The United States Men’s National Team has another coach linked to them as a potential replacement for Gregg Berhalter. Yesterday, England head coach Gareth Southgate resigned from his position after leading the Three Lions to the Euro 2024 final, where they lost to Spain. Almost immediately came a report by Jason Fray that Southgate had been contacted by U.S. Soccer.
Have heard from multiple sources that the USSF has had conversations with Gareth Southgate. There are some legs to this. Fed is aiming for a proven coach with European experience. England also could be looking for an upgrade in the process — paving the way for GS to the #USMNT
— Jason Fray (@jasonfrayLA) July 16, 2024
Southgate, in eight years as England head coach, led the team to back-to-back Euro finals and the 2018 World Cup semifinal. In 102 matches, he had a record of 61 wins, 17 losses and 24 draws. His 61 wins is 3rd all-time among England coaches. While his teams were able to get close to the trophy on a few occasions, they weren’t able to end the 58-year drought from England’s last (and only) trophy, the 1966 World Cup which was won on home soil. His teams were also accused of playing a style that wasn’t conducive to winning big games, as Southgate’s teams struggled often against opponents that they should have beaten.
After 102 games and almost eight years in charge, Gareth Southgate has announced he is to leave his role as manager of the #ThreeLions.
— England (@England) July 16, 2024
Southgate also has a prior working relationship with U.S. Soccer Matt Crocker. Together while Crocker worked for the English FA, they created the “England DNA,” the establishment of a playing and coaching style for England’s national teams that remained constant throughout the levels. It makes sense that Crocker would reach out to gauge Southgate’s interest, but it doesn’t necessarily mean that Southgate is coming to America to take over the USMNT, who is looking for a coach after Gregg Berhalter was fired for the team’s dismal performance at the 2024 Copa America.
It’s silly season, and that means every major coach who is available will be linked with the job. Southgate, in some ways, could be a viable candidate as he checks several boxes of what U.S. Soccer could be looking for. However, with all the various reports out there of coaches being linked with the United States, fans would do well to remain even keeled and not rush to any conclusions with each report that comes in.
