Steve Cherundolo Takes the Helm of U.S. U‑23 Squad
Steve Cherundolo, the former head coach of Los Angeles FC, has been named the new manager of the United States Under‑23 men’s national team, a role that will see him guide the side at the 2028 Summer Olympics in Los Angeles.
Cherundolo’s appointment follows a decorated stint with LAFC, where he steered the club from 2022 through 2025, capturing an MLS Cup, a Supporters’ Shield and the U.S. Open Cup, establishing himself as one of the most successful coaches in recent MLS history.
The United States automatically earned a spot in the 2028 Games as the host nation, a privilege that comes with a reduced tournament field of just twelve teams, down from the sixteen that competed in recent editions.
Under the Olympic format, each nation may field up to three players over the age of twenty‑three, a rule that Cherundolo plans to use strategically as he blends youthful prospects with experienced over‑age talent.
The coach highlighted the importance of developing home‑grown talent while also leveraging the excitement of a home crowd, noting that the U.S. aims to add an Olympic medal to its soccer pedigree after a quarter‑final run at the 2024 Paris Games.
Players such as Christian Pulisic, Weston McKennie and Chris Richards are expected to be part of the conversation, while the coaching staff will look to integrate emerging stars and maintain a competitive edge against traditional powerhouses like Mexico, who captured gold in 2012.