Gregg Berhalter Out as USMNT Head Coach: Potential Candidates to Replace Him

The United States men’s national team’s early exit from the 2024 Copa América has led to the departure of head coach Gregg Berhalter. The 50-year-old manager has been relieved of his duties following the team’s disappointing performance at this year’s tournament. With just three points in the group stage, the USMNT failed to advance to the quarterfinals, prompting the U.S. Soccer Federation to make a change.

Berhalter took on the role of head coach in 2018 and secured victories in the CONCACAF Nations League, CONCACAF Gold Cup, and a successful run in the 2022 World Cup. However, after five years at the helm, U.S. Soccer has decided to move in a different direction.

The search for a new head coach ahead of the 2026 World Cup, which will be co-hosted by the U.S., Canada, and Mexico, will begin immediately. Speculation is already swirling about potential candidates for the job, with three names standing out as frontrunners.

First up is Steve Cherundolo, a former member of the USMNT and a successful MLS coach with Los Angeles FC. Cherundolo’s immediate success with LAFC, including an MLS Cup win in his first year, makes him a top choice for U.S. Soccer.

Another promising candidate is Jim Curtin, the head coach of the Philadelphia Union in MLS. Curtin’s track record of success in the league, including MLS Coach of the Year honors in 2020 and 2022, makes him a strong contender for the USMNT head coaching position.

Lastly, Hervé Renard, the head coach of France’s national women’s team, brings an impressive resume of elevating national teams to new heights. Renard’s success with Zambia, Ivory Coast, and Morocco make him an intriguing option for U.S. Soccer, although luring him away from his current position may prove challenging.

While Jürgen Klopp, the renowned manager of Liverpool, is considered an honorable mention for the position, his high price point and recent statement about taking a break from coaching make him more of a dream candidate for USMNT fans.

As the search for a new head coach begins, the future of the USMNT hangs in the balance, with fans eagerly anticipating who will lead the team into the upcoming World Cup.