Matt Crocker's decision to leave his position as sporting director of U.S. Soccer comes at a critical time. With the 2026 FIFA World Cup just under two months away, his unexpected departure has raised several questions about the future of U.S. Soccer and its preparations for the upcoming tournament. Crocker’s move to Saudi Arabia, a country that might even face the U.S. in the World Cup’s knockout stages, adds a layer of intrigue to the situation. As the sporting world reacts, we break down the four key questions surrounding Crocker’s exit.
1. What Does a Sporting Director Do, and Why Is Crocker Leaving Now?
A sporting director's primary responsibility is to oversee the hiring and firing of coaches, but the role extends much deeper. Crocker was responsible for the development and management of all 27 national teams under U.S. Soccer’s umbrella. His role included setting the strategic direction for the organization and playing a significant part in the development of the new $200 million training facility in Fayetteville, Georgia. Given that the World Cup is just around the corner, Crocker’s departure is undeniably a big deal. His exit at such a crucial juncture raises concerns about the future of the U.S. Men’s National Team (USMNT) as they prepare for their first World Cup on home soil in 32 years.
2. Crocker’s Tenure: Hits, Misses, and Major Decisions
Crocker’s tenure at U.S. Soccer was marked by several bold decisions. He notably re-hired Gregg Berhalter for the men’s side in 2023, a decision that came with mixed reactions. The 2024 Copa América was disappointing, casting doubt on that move. However, Crocker’s subsequent hires of world-class coaches like Emma Hayes for the women’s side and Mauricio Pochettino for the men’s side were major coups for U.S. Soccer. Under Hayes, the U.S. women won their fifth Olympic gold medal, and Pochettino's hiring has generated hope for the men’s team as the World Cup approaches. Crocker’s ability to attract top talent was crucial for U.S. Soccer’s growth, making his exit a significant blow. The Saudi Arabian move, however, suggests that Crocker was lured by a lucrative offer, and the timing seems to align with Saudi Arabia's ambitions for the 2034 World Cup.
3. How Does Crocker’s Departure Affect Pochettino and the World Cup?
Despite the timing of Crocker’s departure, Pochettino’s work ahead of the World Cup is largely unaffected. Crocker’s role as sporting director doesn’t directly involve day-to-day coaching or player management. The team is already set, and Pochettino is focused on preparing the squad for the competition. In a statement, Pochettino emphasized his commitment to the World Cup preparation, affirming that his staff remains dedicated to the task at hand. Crocker’s exit will not impact the national team’s readiness for the summer tournament, as all major planning and decisions have already been made.
4. Can Oguchi Onyewu Take Over as Sporting Director?
One of the most natural candidates to fill Crocker’s shoes is Oguchi Onyewu, a former U.S. Men’s National Team star and two-time World Cup veteran. Having already worked as Crocker’s assistant sporting director, Onyewu has proven his competence and deep knowledge of the sport. Fluent in four languages, he has a rich background playing in top leagues across Europe and the U.S., and his leadership experience includes executive roles with clubs like Orlando City B and Royal Excelsior Virton. At just 43, Onyewu’s experience and passion for American soccer make him an ideal candidate to take over the role of sporting director. His long-standing commitment to the growth of soccer in the U.S. makes him a strong leader for the future.
What’s Next for U.S. Soccer?
Matt Crocker’s sudden exit is certainly a significant change for U.S. Soccer as the country gears up for the 2026 World Cup. Despite this, the immediate preparations for the tournament seem to be secure under the leadership of Pochettino. However, Crocker’s departure raises important questions about the future direction of the federation and whether his replacement, possibly Onyewu, will be able to continue his legacy. As the World Cup approaches, the stakes couldn’t be higher for U.S. Soccer, and every decision made in the coming months will play a pivotal role in shaping the future of American soccer.
