Spanish Coach Luis de la Fuente Eyeing US Men’s National Team Job

Representatives for the celebrated Spanish national team coach, Luis de la Fuente, have reportedly expressed interest in the vacant head coach position of the US men’s national team. This inquiry, revealed just days after Spain‘s victory in the UEFA Euro 2024 tournament, came through an email from Massoud Roushandel, highlighting de la Fuente’s ambition for new challenges.

The email was directed to U.S. Soccer’s sporting director, Matt Crocker, on a Friday, right on the heels of the US soccer team’s disappointing Copa America campaign exit, which led to Gregg Berhalter’s departure from the coaching role.

Crocker had announced the initiation of the search process for a successor to Berhalter, indicating an extensive and rigorous selection approach. The timing coincides with the heightened anticipation for the 2026 World Cup which the US, along with Canada and Mexico, is set to host.

Luis de la Fuente’s recent coaching successes, including last year’s UEFA Nations League triumph and the recent Euro 2024 win, have captured international attention, making him a sought-after figure with a proven track record of delivering results at the highest level.

Participants close to the exchange, including Vicente Montes, were part of the email chain, hinting at the seriousness of de la Fuente’s contemplation about potentially leading a different national team, seeking fresh challenges beyond his current obligations with Spain.

During his post-match celebrations following the Euro 2024 victory, de la Fuente hinted at a desire to continue coaching, suggesting a possible openness to exploring new opportunities that could present a fruitful path towards the 2026 World Cup.

However, despite the outward appeal of taking on fresh challenges, it is speculated that the expression of interest in the US coaching role may serve as a strategic move to negotiate better terms with the Royal Spanish Football Federation (RFEF), possibly prompting a reassessment of his value and compensation in his current role with Spain.

While hopes are high for a swift appointment of Berhalter’s successor, U.S. Soccer aims to have a new head coach in place for the upcoming international friendlies against Canada and New Zealand scheduled for September, setting the stage for the beginning of a new era in American soccer leadership.