URGENT UPDATE: New York City FC has officially appointed Todd Dunivant as the club’s new chief soccer officer, following a thorough search to replace David Lee. Reports confirm that Dunivant, who previously served as general manager and president of Sacramento Republic, will transition to the Major League Soccer (MLS) team in New York City, effective immediately.
Dunivant, 44, arrives at NYCFC after a successful tenure in the USL Championship, where he has led Sacramento to the playoffs in nearly every season since taking the helm in 2018. This news comes just days after NYCFC’s disappointing 5-1 loss to Inter Miami in the Eastern Conference Finals, underscoring the urgent need for strategic changes within the organization.
As NYCFC looks to rebound from a tough end to their season, Dunivant faces immediate challenges. He must negotiate a new contract for Justin Haak, a promising homegrown talent, while also addressing the impact of injuries to key players, including leading scorer Alonso Martínez. The club’s leadership is keenly aware of the need for a fresh perspective, with CEO Brad Sims previously stating the importance of bringing in someone who can “look at things differently.”
Dunivant’s extensive experience as a player in MLS, where he competed in over 300 matches with teams such as the San Jose Earthquakes, LA Galaxy, and Toronto FC, adds depth to his new role. His accolades include winning five MLS Cups and being named to the MLS Best XI in 2011.
The announcement of Dunivant’s hiring coincides with NYCFC’s recent decisions regarding player options for the 2026 season. The club has exercised options for several players including Nico Cavallo and Maxi Moralez, while discussions about the future of Andrés Perea are ongoing. This flurry of activity highlights a pivotal moment for NYCFC as they aim to reestablish their competitive edge.
Fans and stakeholders alike are eager to see how Dunivant will steer NYCFC into its next chapter. His proven track record in player development and team management will be crucial as the club aims to bounce back from recent challenges.
Stay tuned for more updates as NYCFC embarks on this new journey with Todd Dunivant at the helm. The impact of his leadership will be closely watched as the team prepares for the upcoming season.
