“I think this is an important window for the respective national teams all across the world as they prepare in the final window for the World Cup,” Berhalter replied to Bolavip during his pre-match press conference ahead of the MLS clash against the Philadelphia Union.

“We have (Mbekezeli) Mbokazi going with South Africa. We have Joel (Waterman) with Canada and Chris Brady with the United States. We’ll have other youth levels and potentially others at the senior level,” Berhalter added.

“For the group, for those players, we’re proud of them. I think it’s a culmination of hard work over a long period of time to get the call-ups.“

Gregg Berhalter says it’s ‘amazing’ to be supporting Sebastian

Apart from addressing the call-ups for Chicago Fire players, Berhalter addressed his son, Sebastian, being selected to represent the USA.

“For Sebastian, you know, on an individual level as a parent, it’s amazing to be supporting him all this time, and have him start the season so well, and then get called into camp. There’s still a lot of work to be done, but hopefully he continues to perform well,” he added.

This marks the fourth time Sebastian Berhalter gets called up to the USMNT, having made his debut in 2025. It was a sensational year for the midfielder, who helped the USA reach the Concacaf Gold Cup final with two assists in five starts before scoring his first international goal during a statement 5-1 win over Uruguay in November.

Berhalter, who already boasts nine caps with the USMNT, has been in excellent form for the Vancouver Whitecaps. Voted player of the year in 2025, he picked up right where he left off by leading the team in goal contributions (three goals, four assists) in 2026.

The USMNT’s March fixtures

Sebastian Berhalter will now meet with Chicago Fire goalkeeper Chris Brady in Atlanta as both report to the USMNT, hoping to challenge for a World Cup spot.

The United States will face two top-10 FIFA-ranked European opponents at Mercedes-Benz Stadium, first hosting Belgium on Saturday, March 28 before taking on Cristiano Ronaldo’s Portugal on Tuesday, March 31.

“Yeah, you know, I think all players that are playing right now understand that their performances will be directly linked to their call-up. If they’re playing well, they have a very good chance of getting called into camp,” Berhalter said when asked by Bolavip about his thoughts on Brady’s form and his USMNT prospects.

“So, for Chris, for him to play well in the beginning of the season, all the games so far, to start getting these clean sheets, I thought building out of the back, he was very good against Columbus. So that’s a good sign,” Berhalter added, backing his goalkeeper.

“Obviously, the final decision is going to come down to the coaching staff, but all players can do is put in good performances week after week.“

Chris Brady’s form in 2026 MLS season with Chicago Fire

Brady, who turned 22 on March 3, was named to the MLS Team of the Matchday following his four-save shutout in Chicago‘s goalless draw against the Columbus Crew on Matchday 3.

It was the second consecutive clean sheet for the Naperville native, whose form makes him a candidate to get a USMNT call-up this month. The young goalie already has experience training with the Stars and Stripes, even though he has yet to make an official appearance with the senior national team.

Brady’s USMNT experience and chances

After being called up to the senior roster for training camp in June and making the 2025 Concacaf Gold Cup squad, Brady returned to the USMNT for training camp in October 2025.

The starting spot appears to be locked in for New York City FC’s Matt Freese, whereas veteran New England Revolution keeper Matt Turner is also expected to make the World Cup. The third spot might be up for grabs, with Patrick Schulte of the Columbus Crew in contention.

But if Brady keeps up with this strong start to the year, it shouldn’t be a surprise to see the Chicago Fire sensation get a chance before the final cut for the big tournament.

“I love it,“ Berhalter replied to Bolavip at a press conference before Chicago‘s MLS game against the Columbus Crew. “I mean, that’s the mentality we need, right? We go into any tournament, and you believe you can win. And I think that’s the most important thing for the mindset of any group entering a tournament.

“Because, in reality, anything is possible, right? In theory, on any given day, we can beat any team in the world. So, you know, when you get to through the group, and hopefully we will, it’s a knockout phase, and it really is about the day, the form of the day. So, you know, I’m excited at that statement. I think it shows intention,” Berhalter continued.

“The group has had World Cup experience, the majority of that group. So they understand what a World Cup is like. We’ll have the home fans behind us, and I think it’s a great mindset to go into the World Cup with.”

Berhalter, of course, is very familiar with the USMNT roster, having coached the Stars and Stripes until 2024. With him at the helm, the USA reached the round of 16 at the 2022 World Cup in Qatar (Netherlands won that game 3-1 before losing in the quarterfinals to eventual champions Argentina).

