Major League Soccer announced this week that Eddie Pope, a Hall of Fame defender and longtime U.S. national team stalwart, has been named to the league’s highest sporting offices, taking on the dual titles of Senior Vice President of Sporting Development and Senior Vice President of Competition & Operations for MLS NEXT Pro.
Eddie Pope Joins MLS Leadership
In his new capacity Pope will be charged with weaving together the strategic threads that link MLS NEXT, MLS NEXT Pro and the parent league, ensuring that pathways for elite youth talent flow smoothly into the professional ranks. He will supervise a broad portfolio that includes Competition, Medical, Player Relations and Operations, giving him direct influence over the league’s on‑field product and its day‑to‑day administration.
Pope’s appointment comes after a distinguished playing career that saw him earn 82 caps for the United States, compete in three FIFA World Cups and win three MLS Cups. His induction into the National Soccer Hall of Fame in 2011 recognized not only his defensive brilliance but also his leadership on the field.
Beyond the pitch, Pope has built executive experience in player representation and international business. He previously served as Director of Player Relations for the MLS Players Association and as Director of North American Soccer at Octagon, before assuming the role of Chief Sporting Officer at Carolina Core FC in MLS NEXT Pro. He also holds a degree from the University of North Carolina, where he was later inducted into the North Carolina Sports Hall of Fame.
Speaking about the new role, Pope said he is proud to join MLS and eager to contribute to the league’s continued growth. He highlighted the importance of aligning development initiatives across the pyramid and expressed optimism that the league can set new standards for player health, competition integrity and fan engagement.
Ali Curtis, who has been a key figure in MLS’s administrative landscape, will continue to collaborate with Pope as the league seeks to innovate its sporting rules and expand its global footprint.