The United States men’s national soccer team has largely disappointed, especially compared to its women’s counterpart.
An early exit from the 2024 Copa America following a 1-0 loss to Uruguay in the final group stage match spelled the end of Gregg Berhalter’s tenure at the helm of the USMNT. But the firing of the head coach, however desired by fans, leaves the program in a precarious position.
The United States, alongside Canada and Mexico, are set to host the 2026 FIFA World Cup. That means the USMNT gets automatic qualification into the largest soccer tournament in the world. But the team has work to do in the two years leading up to the tournament.
First up: The USMNT needs a new manager. Jurgen Klopp, former Liverpool FC manager, emerged as potential candidate, and Jesse Marsch and Herve Renard also have been mentioned as possible replacements.
The Sporting News details the latest news and rumors regarding the USMNT coaching search in the aftermath of the Copa America disappointment.
MORE: Who should replace Gregg Berhalter at USMNT?
USMNT head coach rumors tracker
Klopp declines USMNT offer
That didn’t last very long. After the USMNT expressed interest in signing Klopp to become the club’s next manager, he “politely declined” the opportunity. Klopp maintained his stance that he wants to take a break from soccer after stepping away from Liverpool at the end of the 2023-24 Premier League season.
Klopp becomes ‘top target’ for USMNT
The United States need a manager that can make drastic changes to a team that emits embarrassing performances in each major world tournament. The club believes Klopp can be that person, per multiple reports.
Klopp stepped down from his position at Liverpool earlier this year after spending nearly a decade with the Premier League club. The U.S. are attempting to bring him across the pond to take the reins of the national team.
Hugo Perez does not want the USMNT position … yet
Hugo Perez, a former member of the U.S. men’s national team, was listed among the best candidates to replace Berhalter before he was officially fired. But Perez replied to a post from Sporting News’ Kyle Bonn on X, noting that he’s not looking for the position just yet.
Perez did say he would consider the role after the 2026 FIFA World Cup.