Major League Soccer announced today that former U.S. national team defender Eddie Pope has been named to a dual senior vice president role, overseeing both Sporting Development and Competition & Operations for MLS NEXT Pro while also guiding the league’s long‑term sporting vision.
Pope’s New responsibilities
In his expanded capacity, Pope will align development pathways across MLS NEXT, MLS NEXT Pro and the parent league, supervise departments such as Competition, Medical, Player Relations and Operations, and help shape premier events that define the competition calendar.
Pope’s appointment comes as MLS seeks to deepen its talent pipeline and reinforce a cohesive strategy for player growth, health and operational excellence across its youth and professional tiers.
A decorated playing legacy
The new executive brings a distinguished playing résumé, having earned 82 caps for the U.S. Men’s National Team, represented the country at three World Cups and the 1996 Olympics, and captured three MLS Cups during his club career.
A graduate of the University of North Carolina, Pope was drafted by D.C. United in 1996 and later earned induction into the National Soccer Hall of Fame in 2011, cementing his status as one of the nation’s most respected defenders.
Before joining MLS, Pope served as Director of Player Relations for the MLS Players Association and held leadership posts at Octagon and Carolina Core FC, where he rose to Chief Sporting Officer in the NEXT Pro ranks.
“I’m excited to join MLS and contribute to the league’s growth and player development efforts,” Pope said in the announcement, underscoring his commitment to the sport’s future in the United States.
Ali Curtis, a longtime MLS executive, will continue to support the league’s strategic initiatives alongside Pope, ensuring that the sport’s operational and developmental goals remain aligned.