NYCFC Names Todd Dunivant as Chief Soccer Officer: A New Era Begins
NYCFC is set to appoint Todd Dunivant as its new chief soccer officer, according to sources familiar with the agreement. Dunivant, who currently serves as the general manager and club president of USL Championship's Sacramento Republic, will be leaving his position to join NYCFC. The 44-year-old was expected to stay with Sacramento when the club was supposed to join MLS in 2019, but the bid fell through. He will be taking over from David Lee, who recently moved to Sporting KC as CSO.
Dunivant will be stepping into a strong NYCFC team, featuring players like USMNT goalkeeper Matt Freese, center back Thiago Martins, and attacking midfielder Nico Fernández. However, the team suffered a setback when top scorer Alonso Martinez tore his ACL, casting doubt on his availability for the upcoming season. Head coach Pascal Jansen led the team to the Eastern Conference final in his first season, but they were defeated by Inter Miami.
Meanwhile, Sacramento Republic finished second in the Western Conference this season but was eliminated in the playoffs by Orange County SC. Under Dunivant's leadership, the club consistently made the USL Championship playoffs and reached the U.S. Open Cup final in 2022. Dunivant, a former MLS player with over 300 appearances, had successful stints with teams like the San Jose Earthquakes, LA Galaxy, New York Red Bulls, and Toronto FC, winning multiple titles and accolades during his playing career.
In conclusion, Todd Dunivant's appointment as NYCFC's chief soccer officer brings a wealth of experience and success to the club. With his background as a player and executive, he is poised to make a significant impact on the team's future direction and success.