Gregg Berhalter Returns as Coach of US National Soccer Team
Berhalter back at the helm for US national team
The United States Soccer Federation has announced that Gregg Berhalter will return to lead the country’s national team. It comes six months after his contract expired while an investigation into his past conduct was ongoing.
Berhalter’s controversial past
The 49-year-old admitted kicking his wife when they were teenagers, which led to an investigation by US Soccer. The federation ultimately found “no legal impediment to employing him,” and he has been given a second chance with the national team.
Looking ahead to World Cup 2026
Berhalter will now lead the side in their bid for success at the 2026 World Cup, which will be co-hosted by Canada, Mexico, and the USA. His previous stint in charge saw him take them to last year’s tournament where they reached the round of 16 before being knocked out by eventual runners-up Netherlands.
New beginnings for Berhalter and Reyna?
Berhalter had criticized Borussia Dortmund midfielder Giovanni Reyna during last year’s world cup campaign citing he failed to meet expectations leading up to it. The mother of Gio made reports about this incident on December 11th, resulting in investigations from USSF.
As part of addressing these issues Greg states “Gio is an important player…we know that if we can unlock his talents, he’s going to be a game-changer…so there’s work (to do) and part of it is working together with [US Soccer Sporting Director Matt Crocker] and trying to rebuild a relationship.”
Berhalter’s vision for the team
Gregg Berhalter has expressed his excitement at being given another chance to lead the national side, saying he is “grateful” for the opportunity. US Soccer’s new sporting director, Matt Crocker, said he was won over by Berhalter’s “vision” for taking this program forward.
The future looks bright for American soccer
With Gregg Berhalter back at the helm and a promising crop of young players emerging in recent years, including Reyna himself, there’s plenty of optimism around United States’ prospects heading into their next World Cup campaign.