Former US Women’s National Team head coach Jill Ellis will assume the role of Chief Football Officer at FIFA, effective immediately.
Ellis will work alongside Arsène Wenger, who is FIFA’s Chief of Global Football Development, in a newly created position. The role will “encompass key technical areas connected to the development of the game across the world.”
Ellis will leave her role as President of the San Diego Wave to assume this new role. The 58-year-old joined the NWSL expansion side in 2021, ahead of their inaugural season.
FIFA said in a statement: “In joining FIFA, Jill Ellis will serve as part of the world governing body’s executive management team, driving the development and implementation of FIFA’s global football strategy.”
The news comes alongside mixed reactions from the sporting community, with many citing the consistent controversy surrounding Ellis.
Earlier this year, allegations of creating a toxic working environment hit the two-time Women’s World Cup winner. Former San Diego Wave employee Brittany Alvarado released a statement on social media, alleging ‘life-altering’ abusive treatment under Ellis that had a ‘devastating’ effect on her and her colleagues’ mental health.
The Wave stated the accusations were ‘categorically false.’ Both Ellis and the club were later found not to have violated any law or NWSL policy. Following the investigation results, Ellis filed a defamation lawsuit against Alvarado. The lawsuit alleges that false claims were made and the statements were supported by a fake email.
Following the announcement of her new role, Ellis said: “FIFA has a unique ability, through football, to unite communities and to drive the game’s development worldwide. Having experienced football, from grassroots programmes up to senior national-team level, I’ve seen first-hand its transformative power.”
For many, the news leaves a bad taste in their mouths. Critics point to FIFA’s consistent inadequacy towards the women’s game and question its approach to those they hire.
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