The Rise of the USMNT: Exclusive Interview with Coach Gregg Berhalter
FOX Soccer had the opportunity to sit down with the United States Men’s National Team (USMNT) Head Coach Gregg Berhalter ahead of the CONCACAF Gold Cup quarterfinals, amidst a resurgent campaign for the team. Coach Berhalter reflected on the team’s ascent, highlighting factors that have driven their recent successes and looking towards the future with optimism.
"[The] development of the style of play that we’ve got, which is more attacking-focused, more progressive, and using the space as well as having a lot of creativity and scoring opportunities. Our players are learning to trust in each other and to make bold decisions on the field, and that’s showing in our performance," Coach Berhalter commented.
Under his guidance, the USMNT has displayed considerable improvement in attacking flair and incisive transitions, boasting players like Christian Pulisic, Weston McKennie, and Pulisic who have shone on the global stage. Furthermore, Coach Berhalter noted the vital roles played by some of his coaches, like Richie Williams, Mark Birner, and, Chris Armas:
"We have some excellent assistant coaches who work behind the scenes tirelessly, working on tactics and getting the team in the right spaces. I’ve got an immense amount of credit to these men who do tremendous work in shaping the game on the pitch for us."
Building on last fall’s triumphant 4-1 defeat over Cuba, Berhalter guided the USMNT to historic victories against previous nemesis CONCACAF contenders, like Haiti and Costa Rica. "Defeating Cuba really gave us some confidence. These games allow the players to settle in, but it was critical to follow them up with two tough victories… Now we get to experience moments like we played in World Cup qualifying, against Trinidad and Tobago, Mexico… The progress isn’t instantaneous but we keep adding layers and growth."
Despite current injuries and team adjustments, there is widespread acclaim for Berhalter’s managerial approach and communication with players: "Players adore playing under a coach like this. There was an overwhelming change of momentum towards a unified feeling. With 12 international calls in four categories (youth, style of play, international games and friendly matches) these are guys not only excited and hungry for our firsts – they love these teammates – trust the method which they use under Berhalter."
"Even when players we had out from injury will back in play next week we look forward. At this time every team and position will compete because there isn’t any guarantees" Berhalter added with humility.
While assessing the growth over the year 2022 we must mention important aspects. When Berhalter first became involved, some team members who now have to get their work again were away while he emphasized they will keep it as his duty. "[Squad selections must be merit, merit should stand for individual team performances over weeks] in various tournaments as far as, including friendlies the most part…"
In regards of his coach on the opposite part of the board, Gregg revealed that "Tactically sound opponents may adjust, then react. "From now to January 11 World Cup qualifications must be performed we are determined; it’ll push the men toward a consistent show. No shortcuts will work: our system as we adapt on the move – a very interesting match and training camp await these men." They have confidence building in Berhalter to grow as team which they love while we face up against.
Under the expert eye of Gregg Berhalter and his trusted squad, US Soccer is embarking on an innovative and aggressive quest to revamp their World Cup chances in June 2024. They set the table not only by becoming a real tournament contender in Concacaf – they show improvement with no bounds.
It doesn’t stop anytime soon – With this current winning momentum it wouldn’t take another few steps toward a possible triumphant season which would prove United States Men’s National Team on higher ground to begin the following month.
Exclusive permission was given FOX Soccer for permission to republish this piece provided by CONCACAF to maintain a public article for users reading this news update.
