Luis de la Fuente, the successful manager of the Spanish national team who recently secured victory in Euro 2024, is rumored to be interested in taking on a new challenge as the manager of the USA national team. After leading Spain to an impressive triumph in Germany, winning all seven matches, including the final against England, de la Fuente is said to be eyeing the opportunity to lead one of the co-hosts for the upcoming 2026 World Cup, which includes the United States.
According to the Washington Post, de la Fuente’s representatives have already reached out to the US football association to express his interest in the position. This comes at a time when the American national team is seeking a new head coach following Gregg Berhalter’s dismissal. The team’s disappointing performance at the Copa America, where they were eliminated in the group stage on home soil, has led the US chiefs to prioritize finding a “serial winner” to guide the team towards success in the World Cup.
In their search for a new coach, the US football association has approached several high-profile names. One such name was Jurgen Klopp, the legendary former Liverpool manager. However, Klopp declined the offer, stating his desire for an extended break from football after his departure from Anfield earlier this year. Another candidate being considered is Steve Cherundolo, the current manager of LAFC, who has impressed during his two-year tenure in Los Angeles.
De la Fuente, on the other hand, is contracted with Spain until July 2026 and is expected to lead his country into the World Cup after his remarkable success in Euro 2024. Despite his achievements, Spanish football expert Guillem Balague revealed that de la Fuente’s wages are “very, very low,” suggesting that his decision to explore opportunities with the US national team may be driven by a desire to have his value recognized by the Spanish Football Association.
Interestingly, Balague also mentioned that another Spanish manager, Rafa Benitez, who previously won the Champions League with Liverpool, has expressed a strong interest in the role. It remains to be seen how the situation will unfold and whether de la Fuente or Benitez will ultimately take charge of the USA national team.