If USA fails at Copa America, could Marsch replace Berhalter?

The United States men’s national team picked up another Nations League success under Gregg Berhalter. Berhalter has shown massive success in North America as the man in charge of a pair of Nations League crowns and the 2021 Gold Cup. Plus, he got the squad back to the World Cup after the disaster of 2018. Still, critics point to a lack of results against top teams from outside North America and the Caribbean. With a host of talented and powerful nations coming to the United States this summer in the Copa America, Berhalter will be under mounting pressure to pull out results.

If Copa America does not go well for the United States and Berhalter’s USMNT exit in the group stage or the round of 16, Jesse Marsch would be a natural replacement. Ironically, the two engaged in some petty back-and-forth throughout the Nations League. That stemmed from Marsch questioning Reyna’s inclusion in the squad on the CBS podcast Call it What You Want based on his availability and experience at Nottingham Forest. Berhalter hit back with a comment directed toward Marsch.

“I think I heard somewhere that someone asked, ‘Why did Gio get called into camp?’ did you guys hear that?” Berhalter said. “Anyone? I think he showed why tonight. It’s clear he deserves to play on this team.”

Certainly, Berhalter was right. Reyna picked up two assists in the Nations League semifinal against Jamaica before scoring the second goal in the win over Mexico in the Nations League Final. Yet, the comments directed at Marsch highlighted another issue for Berhalter. The past issues with Reyna are a microcosm of player selection issues. Haji Wright, for example, was not in the original squad, and the Coventry City striker only joined the side after an injury to Josh Sargent. He scored a brace in extra time to defeat Jamaica.

Marsch critical of USA under Berhalter

Player suggestion is one thing. Berhalter has also been under fire for his in-game tactics and managerial…


Source link : https://worldsoccertalk.com/news/if-usa-fails-at-copa-america-could-marsch-replace-berhalter

Author : Kyle Fansler

Publish date : 2024-03-25 18:33:33

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