Alexi Lalas defends Gregg Berhalter as ‘One of the best coaches in USMNT history’
Former US Men’s National Team (USMNT) player and current soccer analyst Alexi Lalas has come to the defense of head coach Gregg Berhalter amid criticism that he is “average.” Lalas, who played for the USMNT from 1991 to 1998, called Berhalter “one of the best coaches in USMNT history” and praised his leadership and vision for the team.
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The criticism of Berhalter has come from some fans and analysts who feel that the team has not performed up to expectations under his leadership. However, Lalas argues that Berhalter has done an excellent job rebuilding the team and developing young talent.
“Gregg Berhalter is not an average coach,” Lalas said on a recent podcast episode. “He is one of the best coaches in USMNT history. He has a clear vision for the team and has done an incredible job developing young players and building a strong foundation for the future.”
Lalas also pointed to Berhalter’s success in leading the team to the final of the CONCACAF Nations League, where they defeated Mexico in a thrilling match. He argued that Berhalter’s tactical acumen and ability to motivate his players were vital to the team’s success.
“Gregg Berhalter is a coach who understands the game and knows how to get the best out of his players,” Lalas said. “He has a clear plan for how he wants the team to play, and he has the ability to make adjustments when needed. That’s what makes him such a great coach.”
Berhalter’s Future with the USMNT
Despite the criticism from some quarters, Berhalter’s future with the USMNT looks secure for the time being. He has the backing of the US Soccer Federation and has earned the respect of his players and staff.
Under Berhalter’s leadership, the USMNT has undergone a major rebuilding process, focusing on developing young talent and building a solid team culture. The team has shown signs of progress in recent months, with impressive wins over Mexico and Costa Rica, and looks poised to continue improving in the coming years.
As Lalas notes, Berhalter is a coach with a clear vision for the team and the ability to execute that vision. With his leadership and talent on
the roster, the USMNT can potentially be a significant force in international soccer in the future.
Of course, there will always be critics and naysayers, and Berhalter must continue proving himself and his coaching abilities. But as Lalas argues, the evidence speaks for itself: Berhalter is a coach who has achieved success at every level, from his time with the Columbus Crew in Major League Soccer to his current role with the USMNT.
As the team looks ahead to the upcoming World Cup qualifiers and the 2022 World Cup in Qatar, Berhalter will face new challenges and obstacles. But with his leadership, tactical understanding, and ability to develop young talent, he has the potential to lead the USMNT to new heights and cement his legacy as one of the best coaches in the team’s history.
For Lalas, there is no doubt that Berhalter is the right man for the job. “Gregg Berhalter is not an average coach,” he said. “He is a great coach, and he can take this team to the next level.” With Lalas and other supporters in his corner, Berhalter will have the confidence and backing to continue leading the USMNT toward success.
