There couldn’t be a more important time for soccer in the USA than now. It’s less than two years until the nation hosts the World Cup and the USMNT doesn’t seem to be completely ready as things stand. The Stars and Stripes were knocked out from the group stage in the Copa America despite playing teams way below their ranking.
Hence, reports are emerging that LAFC coach Steve Cherundolo is one of the main targets after Jurgen Klopp seems to be a distant option because of his break from coaching. But what do the numbers say about the 45-year-old? Is he fit to replace Gregg Berhalter, who bore the brunt for the team’s recent spell?
Steve Cherundolo Statistics: The coach with quick results
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USMNT is now looking for a formidable manager who can train them extensively to be competitive against elite teams and bring results. And it appears that Steve Cherundolo may fit well into the criteria with some amazing objective data. However, it wasn’t an easy beginning for the Rocjford-born when it came to managing senior soccer after his team, the Las Vegas Lights, an affiliate of his current team, the LAFC finished last in USL. His first season in 2021 ended with 6 wins, 23 losses, and 3 draws. However, the tides have changed for Cherundolo since then.
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Subsequently, he arrived at LAFC and won the MLS Supporters’ Shield and MLS Cup in his maiden season, becoming the first manager to do so. LAFC accumulated 67 points that season, winning 21 games and losing nine, apart from a perfect record in 3 knockout games. However, the form continued through the next season as LAFC missed the MLS Cup, losing 1-2 to Columbus in the final after reaching the playoffs and finishing #3 in the Western Conference.
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Steve Cherundolo over Jurgen Klopp for USMNT boss—Is this the right move for American soccer?
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Despite that, the California team also reached the final of the Champions Cup in 2023 and was the only team to play. More impressively, his team is leading the league charts once again. The talisman has an overall record of 55 wins in 97 MLS games with 24 losses making him a deserving candidate who will fit US Soccer’s criteria for the next coach of USMNT.
US Soccer opens up about what they expect from the next coach after sacking Gregg Berhlater
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Although Gregg Berhalter’s exit was not a surprise, reports suggest that US Soccer sporting director Matt Crocker was looking at the last 14 games. However, news also revealed that USMNT is expecting a manager who has a track record of winning, which can help them put up a fight against big teams. In addition, the scouts are also targeting a person who can get the most out of the young resources available. Hence, Steve Cherundolo and Columbus Crew boss Wilfried Nancy are being eyed by the federation.
On the other hand, supporters who are expecting Jurgen Klopp may be disappointed, as a few experts sensed positive hints from the German. However, with the clock ticking rapidly, the unit will try to expedite the process. But do you think Cherundolo would be the right man to guide USMNT? Let us know in the comments.
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Steve Cherundolo over Jurgen Klopp for USMNT boss—Is this the right move for American soccer?