US Soccer’s search for a new coach seems to be gaining traction. At a crucial juncture currently, the team is looking for someone who can train the men’s team to stay competitive against elite teams as they get ready for the 2026 World Cup. USMNT faced a big reality check in the 2024 Copa America as they were eliminated from the group stage. The US Soccer, subsequently, fired coach Gregg Berhalter, but finding a replacement for him is proving to be an uphill task. After rejections from a few targeted coaches, discussions with French coach Herve Renard appear to be going in the right direction.

According to the latest reports, the Frenchman is demanding a worthy offer. US Soccer will have to be up for it, amid stiff competition from lucrative leagues including Saudi Pro League teams.

There has been a sense of apprehension about US Soccer’s generous approach towards hiring men’s coaches due to the equal pay regulation in the United States. It is being discussed whether the wages of the upcoming coach would be limited by the wages of the women’s team coach. While there is no clarity yet, the US federation will try to put in their best, after being called out for their delay in sacking Gregg Berhalter.

Berhalter, although, had a reasonable spell as he took the US to the 2022 World Cup, but he failed to help the team progress through to the Copa America knockouts. It could see a major shift for USMNT if Renard lands up now. The former Lille manager has the experience of coaching 7 national teams including France women. He also won two AFCON titles with Ivory Coast and Zambia.

However, with all the optimism around, US Soccer is not ready to take a risk.

US Soccer’s precautious approach for new USMNT coach

Although Herve Renard is currently free, talks suggest there is a considerable demand for the French coach. It was earlier claimed that Nigeria was also aiming to hire the 55-year-old. It appears that the Stars and Stripes have Los Angeles FC coach Steve Cherundelo as an alternative, in case things do not work out well with Renard.

Meanwhile, after being ambitious about Jurgen Klopp, the board seems to have drawn cold about the potential, as the former Liverpool manager has decided to stay away from the game for a while. Nevertheless, the CONCACAF giants seem to have a few options if their attempts get rejected. USMNT would be optimistic about landing the best coach for their World Cup dream.