The news of Patrick Vieira leaving his head coaching gig with Strasbourg has caught the attention of United States men’s national team fans. The French manager is one of the top prospects for the vacant USMNT job.
Vieira managed Strasbourg for one season, finishing 13th in Ligue 1. The two have now mutually parted ways with the club thanking him for their short time together.
Patrick Vieira leaves Strasbourg
OFFICIAL STATEMENT:
Racing Club de Strasbourg Alsace and Patrick Vieira have ended their collaboration by mutual agreement. pic.twitter.com/wqz4o0q0o8— Racing Club de Strasbourg Alsace English (@RCSA_English) July 18, 2024
Vieira’s decision to leave Strasbourg comes just a week after he was asked about the USMNT. He responded that his concentration was “100% on Strasbourg” and the upcoming Ligue 1 season.
We wonder where that concentration is at now.
Patrick Vieira was asked about USMNT interest today in a preseason interview.
"The United States? Oh no, my concentration is 100% in Alsace," smiled the coach, who still has two years left on his contract with the Strasbourg club. https://t.co/AFIz1PZQwr— Daniel (@DanielSmith1022) July 12, 2024
While Vieira is one of the sought-after candidates for the U.S. job, he’s not highly desired by all USMNT fans. Vieira was a legendary player but has yet to reach the same heights as a manager.
He’s never managed an international team before and hasn't led any of his senior clubs to a trophy as head coach since he began in 2016. His stints with New York City FC, Nice, Crystal Palace and Strasbourg all lasted two years or less.
Still, several pundits like Taylor Twellman view Vieira as the guy to turn things around for the USMNT in time for the 2026 World Cup.
.@TaylorTwellman on the USMNT head coach opening ️
“There’s one name that I’ve said from the beginning that has a real interest in this, and that’s Patrick Vieira. He won a World Cup as a player. He loves the American player.But he also walks into that room and every single… pic.twitter.com/aBH9TPGzyV
— USMNT Only (@usmntonly) July 17, 2024
Vieira is one of several big names linked to fill Gregg Berhalter’s place as USMNT head coach.
