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Let the USMNT head coach hunt begin.
The bomb dropped and the predictable (and in many cases wished-upon) sacking of former U.S. men’s national team coach Gregg Berhalter hit the wall, with the USMNT announcing the American manager’s firing just nine days after the national team’s embarrassing exit from the 2024 Copa América.
Gregg Berhalter has been relieved of his duties, effective immediately » https://t.co/sHi1ss2QDe pic.twitter.com/pkHAiCRGnP
— U.S. Soccer Men's National Team (@USMNT) July 10, 2024
The Berhalter era is over.
After six years with Berhalter as the only permanent head coach of the USMNT since his appointment in 2018, fans and media outlets have began speculating over the possible candidates present in the option pool for the United States Soccer Federation (USSF).
Several high-profile candidates, ranging from previous stints in some of Europe’s biggest clubs, to those of Major League Soccer and even the international scene, have emerged as potential leaders to guide the team into the highly-anticipated 2026 FIFA World Cup on home soil.
Here are some of our most notable contenders:
Possible head coach candidates for the USMNT following Berhalter sacking
Hervé Renard
Hervé Renard has proven an envy-worthy track record of success on the international stage. Renard has demonstrated his ability to transform teams, notably leading Zambia and Ivory Coast to African Cup of Nations titles in 2012 and 2015, respectively.
He most recently led Saudi Arabia at the 2022 World Cup, obtaining a historic turnaround victory against eventual champions Argentina. His experience in managing diverse squads make him well-suited to handle the evolving and multicultural USMNT player pool.
Renard currently manages the French women’s national team.
Luis de la Fuente
Luis de la Fuente has a track record unlike any other international manager in the world.
After leading Spain to the Euro 2024 title, the Spaniard became the only head coach to ever win the U-19 Euros, U-21 Euros, the Nations League and European Championship.
It was reported that de la Fuente is interested in the USMNT managing position, with his representatives reaching out ot the U.S. Soccer Federation just three days before the Euro 2024 final.
Only time will tell if this is at all accurate or possible.
Patrick Vieira
Patrick Vieira, an Arsenal legend, has made a name for himself in coaching with interesting stints at New York City FC in MLS and Crystal Palace in the Premier League, amongst others.
Vieira's experience in both MLS and in Europe, coupled with his ability to manage high-profile players and illustrious career as captain in top European clubs and the French national team, makes him an attractive candidate.
Vieira currently manages Ligue 1 club Strasbourg and was quick to deny all links placing him with the USMNT, saying he's focusing on leading the Ligue 1 club next season.
Steve Cherundolo
Steve Cherundolo, a former USMNT player, has been gaining coaching experience in both the U.S. and Germany, becoming one of the hottest managers in Major League Soccer.
Currently at Los Angeles FC in MLS, Cherundolo had had successful past couple of MLS seasons — reaching two MLS Cup finals and lifting both the MLS Cup and Supporters’ Shield in 2022.
Following the USMNT’s elimination from Copa América, Cherundolo was placed as the USSF's ‘favorite candidate’ to replace Gregg Berhalter. His deep history with U.S. soccer and his international experience as both player and youth manager could be assets that the USSF considers valuable.
Jürgen Klopp
Does he need an introduction?
His record of success at the highest levels of European football, his charismatic leadership and his ability to develop young talent would without a doubt take the national team to the next level.
Klopp's winning experience with Borussia Dortmund and Liverpool has showcased his skill in building cohesive, high-performing teams capable of competing for top honors, though with the price of time and a lengthy tenure (something to consider in a potential two-year working period ahead of the World Cup).
His high-energy, pressing style of play could invigorate the USMNT's young generation, hoping to inspire both players, fans and culture of the United States to the highly-anticipated ‘next level’ in the world of soccer.
Klopp is clearly one of the USMNT's top targets with reports that the federation has already reached out to the German. Unfortunately Klopp's interest doesn't seem too high at the moment.
Jurgen Klopp has rebuffed approach to become USA head coach. Initial contact through intermediaries last week but opportunity politely declined; reiterated to #USMNT bosses former #LFC manager wants break from football @TheAthleticFC post @MiguelDelaney https://t.co/QWxxiBHzrI
— David Ornstein (@David_Ornstein) July 11, 2024
