The United States Soccer Federation (USSF) has relieved Gregg Berhalter of his duties as head coach of the men’s national team following their disappointing group-stage exit at the Copa America.
This marks a surprising end to Berhalter’s second stint at the helm, which began in June 2023.
The decision comes after the USA, as the tournament host, became the first nation to be eliminated in the group stage. Losses to Panama and Uruguay sealed their fate.
Despite expressing his belief he was the right man for the job, the USSF opted for a change in leadership.
“We are grateful to Gregg for his commitment to the team over the past five years,” said USSF Sporting Director Matt Crocker, acknowledging Berhalter’s role in developing a young squad. “He earned respect within the organization and played a key role in moving the program forward.”
Berhalter’s tenure wasn’t without controversy. In 2022, during his first stint, an investigation arose concerning an incident in his past. The USSF found no legal barriers to his employment, and he guided the team to the 2022 World Cup knockout stage and a Concacaf Nations League victory in 2021. However, his second spell proved short-lived, lasting only 14 matches.
The search for a new head coach to lead the USA into the 2026 World Cup, co-hosted with Canada and Mexico, has already begun. Names like former Liverpool manager Jurgen Klopp have been floated as potential candidates.