What Pochettino told President Trump about the USA’s World Cup mindset

With the tournament taking place in North America this year, all eyes will be on whether Pochettino can lead the team further on home soil. The Argentine-born manager appears to have enough confidence to do so.

During a recent appearance on The High Performance Podcast, Pochettino shed light into a conversation with President Donald Trump about the USA’s chances at the 2026 World Cup.

“At the draw of the World Cup, I met Donald Trump for a few minutes. He asked me, ‘What do you think coach? Can you win the World Cup?’ I said, ‘Of course, Mr. President’. Because it’s the USA. The American dream is there. The American culture is about being first, being number one,” Pochettino said.

“When we accepted the challenge to go there, it was because we really believe that we can win (the World Cup). After a year and a half working there, people start to feel that we can win. The last few camps in October and November… we competed against very good teams and we started to show that possibility to perform well.

“We are going to have the support of a massive country and all its fans. To try and push us to run, score goals, and make tackles. I think that will be a massive boost for us,” Pochettino added.

The USMNT’s form ahead of 2026 World Cup

Riding on a five-game unbeaten run, the USMNT has been in promising form as of late, boasting 14 wins in its last 22 appearances. On top of that, it took down the likes of Uruguay and Paraguay in November, boosting the country’s hopes. Paraguay will be one of the USA’s group stage opponents at the 2026 World Cup, with Australia and the UEFA Playoff C winner completing Group D.

According to Tom Bogert, Berhalter is reportedly a finalist for the sporting director role with the Chicago Fire but could also take on a dual role, which would mean that he could return to coaching. The Fire reportedly spoke to Berhalter, and the coach is considering the position.

Berhalter is also reportedly a candidate for the San Jose Earthquakes job, but neither position is considered prestigious in MLS circles, as both teams have struggled significantly over the last few years.

Gregg Berhalter’s Coaching Profile

Gregg Berhalter’s coaching style is characterized by a strong emphasis on tactical organization, possession-based play, and player development. He prioritizes a high-pressing system that encourages players to win the ball back quickly, fostering an attacking mindset. Berhalter also values versatility, often deploying players in multiple positions to maximize their skills and adaptability on the field.

Communication and relationships are key elements of his approach; he believes in building a cohesive team culture where players understand their roles and responsibilities. Additionally, Berhalter focuses on instilling a sense of accountability and professionalism among his players, ensuring they are mentally prepared for high-pressure situations.

In two stints with the USMNT, Gregg Berhalter achieved a 44-17-13 record and guided the team to a round of 16 run at the 2022 FIFA World Cup. He also won the CONCACAF Nations League titles in 2019–20 and 2023–24, as well as the CONCACAF Gold Cup in 2021.

After a disastrous Copa America and months of poor play, the federation had no choice but to fire Gregg Berhalter. With the fanbase and media showcasing an all-time low in morale towards US Soccer, Matt Crocker, US Soccer’s sporting director, needed to dig deep and find a manager who could reinvigorate the nation. Mauricio Pochettino fulfills fan desires and the media’s optimum in almost every category.

Pochettino has quickly become the most significant USMNT managerial hire since Bora Milutinović in 1991. Here is a review of what sources have told Bolavip about the hiring of Pochettino and the program he has inherited.

Process to Bring Pochettino to USMNT

A source from Argentina has confirmed to Bolavip that Pochettino had been a candidate from the start, given his past relationship with Matt Crocker. Initially, the Argentine was not interested, hoping to stay in Europe and continue his career in top European club soccer.

That began to change with the insistence of Matt Crocker and as terms were discussed. Additionally, there wasn’t a major opportunity in Europe for the Argentine, who most recently managed Tottenham, PSG, and Chelsea.

A strong group of American players playing in Europe, a healthy purse from his previous two jobs, and the possibility of what it would mean for the USMNT to make a deep run in the World Cup eventually swayed the manager to take a major risk and leave the elite of European club soccer to guide a program looking to finally break out.

Various reports are conflicting as to the length of the deal, but overall it is expected to be a two-year contract.

A Look Back at USMNT Coaches Post-Italy ’90

After the USMNT made it to the 1990 World Cup in Italy, the last crop of modern-day US coaches have had some success in taking the program forward.

