USMNT is near to hitting a dead end in pursuing a new coach. The hunt to find the replacement for Gregg Berhalter remains a slow burn as it has been months since the manager’s chair has been empty. Even though prominent names like Jurgen Klopp and Pellegrino Matarazzo have been linked with the job, the US Soccer has only faced rejection. But why exactly they haven’t made a dent? Perhaps insider Doug McIntyre has an explanation.

The writer, recently invited to the latest episode of Alexi Lalas-hosted State of the Union podcast with a panel that included ex-USMNT player Stu Holden, talked about the Star and Stripes’ struggle to make an appointment. “The reality that I think US soccer is running into here is that the club game is still where most coaches want to be,” he said.

“You can swing for the fences, you can go after Jurgen Klopp or any big name you want, but reality will set in at some point. There are plenty of coaches that I think would be willing to take US soccer’s money. But finding the right fit is not as easy as just being able to write a check; it doesn’t work like that.” added McIntyre.

Though coaching USMNT is a ‘desirable‘ job, the journalist questioned if it is enough to make any coach leave the high ranks of the Premier League or a Bundesliga job. “When you spend money, you do get quality. But the fact that it’s not happening as quickly as some people expected shows that it’s not as simple as just snapping your fingers and making a hire,” concluded McIntyre.

Interestingly, Doug had already reported a few days ago that Matarazzo won’t easily leave his Hoffenheim job. But why exactly did he reject the USMNT’s call?

First Jurgen Klopp, now Pellegrino Matarazzo rejects USMNT coaching role

Hiring Jurgen Klopp would have been a dream for the USSF. However, the German tactician, having just left the Liverpool role, was keen to continue with his managerial sabbatical. In the meantime, while a host of names made the table, the attention was completely turned towards Pellegrino Matarazzo. However, there too, the Eagles faced rejection.

The 46-year-old, working ahead of the new domestic season with Hoffenheim, dismissed the links of taking up the USMNT job. “It’s extremely important to create clarity and calm in this turbulent phase. I am proud to be the coach of this team & am very much looking forward to competing with the boys in European competition,” he said.

Clearly, Matarazzo—who has a contract with Hoffenheim until 2025—wishes to stay with the Bundesliga side. Meanwhile, his statement breaks the hearts of ardent US fans who were looking forward to the 46-year-old occupying the vacant managerial seat. Regardless, this now forces US Soccer to swim someplace else and find their replacement for Gregg Berhalter, as time continues to tick.