Todd Dunivant Appointed Sporting Director of NYCFC
Todd Dunivant has officially taken up the role of sporting director for New York City FC, as announced by the club on Tuesday. The 44-year-old arrives to fill the vacancy left by David Lee, who departed in October to take the position of chief soccer officer at Sporting Kansas City.
Previous Experience
Before joining NYCFC, Dunivant spent eight seasons with the Sacramento Republic in the USL Championship, where he played a key role in developing a competitive squad that made consistent playoff appearances and reached the U.S. Open Cup final in 2022.
Statement from Dunivant
“I am honored to join New York City FC as Sporting Director and add to the success of this flagship Club and City Football Group. New York City FC has quickly become a formidable presence in Major League Soccer, known for its impressive on-field performances and future plans for the new Etihad Park. I am excited to engage with our passionate fan base and meet them in person.”
He emphasized the importance of building off the club’s solid foundation, stating his eagerness to collaborate with the current talent within NYCFC.
“The future looks incredibly bright for the Club and Major League Soccer as a whole. I look forward to achieving great success together, especially looking toward 2026 and beyond,”
Background and Future Plans
Interestingly, Dunivant almost took a role as an MLS general manager in 2019, when Sacramento was on track to join the league as an expansion team. However, that initiative collapsed in October 2021, after lead investor Ron Burkle opted out due to skyrocketing stadium construction costs. Dunivant’s hiring now provides him with the vast resources of City Football Group as he aims to elevate the team from its recent Eastern Conference final exit against Inter Miami CF.
“We are excited to welcome Todd Dunivant to New York City FC as our Sporting Director,” stated Marty Edelman, co-vice chairman of NYCFC. “His extensive experience and deep knowledge of Major League Soccer and the U.S. soccer landscape will be invaluable. Todd’s humble and cooperative approach will significantly impact the success of the club.”
Coaching and Playing Career
Prior to his time in Sacramento, Dunivant managed the San Francisco Deltas in the North American Soccer League, leading the team to a league championship in their inaugural season before the club ultimately ceased operations.
As a player, Dunivant enjoyed a distinguished career in Major League Soccer, winning five MLS Cup titles over 13 seasons while playing for teams such as the San Jose Earthquakes, Toronto FC, New York Red Bulls, and LA Galaxy. His career highlights include his first MLS Cup victory in 2003 with San Jose and being named to the MLS Best XI in 2011. Additionally, Dunivant represented the United States men’s national team twice on the international stage.
