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U.S. Soccer's Bold Move: Steve Cherundolo Tapped to Lead U-23 Olympic Squad
U.S. Soccer is wasting no time charting its future, especially with the 2028 Los Angeles Olympics on the horizon. A significant appointment has just been made, signaling strong ambition for the next generation of American talent. Former USMNT stalwart and LAFC championship-winning coach, Steve Cherundolo, is officially taking the helm of the U.S. U-23 men's national team.
This pivotal move, announced swiftly after the senior team's World Cup run concluded, places a decorated figure in charge of the squad preparing for glory on home soil.
Key Takeaways:
- Steve Cherundolo has been appointed head coach of the U.S. U-23 men's national team.
- His primary task is to lead the squad to the 2028 Los Angeles Olympics, held in his former club city.
- Cherundolo brings a wealth of experience as a USMNT player (87 caps) and a highly successful coach, winning MLS Cup and Supporters' Shield with LAFC.
- The appointment, overseen by U.S. Soccer's VP of Sporting, Oguchi Onyewu, underscores a commitment to nurturing young American talent.
A Champion's Pedigree: Cherundolo's Journey
Steve Cherundolo's return to the national team setup is a story steeped in American soccer history. As a player, he amassed an impressive 87 caps for the USMNT between 1999 and 2012, featuring in three World Cups. His loyalty and longevity were also evident at club level, where he played an incredible 15 seasons for Hannover 96 in Germany, setting a record as the longest-serving American in Bundesliga history. Such dedication earned him a spot in the USMNT All-Time Best XI and the National Soccer Hall of Fame.
Transition to the Touchline
Transitioning from decorated player to successful coach, Cherundolo quickly proved his mettle. After initial stints coaching youth teams in Germany, he took charge of USL side Las Vegas Lights in 2021. His big breakthrough came in 2022, leading LAFC to a historic MLS Cup and Supporters' Shield double in his very first season. He added a U.S. Open Cup title in 2024, demonstrating his consistent ability to build winning teams. This stellar coaching resume makes him an ideal candidate to guide the nation's brightest young prospects.
The Olympic Vision: Building for 2028
Cherundolo wasted no time expressing his enthusiasm for the role, emphasizing the honor and responsibility of leading the Olympic squad. "Representing the United States at the Olympic Games is one of the greatest honors in sports, and I’m grateful for the opportunity to lead this team," he stated. His vision includes fostering an environment where players can challenge themselves, grow, and represent the country with pride, embodying courage, humility, and a clear identity.
A Trusting Endorsement
U.S. Soccer's Vice President of Sporting, Oguchi Onyewu, played a key role in the hiring, highlighting Cherundolo's unique blend of American and European soccer insights. "Steve’s extensive coaching experience and having gone through the American youth soccer system gives him a unique understanding of American and European style of play that will allow him to maximize and nurture the players’ potential," Onyewu explained. Having played alongside Cherundolo in two World Cups, Onyewu's personal endorsement speaks volumes about the impact his former teammate can have on a group.
Cultivating the Next Generation: U-23 Landscape
The U.S. U-23 program has already been active this year, showcasing a promising talent pool. In March, the squad secured impressive victories over Japan and South Korea. June friendlies saw them defeat Ukraine before a narrow loss to Uzbekistan. These matches have featured a mix of European-based talents like Damion Downs, Cole Campbell, and Rokas Pukstas, alongside rising MLS stars such as Peyton Miller, Reed Baker-Whiting, and Taha Habroune. Cherundolo takes over from former coach Marko Mitrovic, now with the New England Revolution.
The Road Ahead: Training & Friendlies
Cherundolo's immediate focus will be on building the U-23 program towards the 2028 Olympic tournament. This involves intensive training sessions at the state-of-the-art Arthur M. Blank U.S. Soccer National Training Center in Georgia, complemented by a schedule of international friendlies. With the next official international break set for September 21 through October 6, the strategic build-up to Los Angeles 2028 has officially begun.
With the 2028 Los Angeles Olympics on the horizon, Steve Cherundolo's appointment represents a clear strategic move by U.S. Soccer to nurture its rising stars under proven leadership. The road to gold starts now.
