Brian McBride out as GM of USMNT, says report
Brian McBride is reportedly not returning as the general manager of the United States men’s national team.
First reported by ESPN, sources with the sports news outlet claim that U.S. Soccer sporting director Earnie Stewart informed his board of directors of the move.
Decision on the move was made on Thursday
Stewart apparently told the board of the decision to let McBride go during a presentation on Thursday. The source also discussed the situation with the Associated Press on promises of anonymity.
Stewart is a former USMNT teammate of McBride and Gregg Berhalter.
McBride had previously held the role of general manager since 2020. The former forward scored 30 international goals during his time as a player for the USMNT. He was also a hit for Columbus Crew and Fulham as well.
Stewart featured in three World Cup tournaments for the American team. The Dutch-born forward began his post-playing career as the technical director of Eredivisie side NAC Breda in 2006.
Stewart then moved on to similar roles with AZ Alkmaar and Philadelphia Union. Later, he became the USMNT’s first ever general manger in 2018 and was then promoted to his current position a year later.
Shakeup could be the start of big changes for the USMNT
News of McBride’s firing comes at a bit of a contentious time within USMNT. Head coach Gregg Berhalter’s future is still very well up in the air.
The coach has endured a tough time since he was hired in 2018. Stewart initially recommended the hiring of Berhalter as USMNT head coach.
Berhalter is, however, currently being investigated by U.S. Soccer for a domestic violence incident from 1991. Although his contract as head coach has technically expired, there has not yet been an official decision on his role with the team.
The USMNT begins their first training session since the World Cup on Saturday. Berhalter will obviously not be involved. Anthony Hudson is currently leading the American squad on a temporary basis.
Photo credit: IMAGO / ANP