USMNT Coaches: Pros and Cons of Possible Coaching Candidates

1. Jurgen Klopp:

• Pros:
  • Highly successful with a proven track record at top clubs like Liverpool and Borussia Dortmund.
  • Charismatic and capable of galvanizing fans and players.
  • Fluent in English, good communicator.
• Cons:
  • Likely very expensive, requiring a substantial financial commitment from U.S. Soccer.
  • Uncertain interest in a national team role, having stated he needed a break from club-level demands.

2. David Wagner:

• Pros:
  • Experience in both European and American soccer, having played for the USMNT.
  • Known for high-tempo, dynamic playing style.
• Cons:
  • Mixed success at the club level, including a difficult tenure at Schalke.
  • Less high-profile than Klopp, might not inspire the same level of excitement.

3. Steve Cherundolo:

• Pros:
  • Strong domestic résumé with success at LAFC.
  • Deep understanding of the US soccer landscape.
• Cons:
  • Lack of experience at the national team level.
  • Less varied managerial experience compared to international candidates.

4. Wilfried Nancy:

• Pros:
  • Successful in MLS, winning the MLS Cup with Columbus Crew.
  • Known for instilling a disciplined and creative playing style.
• Cons:
  • Limited international experience.
  • Recent success primarily within the MLS, less proven on a bigger stage.

5. Jim Curtin:

• Pros:
  • Consistent success in MLS with Philadelphia Union.
  • Strong tactical acumen and ability to get the best out of his squad.
• Cons:
  • Current poor form of Philadelphia Union might affect his candidacy.
  • No national team managerial experience.

6. Hugo Perez:

• Pros:
  • Significant experience with US youth teams.
  • Emphasis on technical development and playing the ball on the ground.
• Cons:
  • Limited success at the club level.
  • Departure from El Salvador’s national team amid some controversy.

7. Javier Aguirre:

• Pros:
  • Extensive international experience, including World Cup success with Mexico.
  • Proven ability to get results with limited resources.
• Cons:
  • Potentially high salary demands.
  • Might not be a long-term solution given his age.

8. Matias Almeyda:

• Pros:
  • Success in multiple regions, including Mexico, Greece, and South America.
  • Known for unifying teams and thriving in tournament scenarios.
• Cons:
  • Mixed results in MLS with San Jose Earthquakes.
  • Currently under contract with AEK Athens.

9. Marcelo Gallardo:

• Pros:
  • Highly successful with River Plate, winning numerous trophies.
  • Tactical versatility and strong leadership.
• Cons:
  • Expensive and might be challenging to lure away from current commitments.
  • Limited experience outside of South America.

10. Tab Ramos:

• Pros:
  • Extensive experience within U.S. Soccer, particularly with youth teams.
  • Known for developing young talent.
• Cons:
  • Limited success at the club level with Houston Dynamo and Hartford Athletic.
  • Familiarity with U.S. Soccer might not bring the fresh perspective needed.

11. José Pékerman:

• Pros:
  • Vast experience in international football, including World Cup success with Argentina and Colombia.
  • Strong record with youth development.
• Cons:
  • Advanced age might limit long-term potential.
  • Recent departure from Venezuela under controversial circumstances.

12. Patrick Vieira:

• Pros:
  • Experience in MLS and European club football.
  • Strong player development background from Manchester City’s academy.
• Cons:
  • Mixed results at the club level, including a modest finish with Strasbourg.
  • Might not be a long-term solution given past performance inconsistencies.

13. Hervé Renard:

• Pros:
  • Proven track record in international competitions, including the World Cup and Africa Cup of Nations.
  • Strong player management skills.
• Cons:
  • Recent focus on women’s soccer might raise questions about transition back to men’s teams.
  • Limited familiarity with U.S. Soccer system.

14. Mauricio Pochettino:

• Pros:
  • Extensive experience in top European leagues, known for developing young talent.
  • Strong tactical and personal relations skills.
• Cons:
  • High salary demands.
  • Recently departed from Chelsea, so might prefer another club role.

15. Thomas Tuchel:

• Pros:
  • Highly successful at top clubs, known for strong tactical planning.
  • Experience in managing big teams and winning major trophies.
• Cons:
  • Potentially very expensive.
  • No indication of interest in national team roles.

16. Thomas Frank:

• Pros:
  • Successful in the Premier League with Brentford.
  • Tactical adaptability and player development skills.
• Cons:
  • Currently under contract until 2027.
  • Might be a less realistic candidate due to current commitments.