Photo Courtesy of LAFC.
Angel City FC announced on Thursday that they had hired former England international Eniola Aluko as its first Sporting Director.
“This is an incredible opportunity to help write Angel City’s first chapter and to build a team that is people-focused and admired by players and fans all over the world,” Aluko said in a statement. “I have no doubt the club will be a trailblazer, not just in the NWSL and women’s soccer, but for sports clubs globally.”
Aluko will lead Angel City’s roster management and recruitment strategy, oversee player and technical staff development, and act as the NWSL liaison in regards to compliance and administration. Prior to taking the Angel City position, Aluko had a stint as Director of Women’s Football at Aston Villa, where she oversaw the club’s operations during its first season in England’s top flight women’s league. Aluko has also worked as a television pundit and studied law.
Aluko is best known for her performances on the pitch for both club and country, even here in the United States. Aluko began her professional career in 2001 with Birmingham City and also played for Charlton Athletic and Chelsea, where she broke out with 15 goals in 28 appearances. Aluko then brought her talents stateside in 2009 to WPS, where she joined St. Louis Athletica. Aluko quickly established herself as one of WPS’ top strikers, scoring 10 goals in 25 appearances. Aluko also played for the Atlanta Beat and Sky Blue FC before returning to England in 2012, first back to Birmingham City, then back to Chelsea, where she scored 22 goals in 73 appearances. Aluko later finished her career in Italy playing for Juventus. On the international stage, Aluko is regarded as one of England’s best players. Aluko earned 102 caps for the Lionesses and scored 33 goals.
“Appointing Eniola Aluko, a world-renowned international soccer player with extensive experience in technical positions, is a landmark moment for us,” Julie Uhrman, Founder and President Angel City FC said in a statement. “She personifies the values of our club, and shares our passion to challenge the status quo, push boundaries and try new things.”
The hiring of Aluko comes as Angel City is entering an important time with its debut season just a year away. Angel City are at that point now where they will begin considering head coaching candidates and before you know it, the time will come for Angel City FC to start filling out its roster. More recently, Angel City FC held a block party in Venice Beach and Los Angeles, giving the team its first chance to connect with fans.
