COLUMBUS, Ohio — The Columbus Crew has promoted Issa Tall to the position of General Manager, they announced in a press release, as Tim Bezbatchenko joins the Black Knight Football Club as president.

What You Need To Know

  • The Columbus Crew has promoted Issa Tall to the position of General Manager 

  • This is as Tim Bezbatchenko joins the Black Knight Football Club as president

  • Tall came to Columbus in 2019 as the assistant general manager of player personnel & strategy

  • Bezbatchenko had also been with the team since 2019, when they were acquired by the Haslam Sports Group

“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 Dee and Jimmy Haslam in the release. “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.”

Tall came to Columbus in 2019 as the assistant general manager of player personnel & strategy, and, according to the release, “significantly impacted Club-wide personnel decisions and long-term planning during the past six campaigns.”

Tall said it is an honor to become the team’s new general manager and expressed his thanks to various people including the Haslam family and Bezbatchenko.

“While I’m excited about this opportunity for many reasons, the vision, culture and commitment to excellence we share is at the top of the list,” he said. “Everyone is dedicated to improving and being their best for our team, city and supporters, and I thank Wilfried Nancy, our players and entire technical staff for creating that type of environment as we strive to accomplish our goals.”

Bezbatchenko had also been with the team since 2019, when they were acquired by the Haslam Sports Group. He called the last five years with Columbus remarkable and praised the players, coaches and others he’s worked with over the years.

“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,” he said in the release. “Glory to Columbus!”

The release touts the team’s record, specifically noting the 2020 and 2023 MLS Cup wins as well as the construction of their facilities. It states that the leadership by both men has been “pivotal” to the team’s success.

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