Ex-U.S. Men’s National Team coach Gregg Berhalter has been appointed as the new head coach and director of football for the Chicago Fire. This significant move marks a new chapter for both Berhalter and the MLS club.
Berhalter’s previous tenure with the national team ended in July, following the team’s disappointing exit in the Copa America group stage. This was his second time leading the U.S. squad, showcasing his experience in high-stakes environments.
He steps in to replace Frank Klopas, who will transition to a new role as vice president of football after the Fire’s final regular-season match on October 19. This change reflects the club’s commitment to reshaping its leadership structure.
As the 10th head coach in the Fire’s history, Berhalter will oversee all sporting operations, which include the senior team, Fire FC II, and the Chicago Fire Academy. His leadership will be crucial in developing young talent and fostering a competitive atmosphere.
“Chicago is an incredible city, built on communities of hard-working and passionate people who truly love soccer. I look forward to working alongside our staff and players to transform the Fire into a world-class organization that all our fans and the city can be proud of and will support,” Berhalter expressed in a statement.
At 51, Berhalter made history as the first American to coach the national team after previously playing in a World Cup. His coaching journey began in December 2018, following experiences with Sweden’s Hammarby and the Columbus Crew.
Fire owner Joe Mansueto expressed confidence in Berhalter’s ability to build on the club’s foundation. “I expect that Gregg will create a competitive culture and return our club to its winning ways,” he stated, highlighting the importance of a strong leadership presence.
During his previous tenure with the U.S. team, Berhalter achieved a record of 44 wins, 17 losses, and 13 draws, leading the squad to the round of 16 in the 2022 World Cup in Qatar. His contract expired post-World Cup, but he was rehired in June 2023, indicating his value to the organization.
Earlier in 2023, U.S. Soccer conducted an investigation into a long-standing domestic violence allegation involving Berhalter, which was brought to light by the Reyna family amid concerns over Gio Reyna’s playing time during the World Cup. A law firm concluded that there were no legal barriers to Berhalter’s return.
While with the Columbus Crew from 2013 to 2018, Berhalter led the team to the playoffs in four out of five seasons, including a run to the MLS Cup final in 2015, showcasing his ability to foster competitive teams.
As a player, Berhalter represented the U.S. in two World Cups and made his international debut in 1994 against Saudi Arabia, where he faced off against Klopas, who scored during that match.
A native of New Jersey, Berhalter has lived in the Chicago area and boasts an extensive professional career spanning 18 seasons, including time in Europe and with the LA Galaxy.
Currently, the Fire holds a record of 7 wins, 9 losses, and 17 draws, having already been eliminated from postseason contention. The team has not made the playoffs since 2017, highlighting the challenges ahead for Berhalter.
This marks the seventh coaching change in MLS this season, with several clubs, including Austin FC and Nashville, also making significant changes to their coaching staff.
