Today is definitely a sad and disappointing day for supporters of the U.S. Men’s National Team (USMNT). Not many people expected the team’s Copa America journey to finish so early, during the group stages. Sadly, that’s exactly what happened. As you might guess, fans are upset and demanding changes, especially calling for Head Coach Gregg Berhalter to be replaced, with more and more people joining this call.
Berhalter’s time in charge has faced a lot of close examination and negative comments. Right now, both supporters and many experts want him to leave. But there’s a big problem that makes this choice difficult. Let’s look into this important issue more deeply.
The problem USMNT will face after firing Gregg Berhalter
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Despite Gregg Berhalter not living up to the high hopes of many, there’s no doubt that the head coach of the USMNT has been very dedicated to his country. The 50-year-old coach has made several sacrifices, including in his pay. He makes $2.9 million a year as the USMNT manager, and there is no doubt that he is being underpaid for a job of this magnitude.
This money part is a big problem for the USMNT if they think about ending his contract. At this pay rate, it would be really hard for Team USA to find a coach as good or better without spending a lot more money.
Gregg Berhalter makes $2.29m as USMNT manager. He's actively underpaid, there's no denying that.
If the U.S. moves on from him, they will not be able to afford a manager of his quality at that rate.
They cannot afford to be cheap. IF you move on, you HAVE to spend.
— Jacob Schneider (@_jacobschneider) July 2, 2024
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If they want to hire someone like Jurgen Klopp, they will need to spend a lot more money than they have planned so far. This limits what the U.S. Soccer Federation can do about choosing a new manager and shows a big problem for those who want to fire Gregg Berhalter. Let’s look at how much it might cost for the USMNT if they decide to pursue a high-profile hire.
How much will USMNT have to pay to replace Berhalter?
Jurgen Klopp has been the top contender being linked for teh coach position in USMNT. The German coach has been the topic of rumors since he left Liverpool. While at Liverpool, Klopp earned about $19 million each year. To hire him, USMNT would have to offer him at least that amount or more.
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This amount is no doubt significantly higher than Gregg Berhalter’s yearly pay of $2.9 million. The big difference in their salaries shows the money problem the USMNT has, but it also makes us wonder how much they’re ready to spend to get top-level coaches.
What are your thoughts on this? Let us know in the comments.