USA Dreams of Jurgen Klopp or Pep Guardiola
The United States, hosting the Copa América, is experiencing a major shake-up after being eliminated in the group stage. With the World Cup just two years away, the team’s future is uncertain, and coach Gregg Berhalter’s job hangs in the balance.
A loss to Uruguay in Kansas City confirmed the U.S.'s disappointing exit from what seemed like an easy group, which also included Panama and Bolivia.
Berhalter's team finished with only three points, gained in their opening win against Bolivia, before losing 2-1 to Panama and 1-0 to Uruguay.
There were high hopes for this Copa América, a tournament expected to boost soccer's popularity in the U.S., especially with MLS attracting stars like Leo Messi and Luis Suárez.
However, the so-called "golden generation" crumbled under pressure, showing a lack of play, ideas, and character, and exited early. Criticism poured in from American TV, even from former Team USA stars like Clint Dempsey and Alexi Lalas.
Berhalter admitted that the Copa América didn't end as hoped but defended his tenure, citing improvements in defense and ball circulation. He firmly responded to questions about his suitability to lead the team to the World Cup.
During Fox Sports’ broadcast, journalists debated the possibility of seeing Guardiola or Klopp, currently on a sabbatical, coaching the USMNT—a prospect that seems challenging.
Frustration is clear as the team, despite having many players in top European leagues, is achieving less impressive results compared to previous generations.
In the last Copa América hosted by the U.S. in 2016, the team reached the semifinals; in the 2022 World Cup in Qatar, they were eliminated in the Round of 16, and they didn’t qualify in 2018.
The next two years are crucial for the U.S., as they prepare to host the 2026 World Cup with Canada and Mexico. This period will determine whether they stick with Berhalter or bring in a new coach to revitalize their sports project.