McGuinness is renowned for his talent-spotting prowess, credited with identifying key signings like Lucas Zelarayan, Cucho Hernandez, Diego Rossi, and Darlington Nagbe for the Columbus Crew, as well as playing a role in Celtic FC’s acquisition of Virgil van Dijk during his tenure with the Scottish Premier League club.
In 2019, McGuinness joined the Columbus Crew as the Director of Scouting and Player Recruitment. Prior to this, he served as a Senior Player Recruiter at the Qatar Football Association from 2015 to 2018, focusing on identifying talent for the Qatar National Team. Additionally, McGuinness worked as a scout at the Qatar Aspire Academy and provided consultancy services to various teams across Europe, Mexico, and Saudi Arabia.
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His move to LAFC positions him as their second-in-command, operating under Chief Soccer Officer and Co-President John Thorrington. McGuinness emerged as the top candidate for the role, reportedly surpassing Andy Howe of Newcastle United from the English Premier League.
During his tenure with the Crew, McGuinness played a pivotal role in securing two MLS Cups (in 2020 and 2023), with the players he recruited contributing significantly to the team’s success. Columbus is currently positioned fifth in the Eastern Conference, while LAFC occupies the seventh spot in the West. Notably, Columbus defeated LAFC 2-1 in the 2023 MLS Cup Final.
LAFC is gearing up for a busy summer transfer window, with plans to add French forward Olivier Giroud to their roster. A rematch between LAFC and the Columbus Crew, set for July 13, 2024, at BMO Field, promises to be a highlight amidst their respective seasons.
