The global perception of US soccer is changing with the performance of the USWNT. The arrival of greats like Lionel Messi to the MLS has also helped. But the biggest opportunity for US Soccer is the World Cup 2026, which they will co-host with Canada and Mexico. However, with less than two years to go for the event, the administration got a stiff reality check from their targeted coach Jesse Marsch, who rejected the board’s offer to take up the USMNT head coach job.

Marsch feels it’s not just the performance of USMNT on the field that needs improvement, but the change needs to start at a deeper layer in US Soccer. “I have no interest in the U.S. job. And to be fair, unless there’s a big shift in the organization, I don’t think that I’ll ever have an interest in that job in the future. I’m really happy here (with Canada).” Marsch said, amid reports of US soccer already being under scrutiny for its management.

Experts feel the US federation took a long time in sacking Greg Berhalter. However, the decision to sack Berhalter came as a welcome step. Marsch, in the meantime, seems unhappy with the system itself.  Amid the claims of US Soccer giving Berhalter favors while hiring, despite a few controversies, Marsch called them out for their process of hiring the head coach.

A stern procedure that involved psychometric and aptitude tests was already called out citing that it wasn’t a corporate job. But Marsch claimed he wasn’t treated well during the process, pressing the need for a shift in the system. As the 50-year-old has shown disinterest in the top job, US Soccer is still looking for an able replacement for Berhalter.

Who next for USMNT after Jesse Marsch’s rejection?

With the clock ticking for the 2026 event, the US federation faces a tight situation with rejections from a couple of coaches. In Marsch’s case, there is little to no chance of him returning anytime soon, even if the federation makes the changes he has demanded. He seems more than satisfied with Canada at the moment. Leading them into the Copa America semifinal, the coach and his team received recognition for their performance, holding Marsch tightly.

However, the US Soccer still has a minor chance to convince Jurgen Klopp. Although the former Liverpool manager, who is the fans’ and experts’ favorite, has refused to take over for now, he can be convinced by the board to take over after his sabbatical, with an interim manager put in charge until then. Klopp is on a sabbatical after a highly successful stint at Anfield citing burnout and is expected to be active after a year of break.

In addition, USMNT is also considering two MLS masters Steve Cherundolo and Wilfried Nancy, as reports suggest. With the biggest FIFA World Cup coming to America, can the USA hire an efficient manager to take them to greater heights? Let us know in the comments.