The criteria were stringent, the data analytics were cutting-edge, the metrics were advanced, and the hiring methods were innovative. As U.S. Soccer embarked on its global search for a new men’s national team coach last year, they had a multifaceted evaluation mechanism at their disposal. Matt Crocker, the technical director of U.S. Soccer, identified 22 elements essential for coaching a soccer team, including “player off-camp engagement” and “squad auditing,” along with eight core competencies.
Despite ticking every box and covering all bases, the search ended with Gregg Berhalter being replaced by Matt Crocker himself. In hindsight, it became evident that a ninth core competency was needed for the coach of the U.S. men’s national team: Avoid losing to Panama.
Following a disappointing loss to Panama and elimination from Copa América at the group stage, there has been a wave of dissatisfaction among fans. Calls for a change in the head coaching position have grown louder, with the American Outlaws, the largest U.S. Soccer supporter group, issuing a statement in corporate speak urging for a new coach.
While U.S. Soccer has focused on big-picture thinking and vision-led identities, the recent underwhelming performances have raised questions about the effectiveness of the coaching staff. With talented players in their prime, the expectations for the national team are high, and the pressure to deliver results is mounting.
Ultimately, the role of a national team coach is to guide the team to success on the field, not just to change perceptions of American soccer. While it is important to have a long-term vision for the sport, immediate results and performance should not be overlooked. The focus should be on developing a winning team that can compete at the highest level, rather than just winning hearts and minds.