Bora Milutinović

Bora Milutinović coached the US from 1991 until 1995. The Serbian had a history of taking small nations, mostly from CONCACAF, and exceeding expectations. With a handful of players in lower European leagues and the rest of his team either in college or not attached to any clubs, Bora basically coached the US as a traveling club team to prepare for the 1994 World Cup.

Eventually, Bora won the CONCACAF Gold Cup in 1991 and led the USMNT to the Round of 16 at the 1994 World Cup, recording an upset victory over Colombia (2-1) and holding eventual champions Brazil to a 1-0 defeat. Bora’s record was 30-35-31.

Steve Sampson

Steve Sampson inherited the job as US manager after leading the USMNT to the semifinals of the 1995 Copa America. Along the way, Sampson recorded major victories over Argentina, various big wins against Mexico, and the program’s only win against Brazil.

Under Sampson, the manager had to endure the dawn of MLS, with many of his European-based players returning to help the league get off the ground, and a scandal involving team captain John Harkes having an affair with Eric Wynalda’s wife. The handling of that incident and decisions taken before the 1998 World Cup led to a broken US squad going 0-3 at France ’98. Sampson’s record was 26-22-14.

Bruce Arena

In two stints as USMNT manager, Bruce Arena has been one of the most influential coaches in moving the program forward. After major success with DC United in MLS, Arena was given the job after a horrific 1998 World Cup.

Arena elevated the US program, consolidating Brian McBride, Eddie Pope, and Claudio Reyna as the program’s backbone while nurturing the young talents of Landon Donovan, DaMarcus Beasley, and John O’Brien.

Arena won three CONCACAF Gold Cups in his two stints, led the USMNT to the quarterfinals of the 2002 World Cup, defeating Portugal and Mexico in the process. Arena also recorded major wins over Germany and Argentina as manager.

Eventually, after taking the US to fourth in the FIFA Rankings, a poor 2006 World Cup marked the end of his run. In 2017, he returned as manager to help try to salvage a poor start to World Cup qualifying for the 2018 World Cup, but ultimately the team came up short and failed to qualify for Russia. Arena holds an 81-32-35 record and is tied as the all-time winningest manager of the USMNT in terms of titles (3).

Bob Bradley

Bob Bradley took over from Arena and led the USMNT from 2007 to 2011. A very pragmatic coach, the US was not fancy under Bradley but rather a strong athletic team that played on the counter.

Under Bradley, the team scrapped a lot of wins and, to many observers, lacked creativity. However, he managed to guide the team to a Round of 16 appearance at the World Cup in South Africa in 2010, won a Gold Cup in 2007, and finished second in a Confederations Cup, beating Spain in the process. Bradley was eventually fired from his position after losing the 2011 Gold Cup final to Mexico in spectacular fashion. His record with the US stands at 43-25-12.

Jürgen Klinsmann

The biggest name to coach the US until now came to the country with a lot of promises and expectations. In an effort to push the team towards a much more fluid style and shed the image of a boring, pragmatic team, US Soccer turned to Jürgen Klinsmann.

Despite his philosophical talk of Americans pushing themselves in Europe and courting dual nationals, Klinsmann’s tenure had many ups and downs. The team rarely played the fluid, attacking soccer the German preached. Despite recording friendly wins over Italy, Germany, and the Netherlands, the US struggled against big-time opponents in tournaments.

Klinsmann led the USMNT to a Round of 16 run at the World Cup in 2014, losing to Germany and Belgium along the way. In 2016, a semifinal run at the Copa America provided a lot of celebration, but the US lost twice to Colombia and was manhandled by Argentina in the semifinal.

Amid issues with US Soccer and the players, Klinsmann was fired after dropping the first two World Cup qualifying games for Russia 2018. Klinsmann’s record stands at 55-27-16.

Gregg Berhalter

One of the most controversial hires in the program’s history, Gregg Berhalter took over the USMNT in 2018 with a lackluster resume and allegations of nepotism. Berhalter preached that he would install a methodology of playing out of the back and fluid soccer, which never materialized during his tenure as USMNT manager.

Despite failing to deliver on his promise of attractive soccer, Gregg Berhalter was tasked with repositioning the program after the embarrassment of missing the 2018 World Cup. He took a group of talented but unproven players like Christian Pulisic, Tyler Adams, Weston McKennie, and Tim Weah and converted them into leaders of the USMNT.

