A Rollercoaster Ride: Gregg Berhalter’s Tenure with the USMNT
Gregg Berhalter’s time as manager of the United States Men’s National Team (USMNT) was a captivating journey marked by both triumphs and disappointments. His tenure, spanning from 2018 to 2024, was a roller coaster ride of successes, setbacks, and controversies. Let’s delve into the key moments that shaped Berhalter’s leadership and ultimately led to his departure.
- Gregg Berhalter’s tenure as the USMNT coach spanned from 2018 to 2024, characterized by a mix of successes, setbacks, and controversies.
- Berhalter’s appointment in December 2018 brought optimism and a fresh start to a team seeking stability after missing the 2018 World Cup.
- Under Berhalter’s leadership, the USMNT won the Gold Cup in 2019 and the Concacaf Nations League in 2021, defeating Mexico both times.
- Berhalter successfully guided the USMNT to qualify for the 2022 World Cup in Qatar, marking a significant achievement during his tenure.
- Despite his achievements, Berhalter’s journey as coach was tumultuous, ultimately leading to his departure from the USMNT.
The Dawn of a New Era: Berhalter Takes the Helm
Berhalter’s appointment as USMNT manager in December 2018 marked a fresh start for a program reeling from the disappointment of missing the 2018 World Cup. He inherited a team seeking stability and direction after a tumultuous period. Berhalter, a former USMNT player himself, brought a wealth of experience, having previously served as an assistant coach with the Los Angeles Galaxy and having coached abroad in Sweden. His most notable achievement before taking the national team reins was leading the Columbus Crew to an MLS Cup appearance.
Berhalter’s arrival instilled a sense of optimism, a belief that he could guide the USMNT back to the pinnacle of international football. He emphasized a possession-based style of play, aiming to build a team capable of competing with the world’s best. The journey, however, would not be without challenges.
Winning Summers: Building Momentum
The USMNT’s resurgence began with a series of impressive victories in 2019 and 2021. Berhalter’s team claimed two major trophies, the Gold Cup in 2019 and the Concacaf Nations League in 2021, both times defeating their arch-rivals, Mexico. These victories provided a much-needed boost to the team’s confidence and were a testament to Berhalter’s ability to guide and inspire his players. These triumphs marked a turning point for the USMNT, re-establishing them as a force to be reckoned with in Concacaf.
Back to the World Cup: A Return to the Big Stage
The ultimate test for any national team manager is World Cup qualification. In March 2022, Berhalter delivered, securing the USMNT’s place in the 2022 World Cup in Qatar. His team finished third in the CONCACAF qualifying group, a solid performance that highlighted their progress. Berhalter established a core group of players, including Antonee Robinson, Weston McKennie, Tim Weah, and Christian Pulisic, who formed the backbone of his team. The USMNT’s return to the World Cup after missing the 2018 edition was a major accomplishment for Berhalter.
A World Cup Reality Check: A Disappointing Exit
Despite reaching the knockout stage of the World Cup, the USMNT’s campaign ended in disappointment with a 3-1 defeat against the Netherlands in the round of 16. While the USMNT’s journey to Qatar was a success, their performance at the tournament exposed their limitations. They struggled to create scoring opportunities against top opposition, and their attacking potency remained a concern. The team’s early exit from the World Cup left many wondering if Berhalter was the right man to lead the USMNT to the next level.
The Berhalter-Reyna Controversy: A Tumultuous Off-Season
The period after the World Cup was far from smooth for Berhalter. A family dispute involving USMNT star Gio Reyna’s parents and Berhalter erupted in January 2023. Reyna’s parents alleged that Berhalter had made inappropriate comments about their son’s playing time during the World Cup, and Gio Reyna’s father revealed a past incident involving Berhalter and his wife. Berhalter admitted to kicking his now-wife, Rosalind, during a fight in 1991. This incident, along with a series of coaching changes within the USMNT, cast a cloud over Berhalter’s future.
A Second Chance: Berhalter Returns to the Fold
Despite the controversies, Berhalter was given a second chance. An investigation by U.S. Soccer determined that the 1991 incident was an isolated event and did not warrant his removal. Berhalter and Gio Reyna mended their relationship, paving the way for Berhalter’s return as manager. He was tasked with leading the USMNT through the 2026 World Cup, which will be co-hosted by the United States, Canada, and Mexico.
A Nations League Triumph, But Doubts Remain: A Short-Lived Success
Berhalter’s second chance started with a strong statement. In March 2024, the USMNT won the Concacaf Nations League, defeating Mexico in the final. This victory provided a much-needed morale boost after the turmoil of the previous year. However, the triumph was short-lived.
Copa America Disappointment: The Final Straw
The USMNT’s early exit from the 2024 Copa America proved to be the final straw for Berhalter. The team’s performances in the tournament were far from convincing, particularly their group stage loss to Panama. Berhalter was criticized for his tactical decisions and his team’s lack of intensity. The USMNT’s poor showing in Copa America, coupled with the team’s struggles in the previous World Cup, led to Berhalter’s dismissal in July 2024.
The Legacy of Gregg Berhalter: A Mixed Bag
Berhalter’s legacy as USMNT manager is a mixed bag. He restored stability and achieved some notable successes, including winning the Gold Cup and Nations League twice. However, his inability to lead the USMNT to a deep run in a major tournament and the controversies surrounding his tenure ultimately cost him his job. Berhalter’s dismissal signals a new era for the USMNT, and it remains to be seen whether the team can finally achieve its full potential under new leadership.
The Road Ahead: A New Chapter for the USMNT
With the 2026 World Cup on home soil just two years away, the USMNT faces a crucial period. The team needs a manager who can inspire confidence, instill a winning mentality, and build a team capable of competing at the highest level. The search for Berhalter’s successor will be a pivotal moment in the USMNT’s journey. The team’s future success will depend on the ability to find a manager who can lead them to glory on the world stage.
Important Dates Moving Forward
The USMNT’s schedule in the coming months and years is packed with important fixtures. The team will be looking to build momentum and prepare for the 2026 World Cup. Here are some key dates to watch out for:
- September 7, 2024: Friendly against Canada
- September 10, 2024: Friendly against New Zealand
- October 12, 2024: Friendly against Panama
- November 11-19, 2024: Concacaf Nations League quarterfinals
- March 20, 2025: Concacaf Nations League semifinals
- March 23, 2025: Concacaf Nations League Final
- June 11-July 19, 2026: World Cup in the United States, Canada, and Mexico
The USMNT’s journey continues, and the next chapter will be written with a new manager at the helm. The team’s goal remains the same: to achieve global success and make the nation proud. The road ahead will be challenging, but the USMNT has the potential to reach new heights and write a new chapter in its history.
