USMNT Coach Gregg Berhalter Fired Following Copa America Struggles

Gregg Berhalter, the head coach of the U.S. Men’s National Team (USMNT), has been relieved of his duties following the team’s disappointing performance at the Copa America tournament. Matt Crocker, the U.S. Soccer sporting director, made the decision after the team struggled to advance in the South American competition.

Berhalter’s tenure saw the USMNT win the Concacaf Nations League but suffered setbacks at the Copa America, culminating in the decision to part ways. The team, led by young talents like Weston McKennie, Gio Reyna, and Christian Pulisic, failed to progress past the group stage in the U.S.-hosted tournament.

In a crucial match against Panama, the USMNT faced challenges after winger Tim Weah received a red card early in the game. Despite an initial goal, Panama managed to secure a late winner, highlighting the team’s struggles to adapt and perform under pressure.

The decision to dismiss Berhalter reflects concerns over the team’s lack of consistency and adaptability in critical matches. Criticism had been mounting prior to the Copa America, with fans and stakeholders expecting more significant progress from the USMNT under Berhalter’s leadership.

Now, with the 2026 World Cup on the horizon, the USMNT is faced with the task of finding a new head coach to lead the team to success on home soil. The federation is looking for a coach who can elevate the team’s performance and guide them to competitive results against top international opponents.

Crocker emphasized the need for clear communication and a focused search for the next coach, indicating a willingness to invest in securing a top-quality candidate. The decision to part ways with Berhalter marks a pivotal moment for the USMNT as they aim to build a stronger foundation for future success.