The U. S.
Soccer Federation announced Thursday, July 9, 2026, the appointment of National Soccer Hall of Fame member Steve Cherundolo as head coach of the Under-23 men's national team for the 2028 Summer Olympics in Los Angeles.
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As the host nation, the United States automatically qualifies for the 12-team tournament, eliminating the need for a qualifying campaign.
Rosters are restricted to players aged 23 and under, with FIFA allowing three overage players per team.
Cherundolo, 47, previously managed Los Angeles FC from 2022 to 2025.
He recorded 106 wins, 55 losses, and 32 draws, leading the club to the 2022 MLS Cup and the 2024 U.
S. Open Cup.
He stepped down after the 2025 season to return to Germany with his family.
"Throughout his career, Steve Cherundolo has been a proven winner, an elite talent developer, and a great ambassador for American soccer," said USSF chief executive Dan Helfrich.
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"The 2028 Olympics present a critical platform to develop our next generation of players and further engage our passionate fan base as we pursue an Olympic medal at home."
According to the USSF, Cherundolo will split his time between the United States and Europe.
He will operate out of the new national training center near Atlanta and coordinate international camps where many Olympic prospects compete professionally.
"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," Cherundolo said.
"I believe we have an exciting group of players with tremendous potential, and I'm looking forward to building an environment where they can challenge themselves, grow together and represent our country with pride."
The USSF is also in discussions with Mauricio Pochettino regarding the senior national team coaching position following a World Cup campaign that reached the Round of 16.
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If an agreement is not finalized, a global search will commence to prepare the senior squad for the 2030 tournament.
