Roger Hampel
Minnesota United has taken a significant step forward by appointing Khaled El-Ahmad as its new sporting director and chief soccer officer, effective from December 15, following his tenure at Barnsley FC. El-Ahmad's unique journey from Sweden to the United States, and his diverse cultural background, positions him as an ideal leader for the Loons.
His soccer journey began in earnest at Wisconsin-Milwaukee, where he notably contributed to a culture of success. His leadership and skill on the field propelled the team to impressive heights, including five consecutive NCAA tournaments and multiple Horizon League titles.
His former coach at Wisconsin-Milwaukee, Louis Bennett, recalls El-Ahmad as the key player in creating a winning team culture. This ability to foster a positive and successful environment was a significant factor in his selection by Minnesota United.
Khaled El-Ahmad's multilingual skills and global perspective are particularly valuable in the diverse world of soccer. His ability to communicate in multiple languages, including Arabic and Lebanese, mirrors the multicultural essence of the sport.
El-Ahmad's professional journey is diverse and rich, encompassing roles as a college assistant coach, player agent, video coordinator, scout, recruiter, data analyst, and entrepreneur. Before joining Barnsley FC, he spent six years with the City Football Group, contributing to the scouting efforts for Manchester City and playing a role in assembling the New York City FC team that clinched the 2021 MLS Cup.
Minnesota United's CEO Shari Ballard was impressed by El-Ahmad's broad experience and flexible thinking. His diverse life experiences and exposure to various cultures and soccer systems have shaped him into a dynamic and versatile leader. As Ballard notes, El-Ahmad's ability to adapt and innovate makes him an invaluable asset to the team.
El-Ahmad's appointment comes at a pivotal time for Minnesota United, as the team looks to build on its successes and chart a course for the future. His global experience, coupled with a deep understanding of soccer dynamics in the United States, positions him to lead Minnesota United into a new era of success and innovation.
In conclusion, Khaled El-Ahmad's diverse background and extensive experience in the world of soccer make him an exciting and fitting choice for Minnesota United. His leadership skills, honed both on and off the field, promise to bring a fresh perspective and renewed vigor to the team, as they strive to make their mark in the competitive landscape of MLS.
Source: Star Tribune
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