Jacob Lebb, CNN
(CNN) — Gregg Berhalter has been fired as coach of the U.S. men's soccer national team, the U.S. Soccer Federation announced Wednesday, following the team's elimination from the Copa America.
The 50-year-old coach faced extensive criticism after the US was eliminated from the group stage of the Copa America this month, which is still ongoing with all matches being played in the United States.
Berhalter, hired in 2018, signed a new contract for 2023 after leading the team to the knockout stage at the 2022 Qatar World Cup.
U.S. Soccer Federation President Cindy Parlow Cone said U.S. Soccer Director of Sport Matt Crocker has begun the search for Berhalter's replacement.
“I want to thank Greg for his hard work and dedication to U.S. Soccer and the men's national team,” Cone said in the federation's release.
“(Crocker) will ensure he finds the right person to lead the U.S. Men's National Team into a new era of on-field success,” she said.
Berhalter has a record of 44 wins, 17 losses and 13 draws in 74 games played, and he also led the team to a Gold Cup victory and two CONCACAF Nations League titles in 2021.
“Berhalter has earned the respect of everyone in our organization and has played a pivotal role in unifying our young team and moving our program forward,” Crocker said in a press release.
“Our immediate focus is to find a coach who can maximise our potential as we continue to prepare for the 2026 World Cup and the search has already begun,” Crocker added.
The United States, Canada and Mexico will co-host the World Cup in 2026.
“U.S. Soccer strives to do what is necessary to ensure success on the pitch and is committed to fostering a winning culture,” the association said.
The men's team will next play in an international friendly against Canada on September 7 at Children's Mercy Park in Kansas City.
CNN Wire
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