Due to calendar saturation due to CONCACAF adding two Gold Cups and a Nations League per cycle, the USMNT often played opponents in their region. The end result was padded stats and no real measuring stick for the coach or the players.

The result was a Jekyll-and-Hyde team that, in CONCACAF, won 2 Nations Leagues and a Gold Cup under Gregg Berhalter. However, when it came to opponents from South America or teams in Europe, the US struggled.

A Round of 16 exit from the 2022 World Cup was a mixed bag. The team played its best soccer at the World Cup, but issues regarding favoritism towards some players, exposure of his poor relationship with Gio Reyna, Reyna’s parents exposing a domestic violence incident involving Gregg Berhalter’s future wife from almost 30 years ago, and a sense that the team had achieved all it could suggested that Gregg Berhalter’s time with the US was done.

Inexplicably, Gregg Berhalter was rehired as the USMNT coach after two interim coaches led the team in a Nations League, which the US won, and Gold Cup. His second stint as manager was poor; the team was lifeless and would eventually be grouped in the 2024 Copa America. Gregg Berhalter’s record stands at 44-17-13.

On paper, Gregg Berhalter should have been a reasonable hire for the US position, a former US international who established a very good career in Europe playing in the Netherlands, England, and Germany before arriving to end his career in MLS. On the USMNT as a player, history might have made Gregg Berhalter one of the most important players in the program’s history; it was his almost-goal against Germany in the USMNT’s 2002 World Cup quarterfinal match that was called off. To this day, no one knows why—whether it was a US goal or a German handball. The end result was the USMNT’s elimination after providing Americans with the country’s best World Cup performance in the modern era.

Known for his obsessive tactical approach to the game and his work in sports psychology, Gregg Berhalter reportedly wowed US Soccer with his vision for the program. When the 50-year-old was named as manager of the USMNT, it was met with universal disapproval by fans and pundits, and his tag as a “nepo” hire loomed large in his six years in charge.

US Soccer Set Gregg Berhalter Up to Fail

If Gregg Berhalter was what the program believed him to be, it might have been wise to shield him from the backlash. On paper, he was just getting his feet wet with the Columbus Crew, making an MLS Cup final after a below-average stint with Hammarby in Sweden where he posted an 18-11-17 record.

With the Crew, Berhalter also was a mixed bag of 74-70-49, making the playoffs in four of his five seasons, being runner-up in 2015. In his last season, 2018, he made it to the quarterfinals.

Had Berhalter been hired as an assistant and molded by a more experienced coach, maybe for the 2026 cycle he could have taken over the team and embarked on a more polished project of making the USMNT a more attractive side than the bunker and counter-attacking team the program was known for.

What Did Gregg Berhalter Get Right?

While many would argue that Gregg Berhalter got nothing right, that is far from the truth. Berhalter was able to take a program that had hit rock bottom after failing to qualify for the 2018 World Cup and lift it up on the backs of a group of young players all in their early 20s with a few European seasons under their belts to be the core of the team.

Though flawed in tactics and in-game management, Berhalter empowered Christian Pulisic, Tim Weah, Tyler Adams, and Weston McKennie to be leaders on the team. Although questions have arisen about whether some of the players were or are up to that challenge.

While World Cup qualifying was rocky in Concacaf, especially considering his inexperienced side in the 2022 cycle, Berhalter’s team played the best three games of his six years at the 2022 World Cup, going 1-0-2 in the group, defeating Iran and drawing England and Wales.

At times, the USMNT showed fluid movement and nice combination play, but once the team played a more polished and experienced side like the Netherlands, it was all she wrote—the Dutch made short work of the USMNT in a 3-1 win in the round of 16. All in all, it was about as good as a World Cup as one could ask from a nation that four years earlier was sliding down a hole, fast.

Off the field, Berhalter and his team were able to convince various dual nationals to join the program, Antonee Robinson, Yunus Musah, Folarin Balogun, and Sergiño Dest being his best catches, many of whom had represented the US at the youth level but had viable options to play for other, more established countries.

He also got lucky as Johnny Cardoso and his family took it upon themselves to inform US Soccer of their existence. To his credit, Berhalter brought Cardoso into the fold, given the federation’s notoriously poor history at even engaging dual nationals playing in South America.

