The former USMNT head coach took charge of the Fire during the offseason and has been impressing fans with his moves in training
Berhalter appointed as general manager and head coachSignificant roster overhaul during the offseasonFire face Crew in their 2025 MLS openerGet the MLS Season Pass today!Stream games nowWHAT HAPPENED
In a recent training session, Gregg Berhalter, newly appointed head coach and general manager of Chicago Fire FC, surprised players and staff alike with his skills. The former USMNT coach showcased his still-sharp crossing ability while demonstrating tactical drills, setting a high-energy tone for the team’s pre-season preparations. It had fans jokingly clamoring to see the manager start for the Fire with some even awarding Berhalter ‘the No. 10 and a starting spot’.
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Berhalter was appointed as the new head coach for the Chicago Fire in November 2024 and has been tasked with revitalizing the struggling franchise. The Fire finished last in the Eastern Conference at the end of the 2024 MLS season but that hasn’t deterred the former USMNT boss. Instead, it has spurred Berhalter on as he sees it as a challenge and the chance to bring them back to glory.
"This is a great opportunity. I said it when I got the job: Obviously, Chicago is a sleeping giant, the third biggest market in America, an owner that’s really investing in the team to be successful. [He's] investing in the facilities, whether that’s the training ground or potential stadium, investing in the roster,” Berhalter said.
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Chicago Fire's 2025 preseason ended on Feb. 15 after their match against LA Galaxy at the Coachella Valley Invitational. During preseason, they've faced Brazilian club Fortaleza and Sporting Kansas City, followed by LAFC, Portland Timbers, San Jose Earthquakes, and LA Galaxy in California. While the Fire did lose to LAFC and Fortaleza, they still walk into their 2025 MLS opener against Columbus Crew on Feb. 22 unbeaten in their last four games.