2026 World Cup Hinges on Crucial Summer for Berhalter as USMNT Faces Tough Test in Copa America

Despite achieving no notable successes since becoming the manager of the USMNT in 2018, Gregg Berhalter has been selected to lead the men’s national team into the highly anticipated 2026 World Cup, which will take place in North America for the first time since 1994. With the upcoming Copa America tournament serving as a significant test for the team prior to the World Cup, Fox Sports soccer analyst Stu Holden expressed his belief that this summer will be crucial for Berhalter. “This is a huge summer for Gregg Berhalter,” remarked Holden during an interview with Fox News. “You’re going to have the Gold Cup in ’25, but this is going to be the biggest test this team will face ahead of the ’26 World Cup,” he added. “Because you’re going to play Uruguay [in Copa America]. If the U.S. can make it out of the group stage, they’re going to probably get Brazil or Colombia in a quarterfinal. That’s awesome.” Holden further stated that Berhalter has plenty to prove between now and the 2026 World Cup if he hopes to remain as the team’s leader. However, Berhalter’s recent victory against Mexico in the Nations League final has instilled confidence in Holden regarding his ability to guide the team towards success in the future. Nevertheless, Holden admitted that he is beginning to harbor doubts concerning Berhalter’s suitability for the role in light of his unremarkable track record and mediocre display at the 2022 World Cup. “Yet, in the real games he’d had to prove that again, they smashed Mexico in the final of the Nations League. I have confidence he can put this team in the best position to succeed in 2026, yet 2024 this Copa America becomes that really important litmus test that we’ll really have the best sense of if he can,” Holden concluded. Berhalter’s contract expired at the conclusion of 2022, prompting speculation that he might be replaced. Nonetheless, following a series of discussions aimed at placating individuals pushing for Berhalter’s dismissal, the USMNT decided to extend his contract until 2026. However, those opposed to Berhalter’s tenure as manager might still hold out hope for a change given the numerous trials facing both Berhalter and the USMNT between now and the 2026 World Cup.