From USMNT Departure to Record-Breaking Achievements: Berhalter’s Impact on Chicago
Gregg Berhalter’s vision for teamwork was clearly evident in the Chicago Fire’s recent 5-3 triumph over Miami, a victory that secured their spot in the postseason. Each goal scored in that match came from a different player: D’Avilla Djé, Jonathan Dean, Rominigue Kouamé, Justin Reynolds, and Brian Gutiérrez all contributed, reinforcing the idea that success is a collective effort rather than reliant on star players. This collaborative spirit has left Chicago second in the league for total goals, with 66, just behind Inter Miami, who boasts 76.
Gutiérrez, a Fire player since 2020, emphasized the positive changes in team culture introduced by Berhalter. “The biggest shift is in our culture and the relationships among teammates,” he noted. “Previously, we lacked that sense of togetherness, but now it’s visible on the field.”
Transforming Mediocrity into Ambition
In 2024, the Fire finished at the bottom of the Eastern Conference with only 30 points from 34 matches, struggling to shed a history of mediocrity that dates back years. The last time the team made the top 10 in the East was in 2019, and memories of their past glories, such as winning the MLS Cup in 1998, felt far removed.
Andrew Gutman, another player for the Fire, noted that an atmosphere of complacency had settled over the team. Despite their desire to win, draws and losses during away games became too common. “MLS can be a challenging league, especially on the road due to travel and varying climates,” he explained. “Unfortunately, we often played for draws away from home.”
Berhalter quickly recognized that to improve, the team needed to elevate its expectations across the board, both on and off the pitch. “Complacency is something we want to avoid,” he stated. “Every player, regardless of age or experience, has room to grow, and that’s a core principle of our philosophy.”
After opening 2025 with a 4-2 defeat to the Columbus Crew, the Fire went on to remain unbeaten in five consecutive matches, showcasing their progress under Berhalter. However, a match against the New York Red Bulls on April 5 revealed lingering issues when Chicago initially led but ended up losing 2-1. Berhalter expressed his frustration, making it clear that the previous standards of the team were no longer acceptable.
“I vividly recall our game against the Red Bulls when I sensed a shift,” Berhalter reflected. “While I typically maintain a calm demeanor, that match was pivotal. I aimed to convey our need to win, regardless of the location. I felt that the team was settling for draws or losses, which wasn’t good enough for our potential.”
This game proved to be a crucial moment for the Fire, according to Gutman. The disappointment made players realize the importance of high standards and the risks associated with a passive mentality. “He was incredibly frustrated because he believed we had the talent to win, and we fell short because of our mindset,” Gutman shared. “After that match, there was a significant shift in our mentality, reinforcing our objective to win every game.”
Following that defeat, the Fire achieved a record of nine away victories this season, with 41 goals scored on the road—the most in the league. With one regular season match remaining, the Fire trails only Cincinnati and San Diego for total away wins in the MLS. Berhalter has guided the team to nearly match their away victories from the last three seasons combined.
Facing the likes of Messi, Luis Suárez, Sergio Busquets, and Jordi Alba in their recent matchup against Inter Miami, Gutiérrez noted that the team felt confident, a testament to Berhalter’s leadership. “Entering that game, we didn’t feel the usual pressure. It was as if we were primed to secure a playoff spot. There was an unshakeable belief that we were set up to succeed.”
Under Berhalter’s guidance as head coach and director of football, the transformation in Chicago has been remarkable. The Fire have secured at least a wildcard position in the Eastern Conference playoffs, and they may earn a bye in the first round depending on the outcomes of upcoming matches. Despite previous struggles, Chicago’s ambitions are soaring as the players set their sights on the MLS Cup.
“I sensed the change when Gregg arrived; he brought a renewed hope to our club,” Gutman stated. “It’s evident we are moving towards reclaiming our former glory.”
With a refreshed culture, revised expectations, and a strong team dynamic, Berhalter is leading Chicago in pursuit of its first MLS Cup since 1998.
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