During Gregg Berhalter’s time as manager of the United States men’s national soccer team, he consistently fell short of exceeding expectations. While he managed to meet modest goals, he never pushed the team beyond that point to truly captivate fans and stakeholders. This stagnation became a significant downfall for Berhalter, as maintaining the status quo does little to generate political capital within the U.S. Soccer Federation or build goodwill externally.
One pivotal misstep for Berhalter was the team’s failure to advance beyond the group stage at the U.S.-hosted Copa América. This major disappointment left him vulnerable, especially given his track record of underwhelming performances. Consequently, Berhalter found himself out of a job, with U.S. Soccer’s sporting director, Matt Crocker, taking the lead on this decision. The lack of progression and strategic shortcomings ultimately sealed Berhalter’s fate.
The decision to rehire Berhalter in June 2023 highlighted a significant misstep by the U.S. Soccer Federation. Despite various warning signs, including public incidents involving U.S. midfielder Gio Reyna and Berhalter’s prior coaching history, the Federation opted to bring him back. This move underscored a pattern of staleness and regression that often accompanies managers returning for a second term, ultimately hindering the team’s growth and development.
Matt Crocker’s decision to part ways with Berhalter reflects a necessary step towards revitalizing the USMNT. While the move was met with mixed reactions from fans, it signifies a potential shift in strategy for the Federation. Acknowledging past mistakes, Crocker expressed a commitment to conducting a more targeted search for the next coach. This approach aims to secure a candidate who aligns with the team’s goals and can propel them to new heights in the international soccer arena.
Despite the challenges posed by Berhalter’s tenure, there were some positives to glean from his leadership. His efforts to rebuild the team after the 2018 World Cup disappointment and secure victories in the Concacaf Nations League underscore his potential as a coach. However, the lack of significant progress and notable wins during crucial moments highlighted the need for change and a fresh perspective.
While Gregg Berhalter made strides in some areas, his overall performance as the USMNT manager fell short of expectations. The decision to part ways with him signals a turning point for the team, one that emphasizes the importance of finding a coach who can propel them towards success. With a clear focus on strategic hiring and a commitment to elevating the team’s performance, the USMNT has the opportunity to regroup, refocus, and embark on a new chapter of growth and achievement in international soccer.