Jill Ellis Joins FIFA in Groundbreaking Role Alongside Arsène Wenger
In a move that’s sending shockwaves through the soccer world, former United States women’s national team coach Jill Ellis is stepping into a new chapter of her career. Ellis, who had been serving as president of the NWSL’s San Diego Wave, is leaving her post to take on a high-profile role as FIFA’s chief football officer. She’ll be working alongside none other than former Arsenal coach Arsène Wenger, as confirmed by both the Wave and FIFA on Tuesday.
Ellis, a name synonymous with success in women’s soccer, joined the San Diego Wave as the expansion team’s first president ahead of its inaugural NWSL season in 2022. Her resume is nothing short of legendary—she remains the only coach to lead a team to back-to-back Women’s World Cup victories, guiding the U.S. women’s national team to triumphs in 2015 and 2019. Now, she’s taking her talents to the global stage in a role that could shape the future of soccer worldwide.
“I am honoured to join FIFA in this pioneering role and to contribute to the growth of football from a global perspective,” Ellis said in a news release. “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.”
A Legacy of Leadership
Ellis’s move to FIFA comes at a pivotal time for the sport. Her new role will see her “serve as part of the world governing body’s executive management team, driving the development and implementation of FIFA’s global football strategy,” according to FIFA’s announcement. It’s a position that will allow her to leverage her decades of experience in the game to influence soccer on a global scale.
FIFA Secretary General Mattias Grafström had high praise for Ellis, saying, “Jill’s experience, enthusiasm and outstanding achievements make her the perfect choice for this role. She has been a true inspiration for many, and I look forward to seeing the impact of her work continue to inspire many more around the world. FIFA is very proud to have Jill and Arsène, two of the great football leaders and thinkers, to help us make our vision for football a reality. Her appointment demonstrates FIFA’s commitment to the future of the game and to creating more opportunities for the next generation.”
Wenger, who has been with FIFA since 2019, will now have Ellis as a partner in shaping the organization’s football strategy. Together, they represent a powerhouse of soccer knowledge and leadership.
Challenges and Controversies
While Ellis’s career has been marked by incredible success, it hasn’t been without its challenges. In July, she filed a defamation lawsuit against a former San Diego Wave employee who accused her of creating a toxic work environment. That litigation is still pending. Additionally, sources told ESPN’s Jeff Carlisle last month that Ellis reached a settlement with the U.S. Soccer Federation in 2022 as part of the players’ landmark equal pay lawsuit.
Despite these controversies, Ellis’s reputation as a trailblazer in the sport remains intact. Her ability to navigate the complexities of leadership, both on and off the field, has made her one of the most respected figures in soccer.
What This Means for FIFA
Ellis’s appointment is a clear signal that FIFA is serious about its commitment to growing the game and creating opportunities for the next generation. Her experience at every level of the sport, from grassroots programs to the pinnacle of international competition, makes her uniquely qualified to take on this role.
Here’s what we know about her new position:
- Ellis will be part of FIFA’s executive management team.
- She will work on developing and implementing FIFA’s global football strategy.
- Her role will focus on uniting communities and driving the game’s development worldwide.
With Ellis and Wenger at the helm of FIFA’s football strategy, the organization is poised to make significant strides in shaping the future of the sport. Whether it’s through fostering grassroots programs, promoting gender equality, or enhancing the global reach of soccer, the duo’s combined expertise could be a game-changer.
Looking Ahead
As Ellis transitions into her new role, the soccer world will be watching closely. Her track record suggests she’s more than up to the task, and her partnership with Wenger adds an extra layer of intrigue. Together, they have the potential to leave an indelible mark on the sport.
For fans of the San Diego Wave, Ellis’s departure marks the end of an era. But for the global soccer community, it’s the beginning of an exciting new chapter. As FIFA continues to evolve, having leaders like Ellis and Wenger at the forefront ensures that the future of the game is in capable hands.
Originally Written by: Jeff Carlisle
