Berhalter Out! Who’s the next best candidate?
With the US-hosted World Cup just two years away now, the US Men’s National team (USMNT) has to scramble a bit. The Berhalter experiment proved wildly unsuccessful, and now it’s time to consider who can seriously lead this next chapter.
Photo Credit: Annegret Hilse
For awhile, a particular ex-Liverpool manager was the most sought after (and ideal candidate). After an initial offer was quickly thrown his way, the USMNT was unfortunately rejected.
The rumor mill is a vicious one though. Following Greg’s departure, the country’s been linked with a number of new potential coaches.
Let’s look at some of the more plausible ones, starting with LAFC’s Steve Cherendulo.
Image by Kirby Lee
In two seasons coaching the Major League Soccer (MLS) side, Cherendulo has accumulated four cup final appearances alongside winning the MLS once.
To hire him would fall in line with what the USMNT likes to do; hire from “within”. Berhalter got his international coaching job shortly after an MLS stint, though not as successful as the former mentioned.
Photo Credit: Simon Heseltine
The frontrunner in the rumor mill is none other than French legend, Patrick Vieira.
An immense midfield presence during his playing days for the likes of Arsenal and Inter, he’s been the most heavily linked to the USMNT. However, he’s not without proper criticism.
Again, Vieira technically falls under this “hire within” mentality with a minor amount of MLS experience. Past this though, the Frenchmen is wildly unsuccessful as a manager. It feels though the USMNT is going more for “big name” then actual big talent with this hire.
His most recent tenure? Leading French side Strasbourg to an astonishing 17th place (out of 20).
Image by John Dorton
With the 2026 World Cup looming (and a lot more expectations than usual as hosts of the tournament), this next coach hire is integral if any hopes of a deep tournament run are to be realized.
Arguably the most talented team this country has produced in years, will they get their guy in time to capitalize?
With two friendlies coming up in September, expect a head coach announcement soon!
