NYCFC appoints MLS legend Todd Dunivant as new sporting director

New York City FC (NYCFC) has appointed Todd Dunivant, a five-time MLS Cup champion and the current general manager of USL Championship side Sacramento Republic FC, as the club’s new sporting director after a months-long effort to replace David Lee.

NYCFC touted Sacramento Republic’s “sustained success” under Dunivant’s leadership over the past eight seasons, with the club reaching the USL Championship play-offs in seven of those eight seasons.

The club also pointed to Sacramento’s run to the US Open Cup Final in 2022 when the USL side became just the fourth non-MLS club to reach the final since the launch of the MLS.

Most recently, Sacramento placed second in the USL’s Western Conference in 2025 before losing to Orange County SC on penalties in the first round of the post-season play-offs. NYCFC, on the other hand, reached the MLS Cup Eastern Conference final before an eventual 5-1 defeat to Inter Miami on Saturday.

Dunivant, who made over 300 MLS appearances across a 13-year playing career, which included a short stint at Red Bull New York, won five MLS Cups as a player in addition to making two appearances for the United States Men’s National Team.

He joins NYCFC following Lee’s departure as sporting director in late September. Lee served in the role for almost six years before departing the club to join Sporting Kansas City as President of Soccer Operations and General Manager.

Dunivant joins as NYCFC’s third-ever sporting director on Jan. 1, 2026, and will be tasked with leading the club’s sporting department, overseeing transfer recruitment and youth development. He will also form a link between the club’s hierarchy and its coaching and playing staff.

NYCFC has tasked Dunivant with building on the club’s consistent success in recent seasons, noting that the club is the only MLS team to make three conference finals in the last five seasons.

Dunivant is set to lead the club into its new home at Etihad Park in Willets Point in 2027 and said he is “honored” to join a “world-class organization.”

“From the Club’s on-the-field results to building our future home in Etihad Park, New York City FC are a world-class organization with limitless potential and an unmatched fan base,” Dunivant said in a statement.

“The Club’s strong foundation is something we will build upon from day one, and I’m eager to join the incredible players, coaches, and staff that already exist at New York City FC. The future has never been brighter for the Club and Major League Soccer.”

Marty Edelman, NYCFC’s co-Vice Chairman, said the club is thrilled with Dunivant’s appointment, adding that Dunivant will bring a “unique perspective” to the club. He also touted Dunivant’s extensive experience of the US soccer ecosystem, from his playing days in the MLS to his career as a general manager in the USL.

“Todd’s humble and collaborative approach, combined with his experience and belief in the growth of our sport, will greatly contribute to the Club’s success,” Edelman said.

NYCFC CEO Brad Sims, meanwhile, said Dunivant had been appointed after a thorough recruitment process following Lee’s departure.

“Todd understands and appreciates the importance of building and nurturing a winning culture like the one we have here at New York City FC. He’s been a leader on and off the pitch and knows what it takes to win trophies in this league. He will help us build teams capable of competing for trophies every year,” Sims said in a statement following Tuesday’s announcement.

For more on NYCFC and Todd Dunivant, visit AMNY.com