In a significant shift in leadership, former U.S. Men’s National Team manager Gregg Berhalter has been appointed as the director of football and head coach of the Chicago Fire, as confirmed by the club on Tuesday. This announcement marks a pivotal moment not only for Berhalter, who brings a wealth of experience to the role, but also for a franchise that has struggled to regain its footing in Major League Soccer (MLS) for well over a decade. Berhalter, now 51, steps into a dual role that encompasses oversight of all technical aspects, spanning the first team and extending to the reserve squad competing in MLS Next Pro and the youth academy.
His predecessor, Georg Heitz, is leaving the position of director of football, while Frank Klopas, who managed the first team, will transition to a new role as vice president of football after the conclusion of the regular season. This shakeup aims to instill a renewed sense of direction and purpose within the organization, as they look to restore Chicago Fire’s legacy in the league.
“I’m honored to be named Director of Football and Head Coach of the Chicago Fire, and I would like to thank Joe Mansueto for his trust,” Berhalter stated, expressing his eagerness to embrace his new role. He lauded Chicago as a city deeply passionate about soccer, where he and his family have settled over six rewarding years. Moreover, he emphasized his alignment with owner Joe Mansueto’s vision of elevating the Fire into a premier, world-class organization that can inspire pride among fans and the broader community.
This commitment to transforming the club comes at a time when the Chicago Fire has seen a disheartening lack of success, managing only two playoff appearances in the last 15 years and enduring a dismal stretch of seven consecutive seasons without postseason qualification. The weight of this legacy looms large over Berhalter as he embarks on this challenging journey.
Berhalter enters his new role armed with an impressive resume that includes a notable tenure as the manager of the U.S. Men’s National Team, where he oversaw the squad’s qualification for the 2022 FIFA World Cup and guided them to the round of 16. However, his time culminated under less favorable circumstances, following a disappointing Copa América campaign in 2024 that saw the team fail to advance beyond the group stage. Despite some highs, his overall record with the national team remains a point of contention, standing at 44 wins, 17 losses, and 13 draws.
The decision to put Berhalter in charge was endorsed by Joe Mansueto, who highlighted the thorough search process for a suitable candidate. “It became clear that Gregg Berhalter was the right choice to lead our sporting operations,” Mansueto remarked, noting Berhalter’s experience and prior triumphs in the MLS. His previous role, as both manager and sporting director of the Columbus Crew, underscores Berhalter’s proven ability to wear multiple hats and thrive in a high-pressure environment.
Before stepping into management, Berhalter enjoyed a successful playing career spanning 18 years across leagues in the Netherlands, England, Germany, and the United States. He represented the U.S. national team in two World Cups and earned 44 caps, establishing a firm reputation as a central defender. This blend of managerial and playing experience positions him uniquely to connect with both players and fans at the Chicago Fire.
As the team prepares for its last match of the MLS regular season against Nashville, anticipation is building around Berhalter’s formal introduction and what it will mean for the future. His leadership will be instrumental in redefining the Fire’s identity and aspirations in American soccer, aiming to recapture the glory it once enjoyed.
As the Chicago Fire embraces this leadership change, the expectations are high for Berhalter. Hopeful fans look forward to a revival and a renewed competitive spirit, with the belief that under Berhalter’s guidance, the organization can turn the page and re-establish itself as a force to be reckoned with in MLS.