Ben Marcu Appointed as MLS NEXT Technical Director

FA Euro New York is proud to announce the appointment of Ben Marcu as the Club’s new MLS NEXT Technical Director, reinforcing its commitment to building one of the premier player development environments in the United States.

Having been part of FA Euro since the club’s inception, Ben has played an instrumental role in shaping the club’s technical philosophy, culture, and identity. His passion for player development, deep understanding of the game, and unwavering commitment to excellence have helped establish the standards that define FA Euro today.

As MLS NEXT Technical Director, Ben will oversee the club’s MLS NEXT program, working closely with players and coaches to ensure a consistent playing philosophy, elite training environment, and clear pathway for player development. His leadership will be central to maintaining the high standards expected throughout the academy while continuing to prepare players for collegiate, professional, and international opportunities.

“Ben has been with FA Euro since day one and has been instrumental in building the technical foundation of our club,” said Joe Balsamo, President of FA Euro New York. “His knowledge of the game, attention to detail, and commitment to developing young players have helped establish the culture and standards that make FA Euro what it is today. There is no one better suited to lead our MLS NEXT program.”

FA Euro CEO Marco Balsamo reflected on a lifelong friendship that began on the pitch.

“Ben and I have been teammates since we were 11 years old, so I’ve had the privilege of watching him grow into an exceptional coach, mentor, and leader,” said Marco Balsamo. “His football knowledge, professionalism, and dedication to developing players are second to none. Having been with FA Euro from the very beginning, he understands exactly who we are and what we’re building. I couldn’t be more excited to see him lead our MLS NEXT program, and I know he’ll continue to raise the standard for everyone involved.”

Ben Marcu shared his enthusiasm for the opportunity ahead.

“It is a massive privilege to get to step into a technical leadership role at FA Euro. The club is responsible for the dreams of hundreds of elite players and their families. I respect the delicacy of those dreams and the extraordinary work that goes into pursuing them. I’m honored that the club and our players have faith in my ability to help nurture those dreams. The weight of the responsibility is sobering, but the rewards of carrying it well are even greater. Having been at FA Euro since day one, I have been fortunate to watch the club grow into what it is today in the MLS NEXT space. I’ve witnessed the players help us create a unique development culture and the coaches help define our methodology. I feel lucky to get to help further formalize a framework that has already worked so well for so many elite players, and luckier still, to do so working hand-in-hand with our best-in-class staff. MLS NEXT is the highest level of youth soccer in the country at a time when US Soccer is redefining its place among the world’s elite. We are proud to be a part of that development arc and are committed to creating an environment that challenges, inspires, and prepares our players to succeed at every stage of their development.”

Ben’s appointment represents another important step in FA Euro’s long-term vision of becoming one of the top MLS NEXT clubs in the country. Through continued investment in exceptional leadership, elite coaching, and a professional, player-centered environment, the club is committed to providing every athlete with the opportunity to maximize their potential. FA Euro’s ambition is not simply to compete alongside the nation’s best academies, but to establish itself among them, developing complete players, complete people, and a clear pathway to the highest levels of the game.