Ornstein: Klopp Declines USMNT Job Offer | OneFootball

Jurgen Klopp Declines USMNT Coaching Role

Jurgen Klopp’s decision to decline an offer from the United States Soccer Federation (USSF) to lead the men’s national team has caught the attention of the football world. This news was initially reported by David Ornstein in The Athletic, highlighting a pivotal moment for both Klopp and US soccer.

Klopp’s Need for a Break

After an illustrious tenure at Liverpool, Klopp’s choice to step back comes from a need for respite rather than a disinterest in new challenges. His departure from Liverpool was marked by heartfelt words about his connection to the club and the physical toll the role had taken on him. “I am running out of energy,” Klopp admitted earlier this year, signalling that his break from football was more about self-preservation than anything else. This sentiment brings a personal dimension to what might otherwise be seen as a mere career decision.

Photo: IMAGO

The USMNT’s Search Continues

The USSF’s pursuit of Klopp was motivated by a desire to inject proven leadership ahead of the 2026 World Cup, which the US is set to co-host with Canada and Mexico. The federation is keenly aware of the need for a strong figurehead after the USMNT’s disappointing exit in the group stage of the recent Copa America— a tournament held on their turf, which only intensified the scrutiny.

U.S. Soccer’s sporting director, Matt Crocker, was candid about their intentions following the sacking of Gregg Berhalter: “Our immediate focus is on finding a coach who can maximize our potential as we continue to prepare for the 2026 World Cup.” This statement underscores the urgency and high stakes involved in their ongoing search.

Photo IMAGO

Lessons from Liverpool’s Success

Klopp’s time at Liverpool was transformative, culminating in a Premier League title and a Champions League victory. The style and strategy he brought to Liverpool—characterized by intense pressing and dynamic forward play—might have been seen as an ideal fit for a USMNT looking to elevate their international stature. His decision to decline the role, therefore, is a significant ‘what could have been’ moment for US soccer enthusiasts.

Reflecting on USMNT’s Current State

The USMNT’s recent performances, including their early exit from Copa America, highlight deeper issues within the team’s setup. Despite past successes under Berhalter, including reaching the knockout stages of the 2022 World Cup and winning titles in the CONCACAF Nations League and Gold Cup, the inconsistency and internal conflicts have painted a picture of a team at a crossroads.

Crocker’s reflection on the Copa America campaign was telling: “Our tournament performance fell short of our expectations. We must do better.” This candid acknowledgement suggests a readiness within US Soccer to rethink and rebuild, though without Klopp at the helm.

In conclusion, while Klopp’s decision might be a setback for the USSF, it also serves as a crucial period of introspection and recalibration. As the search for a new head coach continues, the lessons from Klopp’s managerial ethos could still inform the USMNT’s approach, even in his absence.