(Photo credit: Cary Edmondson-Imagn Images)

New York City FC named longtime MLS defender Todd Dunivant as their new sporting director on Tuesday.

Dunivant, 44, previously served as general manager (since 2018) and president (since 2021) for USL Championship side Sacramento Republic FC.

Dunivant succeeds longtime sporting director David Lee, who left NYCFC in October to become chief soccer officer for Sporting Kansas City.

'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,' Dunivant said in a team news release.

'... 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, and I look forward to accomplishing big things together in 2026 and beyond.'

Dunivant is one of the most decorated players in league history, winning five MLS Cups and two Supporters' Shields during a 13-year career with more than 300 appearances from 2003-15. He made the MLS Best XI in 2011 and won four Humanitarian of the Year awards.

'After a thorough search, we could not be more excited with Todd Dunivant becoming the Sporting Director at New York City FC,' said Brad Sims, New York City FC CEO. '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.'

NYCFC advanced to the Eastern Conference final during the 2025 MLS Cup playoffs. The season ended there with a 5-1 loss to Inter Miami on Saturday night.

--Field Level Media