What's Happening?
Steve Cherundolo has been appointed as the head coach of the U.S. Under-23 men's national soccer team, which will compete in the 2028 Summer Olympics. Cherundolo, a former head coach of LAFC and a decorated U.S. international player, brings a wealth of experience
to the role. He has previously appeared in three World Cups for the USMNT and earned 87 caps from 1999 to 2012. Cherundolo's coaching career includes winning the MLS Cup and the Supporters’ Shield with LAFC in 2022, as well as the U.S. Open Cup in 2024. The U.S. team, as the host nation, has automatically qualified for the Olympics, which will feature soccer matches across six MLS venues, with the gold medal match set for the Rose Bowl.
Why It's Important?
Cherundolo's appointment is significant as it marks a strategic move by U.S. Soccer to leverage his extensive experience and leadership skills to develop the next generation of American soccer talent. The 2028 Olympics present a critical platform for showcasing young players and engaging the U.S. fan base. With the U.S. automatically qualified as the host nation, there is an opportunity to build a competitive team that can contend for an Olympic medal on home soil. Cherundolo's leadership is expected to foster a team that embodies the values of U.S. Soccer and enhances the country's reputation in international soccer.
What's Next?
As the new head coach, Cherundolo will focus on building a cohesive team capable of competing at the highest level. This involves navigating the challenges of assembling a squad for the U-23 tournament, which allows for three over-age players but is not on the FIFA calendar, meaning clubs are not obligated to release players. Cherundolo will need to work closely with clubs and the U.S. Soccer Federation to ensure the best players are available. The upcoming years will be crucial for player development and team preparation as the U.S. aims to make a strong showing at the 2028 Olympics.
