Former U.S. men’s national team defender Jonathan Spector has joined Atlanta United as their Head of International Player Recruitment and Development, the club announced Friday.
Spector made 36 USMNT appearances throughout his 16-year playing career, which included 38 appearances with Orlando City from 2017-18.
“We’re thrilled that Jonathan’s decided to start the next phase of his career with Atlanta United and his overall expertise will be a significant addition for our club,” said Vice President and Technical Director Carlos Bocanegra in a club release. “As a player, he spent 14 seasons playing in England, including eight in the Premier League, which is a remarkable feat for any American. He also experienced some of the biggest matches in USMNT history and we’re extremely confident in his ability to make the transition into the front office side of business.”
Spector, 33, began his professional career in England with Manchester United, then also played extensively for Charlton Athletic, West Ham United and Birmingham City. He was known for playing all across the backline, as well as in midfield.
Now, he’s joined the defending MLS Cup and Campeones Cup champions with an eye on pushing the club further forward.
“I’m excited about the opportunity to work for a club as big as Atlanta United and I hope to contribute and build on the enormous success that this club has already achieved,” Spector said. “It was always a priority for me to return to the United States in a continued effort to grow the game and I couldn’t be happier to do it in Atlanta."
