Do you think Jürgen Klinsmann is the right person to coach the USMNT?
After a long courtship, it appears US Soccer finally got its man.
Former Germany head coach and World Cup veteran Jürgen Klinsmann will succeed Bob Bradley as head coach of the US national team, US Soccer announced on Friday.
The appointment comes barely a day after Bradley was relieved of his duties following five years at the helm and despite the former MLS coach signing a new four-year contract last August.
“We are excited to have Jürgen as the head coach of our men’s national team,” said US Soccer president Sunil Gulati in a statement. “He is a highly accomplished player and coach with the experience and knowledge to advance the program. Jürgen has had success in many different areas of the game and we look forward to the leadership he will provide on and off the field.”
Klinsmann's first game in charge will be a friendly against archrivals Mexico on Aug. 10 in Philadelphia. A formal press conference will be held in New York on Monday to introduce Klinsmann.
“I am proud and honored to be named the head coach of the US men’s national team,” said Klinsmann. “I would like to thank the US Soccer Federation for the opportunity, and I’m excited about the challenge ahead. I am looking forward to bringing the team together for our upcoming match against Mexico and starting on the road toward qualifying for the 2014 FIFA World Cup.”
Bradley was hired as head coach in January 2007, replacing his onetime mentor, Bruce Arena. Bradley was first named interim head coach, while the federation reportedly negotiated with several other candidates, including Klinsmann.
During Bradley's five years in charge, he compiled a 43-25-12 record. His sides accomplished many things, including winning the 2007 Gold Cup and reaching the final of both the 2009 Confederations Cup and the 2009 Gold Cup.