While many of the dual nationals were also in their early 20s, a critique can be made that it has become US Soccer’s crutch to just find dual nationals to fill the void left behind by a program that is struggling to produce high-level talent at the MLS and US territory level.

What Did Gregg Berhalter Do Wrong?

Gregg Berhalter never was able to read the room, at times in his press conferences over explaining every decision he made, from leaving Ricardo Pepi off of the World Cup roster to going into detail as to why John Brooks was not called in.

His biggest failure was the whole situation with Gio Reyna post-World Cup, exposing one of his most talented players, which eventually would end in personal issues from Gregg Berhalter’s past being exposed and also tarnishing the reputation of another USMNT legend Claudio Reyna in exposing the “soccer parent” aspect of US Soccer.

On the field, Berhalter’s US team never lived up to expectations of a team that played fancy and fluid soccer. Often being exposed by more talented teams, and having enormous difficulties winning on the road against Concacaf level opposition.

Gregg Berhalter’s in-game management was also questionable, often having many of his game plans blow up in his face, and many times needing come-from-behind wins in key matches.

After the 2022 World Cup, one could say Gregg Berhalter’s stock was high, reaching the round of 16, holding England to a draw and looking good doing it, and having won two Concacaf continental titles, and owning Mexico, the manager could have walked into the sunset as a manager who put US Soccer, while flawed at times, back on the map.

Instead, Gregg Berhalter stayed on after a ridiculous coaching search conducted by the federation to land back at Berhalter almost six months after he left the program. His second stint was vastly underwhelming, winning seven games, losing six, and drawing just one.

Berhalter’s record against top 20 teams not named Mexico was abysmal, with highlights being draws against England, Uruguay, and Brazil being considered “milestones”.

The Gregg Berhalter Era

Time will eventually put Gregg Berhalter in his place as a manager who was under qualified to coach the USMNT at the time he was hired and who helped the team punch above their weight at the 2022 World Cup.

Not being able to get the most out of a generation of US players playing in some of the top leagues in the world, but also having to manage those young players while many of them were non-factors at those clubs at times.

It was not a perfect road for Gregg Berhalter, but he still managed to win three championships with the USMNT, making him, along with Bruce Arena, as the program’s all-time winningest manager when it comes to titles.

Gregg Berhalter’s era can best be described as “getting back on track”, but when fans, media, and even the players themselves began to demand the team play to a much higher standard, Gregg Berhalter came up way too short.

According to Fox Sports, Gregg Berhalter‘s fate will be determined later this week, with an expected dismissal looming. However, some reports still indicate uncertainty about whether US Soccer is truly ready to end the Gregg Berhalter era.

Reporter Doug McIntyre recently spoke with former USMNT player turned digital creator Jimmy Conrad, and reported that LAFC boss Steve Cherundolo “ticks a lot of boxes” as a potential candidate. This sparked immediate fan backlash, with many perceiving it as a continuation of the status quo.

Steve Cherundolo’s Coaching Record

The USMNT is in dire need of change, potentially starting with parting ways with Gregg Berhalter to rebuild their public image. The relationship between US Soccer and its fans is at an all-time low. While fans may favor a high-profile international manager, a source from Germany informed Bolavip that Jürgen Klopp is “not interested” in the USMNT position.

There are also unconventional candidates like Marcelo Gallardo available, but according to another source speaking to Bolavip, US Soccer is wary that an international manager might demand substantial compensation without a guaranteed commitment to success.

The traditionally conservative US Soccer Federation may now consider former USMNT international Steve Cherundolo to step into the void. Cherundolo boasts a commendable coaching record at LAFC, with a two-season tenure marked by a 65-19-32 record, including an MLS Cup and Supporters Shield. On paper, he appears a more accomplished manager than Berhalter.

However, many fans remain cautious about Cherundolo’s tactical approach against stronger opponents than LAFC. There is also speculation that Cherundolo’s name was floated to gauge fan reaction, which has predominantly been negative.

One thing is certain: US Soccer is poised to make a significant decision. Even if Berhalter is dismissed, selecting his successor will be crucial in restoring fan confidence in the USMNT.

Gregg Berhalter’s overall record as coach of the USMNT is 44-17-13. On paper, that’s not bad. The problem arises when you dissect it further. While Gregg Berhalter did win three continental titles with the USMNT, the biggest one, the Copa America, was an utter disaster as his team struggled more and more to generate chances as the tournament progressed.

