D.C. United<\/a> have hired Dr. Erkut Sogut as their new managing director of soccer operations, the club announced Friday.<\/p>\n<\/p><\/div>\n The German-born Sogut joins the Black-and-Red following a successful career as a sports agent and lawyer, most notably representing superstar former Germany international Mesut \u00d6zil.<\/p>\n He recently played a key role in identifying and recruiting current head coach Ren\u00e9 Weiler for D.C. United, further adding to his track record in deal-making, relationship-building, player evaluation, and recruitment.<\/p>\n “Erkut possesses the right mix of qualities to lead our soccer operations as we build for the future,” co-chairmen Jason Levien and Steve Kaplan said in a statement. \u201cWith Erkut’s appointment, we are adding a globally connected dealmaker who has a proven track record in player identification and recruitment, as well as someone who has a strong relationship with Ren\u00e9.<\/p>\n “Their alignment is critical moving forward.”<\/p>\n<\/p><\/div>\n Sogut’s arrival comes amid a transitional season for D.C. United. The club parted ways with head coach Troy Lesesne<\/a> in July before replacing him with Weiler<\/a>, who previously led Swiss Super League side Servette FC and brings 20 years of managerial experience.<\/p>\n Earlier this week, the Black-and-Red cut ties with general manager and chief soccer officer Ally Mackay<\/a>.<\/p>\n “I am honored to take on this role with D.C. United and to work alongside Ren\u00e9 Weiler in driving this club to compete at the very top of MLS,\u201d Sogut said.<\/p>\n \u201cMy foundation in sports management, combined with two decades of work in global football, has prepared me for this role, and I look forward to bringing my drive and experience to D.C. United.\u201d<\/p>\n One of Major League Soccer’s original 10 clubs and the league’s first dynasty, United last made the Audi MLS Cup Playoffs in 2019.<\/p>\n The four-time MLS Cup champions are already out of contention for the 2025 postseason with four games remaining.<\/p>\n<\/p><\/div>\n<\/p><\/div>\n<\/p><\/div>\n <\/main><\/p>\n<\/div>\nD.C. reboot<\/h3>\n<\/p>\n
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