Herculez Gomez has explained why he believes the U.S. should continue searching for high-profile managers if Jurgen Klopp is unavailable.
The United States Soccer Federation has started reaching out to potential candidates to replace recently dismissed manager Gregg Berhalter. One of the candidates includes former Liverpool manager Jürgen Klopp. However, it appears unlikely that Klopp will engage further in these discussions, according to sources.
Klopp, 57, has previously stated his desire to take a 12-month break from management after spending nearly nine years with Liverpool. A source mentioned that Klopp might even consider retiring, aside from the potential financial demands he might have, which would likely be in the eight-figure range.
The U.S. is in search of a new manager after officially parting ways with Berhalter following a disappointing performance in the 2024 Copa América, where the USMNT didn’t make it past the group stage.
U.S. Soccer sporting director Matt Crocker mentioned during a call with reporters that he intends to initiate the search “straight away” and aims to appoint a new manager by the September international window.
“I just want to get the best coach possible that can help the team win, and whether they’re from the U.S. or elsewhere, they’ve got to fit the profile, which includes being a serial winning coach who can continue to develop this potential group of players,” Crocker said.
While Crocker is looking to expedite the process, he is also making contingency plans to use an interim coach if necessary.
“I understand that there might be challenges in meeting the September deadline,” he said. “If it doesn’t happen, I have a contingency plan to ensure consistency through the September window to avoid any major disruption or change.”