Gregg Berhalter Reflects on USMNT Ahead of World Cup

IRVINE, Calif. — Just last week, before the U.S. men’s national team faced Germany, Gregg Berhalter held a press conference in Chicago. It’s a bit surprising to see a former coach give such public commentary about his previous team, especially so close to a major event.

Berhalter led the USMNT to the World Cup in Qatar three and a half years ago, and while he aimed to have them in the World Cup happening this week, things took a downturn during the Copa America group stage two summers back. Currently, he’s coaching the Chicago Fire in Major League Soccer and has a podcast, “Coach’s Corner,” alongside fellow ex-national team coaches Bruce Arena and Bob Bradley. The situation, let’s say, is a bit complicated.

“Of course,” Berhalter responded when asked about his feelings for the team. This comment came just hours before the USMNT began their World Cup base camp in Irvine, California.

He expressed a deep connection to U.S. Soccer, saying, “When you’re part of this organization—no matter your role—you’re part of it for life. It’s not guaranteed you’ll have a second opportunity, but it’s still about being part of the program. It feels great. My role may have changed, but I’m still going to enjoy it.”

Berhalter’s history with this squad runs deep, considering that 13 players on the current roster were also part of the 2022 World Cup team he managed. One of them is his son, Sebastian, who watched from the stands in Qatar but is now poised to play a significant role.

Initially uncapped during his father’s coaching tenure, Sebastian might have faced accusations of nepotism had his dad still been in charge. Now, his participation adds an emotional layer to the narrative.

“For Sebastian, it’s been all about focus and hard work,” Berhalter remarked. He acknowledged that the road to this point wasn’t easy and that it required mental resilience and self-belief. There were challenging days for Sebastian, especially when he wasn’t able to play in Vancouver, but he persevered.

As for the other players on the roster, Berhalter feels a sense of pride about their growth. “What surprises me most is how much they’ve developed,” he shared. He noted that they’re still in the process of figuring out who they are as young adults and professionals, but they’ve become tough and more self-aware.

Weston McKennie chimed in, saying, “Greg was a huge part of my national team journey. I’ve shared personal challenges with him and sought his support during tough moments.”

During the Qatar World Cup, Berhalter made it a point to remind this youthful team of the significance and pressure of the tournament. Now, with a home tournament looming, that sentiment is even more resonant. On Monday, about 5,500 fans showed up in Irvine to watch a light training session.

“The team is ready,” Berhalter asserted. While he didn’t place too much weight on the outcomes of the matches against Germany or Senegal, he emphasized the importance of performance and confidence gained from those encounters. They’re gearing up for their upcoming game against Paraguay, fully prepared for the challenge ahead.