Gregg Berhalter, the former head coach of the US men’s national team, is returning to Major League Soccer. The Chicago Fire announced on Tuesday that Berhalter has been appointed as their new head coach and director of football, marking a significant move for the club.
Berhalter, who was dismissed from his role as US men’s national team head coach in July after the team’s disappointing early exit from the Copa America, is no stranger to the MLS. He previously led the Columbus Crew from 2013 to 2018, achieving impressive results. During his tenure with the Crew, he guided the team to the playoffs four times in five seasons, including a trip to the MLS Cup in 2015. His experience in a dual role, leading both the coaching and sporting aspects of the club, has made him a highly sought-after figure in the league.
Berhalter’s appointment comes after a thorough search process by the Chicago Fire, which included considering numerous strong candidates. Joe Mansueto, the Fire’s owner and chairman, expressed his confidence in Berhalter’s ability to lead the club’s sporting operations. He highlighted Berhalter’s previous success in MLS, his experience in a dual role, and his leadership of the US men’s national team over the past six years as key factors in his selection.
“After a thorough and detailed search that included a number of exceptional candidates, it became clear that Gregg Berhalter was the right choice to lead our sporting operations,” said Mansueto in a news release. “His previous success in MLS, where he thrived in a dual role, and his experience leading the US men’s national team over the last six years make him an ideal fit for our vision for the Club moving forward.”
Berhalter is set to officially begin his new role with the Fire after the conclusion of the 2024 MLS regular season. Current Fire head coach Frank Klopas will step down from his position after the team’s final regular season match on October 19 and then transition to a new role as vice president of football.
With Berhalter at the helm, the Chicago Fire are hoping to usher in a new era of success and return to the top of the MLS standings. His experience and leadership will be crucial as the club aims to achieve its goals both on and off the field.
