The U.S. Soccer Federation announced Sunday morning that it has decided to hire former UNC All-American Gregg Berhalter as the new head coach of the men’s national team.

A two-time World Cup veteran for the U.S., Berhalter becomes the first player with World Cup experience for the country to take over as head coach.

He has 25 years of experience as a player and head coach for clubs in England, Germany, the Netherlands, Sweden and the United States.

While at UNC, Berhalter was named an All-American in 1992 and 1993 and was recognized in 2002 as one of the top 50 men’s soccer players in ACC history.

Berhalter’s most recent coaching job was with Columbus Crew SC in MLS, where he led the team to the 2017 Eastern Conference Final.

Now, though, he’s tasked with taking over the national team at an important time. The U.S. failed to qualify for the 2018 World Cup and is in the midst of a crucial transition period.

“This is a tremendous honor,” Berhalter said. “Having played for the National Team I know what it means to represent our country.  I believe in our players and our program, and together we will work to build something special and develop a team that will make our supporters proud.”

 

Photo via Associated Press

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