SEATTLE - NOVEMBER 19: Todd Dunivant of the Los Angeles Galaxy boards the team's charter flight to Seattle ahead of their MLS Cup game on Sunday against Real Salt Lake on November 19, 2009 in Los Angeles, California. (Photo by Robert Mora/MLS via Getty Images)
BREAKING: New York City FC has officially named Todd Dunivant as its new chief soccer officer, filling the vacancy left by David Lee who departed for Sporting Kansas City in October. The announcement comes as the club seeks to revitalize after a challenging end to the season, capped by a 5-1 loss to Inter Miami in the Eastern Conference Finals just last Saturday.
Dunivant, aged 44, transitions from his role with Sacramento Republic in the USL Championship, where he served as general manager since 2018 and president since 2020. His extensive playing career in MLS included over 300 matches with teams like the San Jose Earthquakes, LA Galaxy, and New York Red Bulls, alongside winning five MLS Cups.
The timing of this announcement is crucial as NYCFC looks to build on a solid foundation established under head coach Pascal Jansen. Dunivant faces immediate challenges, including renegotiating contracts with key players like homegrown talent Justin Haak and addressing the absence of leading scorer Alonso Martínez, who is currently recovering from injury.
NYCFC CEO Brad Sims indicated that the search for a new chief soccer officer was a meticulous process. Speaking to The Post in November, Sims noted they had narrowed down their candidates, stating, “I would expect whoever we hire to come in to want to dig in and look at things differently.” Dunivant’s fresh perspective is anticipated to bring innovative strategies to the club.
During his tenure at Sacramento, Dunivant led the team to the USL Championship playoffs in all but one season and guided them to the U.S. Open Cup final in 2022. His experience both on and off the field is expected to be invaluable as NYCFC navigates the upcoming season.
In addition to Dunivant’s hiring, NYCFC confirmed the exercise of options for several players, including Nico Cavallo and Tayvon Gray, ensuring the squad’s core remains intact heading into 2026. However, discussions are ongoing regarding the futures of Andrés Perea and veteran Maxi Moralez, highlighting the club’s focus on maintaining a competitive roster.
This pivotal decision marks a new chapter for NYCFC as it aims to reclaim its position in the league. Fans and analysts alike will be closely watching how Dunivant’s leadership influences the team’s direction in the coming months.
Stay tuned for further updates as NYCFC prepares for the next season!
