Miami United FC Announces Leadership Evolution for the 2026 Season
Miami United FC has officially unveiled an updated leadership structure as part of its long-term growth strategy heading into the 2026 season. The organizational evolution reflects the club’s ambition to strengthen its professional framework, expand its institutional presence, and continue building a sustainable model both on and off the pitch.
This leadership update represents a structural step forward, reinforcing the club’s commitment to credibility, performance, and long-term development.
Tony Iafrate Appointed Chief Executive Officer
“This next phase is about structure, credibility, and growth,” Iafrate stated. “Our goal is to build a club that is strong on the pitch and influential off the pitch. Every decision we make, from the academy to our global partnerships, is guided by professionalism, ambition, and a long-term vision for sustainable success. We want Miami United FC to set new standards, inspire our players, staff, and fans, and leave a lasting mark on the football world.”
Tony Iafrate transitions from General Manager to Chief Executive Officer (CEO) of Miami United FC. In his new role, he will oversee the club’s overall vision and strategic growth while continuing to supervise the football area.
His responsibilities include commercial and financial development, sponsorships, institutional and political relationships, academy expansion, brand positioning, and the creation of new partnerships with professional clubs across the United States and internationally.
Sebastian D’Angelo Named General Manager and Head of Football Operations
Sebastian D’Angelo has been appointed as General Manager and Head of Football Operations. He will lead the sporting department both on and off the field, focusing on competitive excellence and structural growth.
His role includes overseeing scouting, recruitment, and roster planning, while building and managing a structured scouting network to elevate player identification and long-term squad development. He will also drive the continued professionalization of the club’s football operations.
“My responsibility is to build a professional, competitive, and sustainable football structure,” D’Angelo said. “Every decision, from scouting to operations, must align with a clear vision and long-term standards.”
José Andrés Barrio Promoted to Sporting Director
As part of the leadership evolution, José Andrés Barrio has been promoted to Sporting Director. In this position, he will guide the club’s technical direction and strengthen the player development pathway across all levels.
Barrio will support roster construction, talent evaluation, and ensure that recruitment and development align with the club’s football philosophy.
“Player development and talent identification are at the heart of our project,” Barrio explained. “Every decision, from scouting to roster planning, is guided by a clear philosophy and long-term vision. Our goal is to build a strong football identity at every level of the club.”
Claudio Frean Continues as Head Coach
“We aim to create a clear football identity and a true development pathway, where every player understands the model, the expectations, and the purpose behind the work,” Frean said. “Methodology and performance must move together. That is how a club grows, competes, and produces high-level players consistently.”
At the center of the sporting project remains Head Coach Claudio Frean, whose leadership on the pitch is fundamental to the club’s competitive identity and development model.
Frean will continue leading the first team while working in alignment with the club’s executive and sporting leadership to ensure cohesion between methodology, performance, and long-term growth.
His vision reinforces Miami United’s commitment to building a unified structure where technical direction, scouting, academy development, and first-team performance operate under one clear philosophy.
A Unified Structure for Sustainable Success
With a strengthened executive leadership, a clearly defined football operations department, a reinforced technical direction, and a strong head coach guiding performance on the pitch, Miami United FC enters the 2026 season with a consolidated structure.
This evolution is not simply a change in titles. It is a deliberate step toward long-term sustainability, competitive excellence, and institutional growth.
Miami United FC continues building the future with ambition, professionalism, and a clear identity at every level of the club.
