The United States Soccer Federation has made the decision to part ways with head coach Gregg Berhalter in the wake of the team’s premature exit from the Copa America following losses to Panama and Uruguay. This disappointing showing marked the first time a host nation was eliminated in the group phase of the tournament. Matt Crocker, the sporting director of the United States Soccer Federation, expressed deep gratitude to Gregg for his dedication over the past five years, emphasizing his role in fostering a cohesive and forward-moving environment within the men’s national team.
“We are deeply grateful to Gregg for his commitment the past five years to the men’s national team and to US soccer,” said United States Soccer Federation sporting director Matt Crocker.
“Gregg has earned the respect of everyone within our organisation and has played a pivotal role in bringing together a young team and moving the program forward.”
Amidst speculation linking former Liverpool manager Jurgen Klopp to the vacant managerial position, Crocker indicated that the process to identify a new head coach is already underway. Additionally, it’s worth noting that the USA is set to co-host the 2026 World Cup alongside Canada and Mexico, adding further significance to the upcoming managerial appointment.
Berhalter, who served two separate stints as head coach, faced scrutiny during his second tenure due to previous conduct. An investigation into his past behavior in 2022 led to the end of his first spell in charge, as he admitted to having kicked his wife when they were teenagers. While this revelation prompted an inquiry by US Soccer, it ultimately concluded that there were no legal barriers to his continued employment.
During his initial spell, the USA achieved a commendable last 16 finish in the 2022 World Cup in Qatar and secured victory in the Concacaf Nations League Gold Cup in 2021. However, his second stint came to an abrupt conclusion after just 14 matches, with the 1-0 loss to Uruguay serving as a pivotal moment in his tenure. Notably, following this defeat, Berhalter expressed his conviction in leading the team to the 2026 World Cup despite the challenging circumstances.
The developments surrounding Gregg Berhalter’s departure as head coach have sent reverberations through the world of soccer, raising questions and uncertainties for the future of the men’s national team. As the search for his successor commences, all eyes will be on the new leadership that will guide the team into the highly anticipated 2026 World Cup.
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