World Cup on the horizon and major infrastructure projects—including a new national training center in Georgia—nearing completion.
As preparations intensify, the federation now faces the challenge of maintaining stability and momentum during one of the most significant periods in its history.
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