Ally Mackay hired as United’s general manager, chief soccer officer

In a bid to reverse disappointing on-field performance after many years, D.C. United has confirmed the entrustment of its soccer operations to Ally Mackay, a Scotsman who has played an instrumental role in the successful start of expansion Nashville in the MLS.

Amid disappointing playoff berths and MLS Cup titles, United announced the hiring of Mackay as its general manager and chief soccer officer.

Formerly Nashville’s assistant GM, he will oversee player identification, recruitment, acquisition, roster development, academy integration, and the management and oversight of the technical staff according to the club.

At 37, Mackay becomes the youngest general manager in MLS and has signed a four-year contract.

Mackay, who will report to co-chairmen Jason Levien and Steve Kaplan, will also lead the search for a head coach following Wayne Rooney’s departure.

Mackay’s appointment marks a significant change in the technical side of the front office after being led by Dave Kasper for over 20 years.

In a statement, Mackay emphasized the immediate opportunity for growth on the soccer side and his eagerness to start working.

The USMNT has a rising star in Gio Reyna. It is learning how to use him.

United did not employ a general manager this season after the firing of Lucy Rushton in October 2022. Instead, it turned to Kasper and technical director Stewart Mairs for roster decisions.

After an MLS-worst 2022 campaign, United finished 12th in the Eastern Conference and 23rd overall in the 29-team league this year.

United and Rooney went their separate ways, marking the third coaching vacancy in four seasons. Mackay has already shared ideas about coaching candidates, and the process will accelerate right away.

Mackay was among several candidates from MLS and abroad who interviewed for the front office position.

The former University of Evansville defender helped Nashville become one of the three teams in MLS history to make the playoffs in their first four seasons.

Mackay was credited with helping acquire German attacker Hany Mukhtar, the 2022 MLS MVP, and standout defender Walker Zimmerman.

With Mackay in place, United is expected to finalize decisions on player contract options. The deadline is Dec. 1.