USMNT legend Claudio Reyna resigns as Austin FC athletic director amid controversy

Amid controversy, Claudio Reyna has resigned as Austin FC’s sporting director but will continue to serve as technical adviser, the club announced on Thursday. During the transition, head coach Josh Wolff will serve as the club’s chief soccer officer, while Sean Rubio will be interim sporting director pending a decision on where the team is going.

After Reyna and his wife Danielle drew US Soccer’s attention to allegations of domestic violence involving former US men’s national team head coach Gregg Berhalter In retaliation for her son barely taking part in the World Cup, it was asked if there would be any impact on Reyna’s current position. But with his retirement, the team can continue on its own terms after the team’s second season in MLS, making it into the last four and almost into the MLS Cup.

US Soccer’s investigation into both Berhalter and “potential inappropriate conduct by people outside of our organization towards several employees of our organization” is ongoing, but it would have been difficult for Reyna to continue his role at Austin as things unfold. especially with the MLS season starting in less than a month.

“We are grateful for Claudio’s contributions to both our club and our community,” said Anthony Precourt, Austin FC majority owner and chief executive officer. “Claudio is dedicated to building a club that inspires Austin and he will continue to be able to contribute to our organization.”

Reyna has been with the club since 2019 and was involved in its founding, having also managed New York City FC as a first staffer in 2013. As a rising director in the league, it will be interesting to see if Reyna gets another chance any time soon or if the distractions off the pitch prevent that.