Eni Aluko named Angel City FC's first ever sporting director

Former England and Chelsea star Eniola Aluko has been named as the first sporting director for incoming NWSL club Angel City FC.

Aluko leaves her position as Aston Villa's sporting director to take up the role, which will see her leading recruitment for the Los Angeles-based side as they look to develop a roster and staff ahead of their entry into competitive football in the spring of 2022.

Angel City made a splash when they announced the formation of the club last July, with a majority female leadership group including Natalie Portman, Jessica Chastain, Serena Williams and a host of former USWNT internationals – something Aluko admitted on Thursday morning was part of what attracted her to the club.

Founder and president Julie Uhrman said: “Appointing Eniola Aluko, a world-renowned international soccer player with extensive experience in technical positions, is a landmark moment. She personifies the values of our club, and shares our passion to challenge the status quo, push boundaries and try new things.

"We have been a fan of Eni’s for many years now and to be able to see her bring her winning spirit, dedication and experience to ACFC is as real as it gets. This is a huge milestone in our journey, and we could not be more excited to welcome her to the team.”

Aluko herself played in the United States for a couple of years, signing for St. Louis Athletica in the now-defunct WPS before moving to the Atlanta Beat, and later Sky Blue FC before moving back to England in 2012.

In a club statement, the former Chelsea forward said: “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. I have no doubt the club will be a trailblazer, not just in the NWSL and women’s soccer, but for sports clubs globally.

"As a former player, the club’s determination to make an impact both on the field and in the community is something that I fully support, and I can’t wait to get started. I am thrilled to join a fantastic female led ownership group, many of whom I have admired and been inspired by from a young age.”