The report says Bezbatchenko is set to return as president of global soccer for Haslam Sports Group, overseeing Columbus Crew, the planned Columbus NWSL 2028 side and other future soccer investments.
That matters because his first spell in Columbus is widely associated with a modern high point for the club.
In plain terms, this looks like a move for continuity and expansion at the same time.
What makes this especially interesting is the scale. This is not just about the men’s first team. The report says Bezbatchenko would also lead the soccer buildout for the future NWSL project, including searches for key leadership roles.
That turns the job into something closer to a portfolio role than a traditional club presidency. Columbus is not simply trying to stay competitive; it appears to be trying to build a connected soccer operation with shared standards, aligned recruitment thinking and long-term planning across multiple projects.
Bezbatchenko’s recent work in a multi-club environment could be a major part of the appeal. Reports suggest that experience gave him another layer of perspective on talent pathways, executive structure and how ambitious ownership groups think globally.
He also returns with a résumé that already carried weight from Toronto FC and MLS roles before his first Columbus stint.
If the appointment proceeds as reported, the next storyline will be how quickly that influence is felt - especially around the Crew’s sporting direction and the first major hires for Columbus NWSL 2028.