Nelson Rodríguez Appointed President of Chivas USA

Major League Soccer (MLS) have announced today that Nelson Rodríguez has been appointed president of Chivas USA.

Rodríguez will oversee all aspects of Chivas USA’s business and sporting operations while MLS continues its search for a new ownership group.

Last week, MLS purchased Chivas USA from Jorge Vergara and Angelica Fuentes and assumed responsibility for operating the club until a new ownership group is finalized. Head Coach Wilmer Cabrera, who joined the club January 9, will continue in his position and report to Rodríguez.

“I have had the privilege of working with Nelson for over 14 years and am very pleased that he has agreed to serve as the president of Chivas USA. Based on his long experience on both the business and sporting side of our game, I have great confidence that he will provide strong leadership for the club during this transition year,” said MLS Commissioner Don Garber.

Rodríguez joins Chivas USA after 14 years at the MLS league office where he most recently served as Executive Vice President of Competition, Technical and Game Operations. Credited with leading a number of initiatives both on and off the field, Rodríguez also has a wealth of experience in  business operations, including serving as, the Senior Vice President of Strategic Development for MLS’ commercial arm, Soccer United Marketing. Prior to joining MLS, the New Jersey native was a club executive for the NY/NJ MetroStars and was a member of the 1994 FIFA World Cup local organizing committee for the Giants Stadium venue.

“I am thankful for the opportunity and recognize the responsibility in what is an important season for the club,” said Rodríguez. “Regardless of the ownership status, this team and staff will compete on all fronts and we look forward to the challenge.”

In the coming months, the league will resell the club to a new ownership group that is committed to building a new stadium and keeping the team in Los Angeles. The league has had initial discussions with a number potential owners and intends to finalize an agreement with a new group sometime this year.

The club will play as Chivas USA during the 2014 MLS season and will be rebranded with a new team name and logo as determined by the new ownership group.

Chivas USA opens the 2014 MLS season on March 9 when they host the Chicago Fire.