If Gregg Berhalter is indeed fired, who can step in and take over the national team? It’s a question that can be answered by some of the names currently circulating.

Pellegrino Matarazzo

Pellegrino Matarazzo, a New Jersey native, is currently on his third coaching job in Germany. It’s admirable for an American to have been given three chances to coach in Germany, but despite a bunker-ball style and experience in relegation fights, Pellegrino Matarazzo hasn’t really proven himself in coaching big matches at major competitions. His contract with TSG Hoffenheim, where he has a record of 20-23-9, ends in June 2025.

David Wagner

Former dual-national David Wagner has been primarily based in England. His tenure at Huddersfield Town was considered his best work, earning promotion to the Premier League. Wagner’s last coaching stint was with Norwich City, where he was sacked after failing to secure Premier League promotion. Wagner’s overall managerial record is 170-182-121.

Wilfried Nancy

In just four years in MLS, Wilfried Nancy has become one of the league’s top coaches. Nancy helped turn CF Montréal around despite ownership issues, but it was with the Columbus Crew where he made his mark, particularly for his tactical acumen, a rarity in MLS. Nancy has won one Canadian Championship and one MLS Cup, and led the Crew to a CONCACAF Champions League final, defeating teams like Tigres and Monterrey.

Jim Curtin

The long-standing head coach of the Philadelphia Union knows the American soccer landscape inside out, having worked with many USMNT players and reaching the MLS Cup in 2022. However, Curtin has yet to translate his strong regular season performances and talent development into championships.

Marcelo Gallardo (out of the park hire)

The Argentine coach is currently available after parting ways with Saudi Pro League side Al-Ittihad. It was Gallardo’s toughest stint as a manager; prior to that, he led River Plate to 14 championships and secured his first coaching title with Nacional in Uruguay. Gallardo has been named South American Manager of the Year three times (2018, 2019, 2020).

Why would Gallardo consider the USMNT job? His son plays for Atlanta United’s reserve team, and despite his success in South America, major European clubs have not come calling.

With just two years to prepare the USMNT for the World Cup, Gallardo’s expertise in knockout competitions could propel the team to significant success, fulfilling his ambition to achieve a European football destination after the World Cup.

Then there are the boys, the USMNT players who boast of playing in some of the top leagues in the world, yet many have never truly measured up to their polished club status. Since the return of Gregg Berhalter, the USMNT has produced a meager 7-6-1 record, showing a team on a downward spiral for well over the last year. Now, it seems that the U.S. Soccer Federation may have no choice but to make a change.

Pundits such as Charlie Davies, Tony Meola, Clint Dempsey, Jimmy Conrad, Nico Cantor, Hérculez Gómez, Sebastian Salazar, as well as online vloggers like Tactical Manager and 11Yanks have been adamant that Berhalter’s time with the team is past. To make matters worse for the 50-year-old manager, even past supporters such as Alexi Lalas and Stuart Holden have turned against him.

What will USSF do?

After the bitter defeat to Uruguay, the federation issued a statement: “Our tournament performance fell short of our expectations. We must do better. We will be conducting a comprehensive review of our performance in Copa America and how best to improve the team and results as we look towards the 2026 World Cup.”

One thing is certain: USSF has never acted decisively or quickly, especially in the past decade. Berhalter will not be fired today, nor tomorrow, nor even this month.

The federation will lick its wounds and try to reevaluate, although how they can conclude that the USMNT is on the right track would be mind-boggling.

Signed until December of 2026, the former Columbus Crew manager will certainly have a termination clause. However, with two years left before the 2026 World Cup and very few coaches realistically available for the job, USSF will need to think long and hard about whom to give the program if they do decide to fire Berhalter.

The team has currently succumbed to poor performances, and even in matches where they have shown some face, like the defeat to Uruguay, the USMNT was held to only one shot on goal against the 15-time Copa America champions.
USSF painted themselves into a corner as they waited a full year to rehire Berhalter.

Along the way, capable coaches like Marcelo Bielsa, Ralf Rangnick, Roberto Martínez, Marcelo Gallardo, and even Jesse Marsch all took jobs. Now, the pool of international coaches who would consider the USMNT job is thin, with the only obvious choices being Columbus Crew manager Wilfried Nancy and Union boss Jim Curtin within MLS domestically, and only a handful of international coaches to truly really consider prime candidates.

