COLUMBUS, Ohio — Columbus Crew President and General Manager Tim Bezbatchenko is leaving the Black and Gold for a new job with Black Knight Football.
The Crew's assistant general manager, Issa Tall, will take over the job.
“In addition to having strong relationships with Wilfried Nancy, our players and staff, Issa is highly qualified to be our General Manager as one of MLS’ most respected soccer executives based on his time with the Crew, Toronto FC and the league office, as well as FIFA headquarters,” said owners Dee and Jimmy Haslam in a statement. “While some midseason transitions present challenges, we are confident Issa’s vast experience and familiarity with our Club’s personnel and long-term strategy will seamlessly allow us to continue our success in 2024 and the future."
Bezbatchenko, a Westerville native, became president and general manager of the Crew in January 2019.
“The past five-plus years with the Crew have been nothing short of remarkable. It was truly special to help launch a new era for the Club with an exciting brand of soccer and the ambition to win trophies for our city and supporters who have long stood by this team,” Bezbatchenko said in a statement released by the Crew.
While serving in his role, the Crew claimed two MLS Cups in the past four seasons (2020 and 2023) and a 2021 Campeones Cup. Bezbatchenko became the first chief soccer officer in franchise history to win multiple MLS cups, the third CSO in MLS history with three or more league championships and the second in the role to claim a title with multiple clubs.
"While I am excited about pursuing this next endeavor with Black Knight Football, I will always be thankful for the time and memories together with the Crew community. Glory to Columbus!”
Bezbatchenko joined Columbus after serving as senior vice president of soccer operations and general manager for Toronto FC from 2013 to 2018. He was also the senior director of player relations and competition for MLS from 2010 to 2013.
“Tim was integral to our success the past five years and positioning our team to consistently compete for championships moving forward. We wish him, Annie and their family the best as they start this new chapter in their lives,” the Haslams added.
The Crew will host a press conference at 2 p.m. Friday to formally introduce Tall as the club's new GM.
“It’s an honor to become the General Manager of the Columbus Crew, especially knowing firsthand the great people, history and fans of our Club. I’m incredibly grateful to the Haslam, Johnson and Edwards families for this new role, as well as their and Tim Bezbatchenko’s significant contributions to the Club’s and my growth since joining Columbus,” said Tall.
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