U.S. Men's National Team Gains Validation and Looks Ahead

U.S. Soccer named Gregg Berhalter head coach of the U.S. Men's National Team on June 16, 2023, tasking him with leading the squad to the 2026 FIFA World Cup on home soil.

Berhalter became the first American to take part in a World Cup as both a player and a head coach.

Sporting director Matt Crocker ran an extensive worldwide search using data analytics, psychological testing, and practical evaluations before selecting him, saying he was confident Berhalter was the right person for the job.

Over four years and 60 matches Berhalter compiled a 37 win, 11 loss, 12 draw record, won two confederation titles, and reached the 2022 World Cup Round of 16 with the youngest player pool in program history.

Interim coach B.J. Callaghan continued through the Gold Cup and the Nations League final, where the U.S. captured the CONCACAF Nations League title.

Berhalter said he was grateful to build on the team's World Cup achievements during an exciting time for American soccer.

The validation lasted thirteen months; the home World Cup lasted five games. Gregg Berhalter was fired on July 10, 2024 after the Copa América group exit. Mauricio Pochettino topped Group D, beat Bosnia, then took the United States only as far as a four goals to one Round of 16 loss to Belgium on July 7, the fourth exit at that stage in the last five World Cups, per ESPN. Christian Pulisic alone gave the ball away 11 times in the first half. The federation answered with a contract through 2030 on August 4, per ESPN. The next cycle opens against Peru in Orlando on September 26, with Mexico and Canada waiting in October.