If the USSF does not act fast their Golden Generation may be heading to the 2026 World Cup with an under qualified manager for soccer’s last big gasp to break through to the mainstream and stop being a niche sport.

In short, despite a positive start that saw the USMNT have a goal disallowed for a Tim Ream offside, a controversial Tim Weah red card in the 18th minute left the team tactically unbalanced and vulnerable to Panamanian pressure.

Nonetheless, the USMNT took the lead with a Folarin Balogun goal in the 22nd minute, but they couldn’t maintain their advantage and were ultimately defeated by a Panama side that applied relentless pressure, physicality, and aggression, leaving them needing a victory against Uruguay to advance to the Copa America quarterfinals.

What to Do Against Uruguay

While the USMNT’s Copa America hopes were crumbling in Atlanta, Uruguay cruised to a 5-0 victory over Bolivia in New Jersey. Once again, Uruguay applied early pressure, scored quickly, dropped off in the second half, and finished strongly with three goals in the last 20 minutes.

Marcelo Bielsa utilized a 4-2-3-1 formation, with Uruguay’s wing play posing significant challenges for Bolivia early on. Berhalter typically opts for a 4-3-3 formation, which against Uruguay would be more of a match for match, punch for punch approach, something that doesn’t seem would favor the US.

To counter this, it would be prudent for Berhalter to adopt more of a 4-5-1 approach, focusing on solid defensive structure in midfield to retain possession and execute quick outlet passes to Pulisic or Gio Reyna.

Balogun’s impressive performance as striker against Panama raises the key question of whether he can replicate it against a more experienced Uruguay side boasting some of the world’s top defenders.

Under Bielsa, Uruguay has transitioned from a methodical buildup to an explosive attacking force, maintaining their attacking shape even against formidable opponents like Brazil and Argentina in World Cup qualifying, where they secured victories by exploiting vulnerabilities in both.

Acknowledging the USMNT’s lack of quality central defenders and the likely unavailability of Tyler Adams for a full 90 minutes, reverting to a compact defensive approach, retaining possession, and focusing on counterattacks would be wise.

Such a strategy would necessitate Berhalter shelving his usual “free-flowing, attacking soccer,” a style the USMNT rarely executes effectively. However, given the stakes for his job and the credibility of the USMNT, adjusting tactics is advisable.

Lineup Against Uruguay

While details regarding Matt Turner’s availability remain unclear, signs point to Ethan Horvath starting in goal. The four-man backline of Scally, Richards, Ream, and Robinson should remain unchanged.

The midfield should feature Giovanni Reyna on the right wing, Weston McKennie, Johnny Cardoso, Yunus Musah, and Christian Pulisic on the left wing.

Up top, Folarin Balogun should retain his place due to recent form and improved hold-up play.

Scenarios for the USMNT

The outlook appears bleak for the USMNT to defeat Uruguay by more than two goals. Nevertheless, to reach the Copa América quarterfinals, the USMNT needs:

A result against Uruguay in the final group-stage match that matches or surpasses Panama’s result against Bolivia.

Here are the implications under different scenarios:

If Panama defeats Bolivia, the U.S. must defeat Uruguay and will subsequently rely on goal difference (the primary tiebreaker).

If Panama and Bolivia draw, the U.S. would advance with either a victory or a draw.

If Bolivia defeats Panama, the U.S. would advance with a win or a draw, with goal difference becoming crucial in the event of a loss.

This event marks a fresh start for nations like Chile and Peru, now led by Ricardo Gareca and Jorge Fossati respectively, and it is also a significant evaluation of the work of others such as Gregg Berhalter.

Below is a list of the salaries of some of the top coaches in this summer’s Copa America; all salaries are yearly.

Highest Paid Coaches in South America and Concacaf

Marcelo Bielsa of Uruguay leads the pack at $4 million yearly. The Argentine manager is expected to win silverware with La Celeste, especially following major victories against Brazil and Argentina in World Cup qualifying.

Brazil’s squad coach, Dorival Junior earns around $4 million. The journeyman coach is considered by many to be a disappointing choice to lead the five-time World Champions.

Ricardo Gareca, now with Chile, earns approximately $3.7 million, followed by Paraguay’s Daniel Garnero and Venezuela’s Fernando Batista, both at $3 million.

World Cup winner and Argentine manager Lionel Scaloni earns just $2.6 million, while USMNT manager Gregg Berhalter earns $2.2 million.