Ex-USMNT coach Gregg Berhalter faces challenges in MLS with Chicago Fire, a team he believes has untapped potential. He refers to the franchise as a “sleeping giant” ready for a resurgence.
On Thursday, Berhalter was officially introduced as the head coach of the Fire. This marked his first public appearance with the club after being named both head coach and director of football just a week prior.
“I genuinely view this opportunity as a sleeping giant,” Berhalter stated. “We are committed to doing everything possible to bring this team back to the forefront of Major League Soccer. Chicago embodies community spirit, and the passion for sports here is invigorating.”
Berhalter takes over from Frank Klopas, who will transition to a new role as the team’s vice president of football following the last regular-season game.
Previously, Berhalter was let go as the U.S. men’s national team coach in July after the team exited the Copa América in the group stage. This was his second term with the national team.
He now becomes the 10th head coach in the Fire’s history. Currently, the team holds a record of 7-9-17, placing them at the bottom of the Eastern Conference and out of playoff contention.
The Fire have not reached the playoffs since 2017, a fact that weighs heavily on the franchise.
“My focus is on making a commitment to our fans, delivering a product they can take pride in,” Berhalter emphasized. “We want to create an exciting atmosphere in Major League Soccer. Our goal is to become a dominant force in the league. It will take time, but we are determined to achieve it.”
In his dual role, he will oversee all sporting operations for Chicago, including the senior team, Fire FC II, and the Chicago Fire Academy.
Joe Mansueto, the team owner, noted that Berhalter was already engaged in roster discussions shortly after signing his contract.
“His deep understanding of the game is evident; he operates at a distinct level,” Mansueto remarked. “He approaches the game with an analytical mindset, focusing on processes and strategies rather than impulsivity.”
Mansueto also mentioned plans for a potential soccer-specific stadium in Chicago, as the Fire currently play at Soldier Field.
At 51, Berhalter made history as the first American to coach the national team after representing the U.S. in a World Cup. His coaching career began in December 2018, following experiences with Sweden’s Hammarby (2011-2013) and the Columbus Crew (2013-2018).
During his tenure with the national team, Berhalter achieved a record of 44 wins, 17 losses, and 13 draws, leading the squad to the round of 16 at the 2022 World Cup in Qatar. His contract lapsed post-World Cup, but he was reinstated in June 2023.
Earlier that year, U.S. Soccer conducted an investigation into a long-standing domestic violence allegation linked to Berhalter, which came to light following limited playing time for Gio Reyna during the World Cup. A law firm confirmed there were no legal barriers to his return.
As the Crew’s head coach from 2013-2018, Berhalter guided the team to the playoffs in four out of five seasons, including a run to the 2015 MLS Cup final.
