U.S. Soccer announced this week that Steve Cherundolo will guide the under‑23 men’s national team through the 2028 Olympic Games, a tournament that will be staged across the United States, with Los Angeles serving as the primary hub.
Cherundolo’s Playing Legacy
A product of the U.S. developmental system, Cherundolo earned 87 caps for the senior side between 1999 and 2012, earning a reputation as a tenacious full‑back and a reliable set‑piece specialist.
Transitioning to the touchline, he quickly made his mark in Major League Soccer, first with Charleston Battery before taking the reins of LAFC. In his short tenure he steered the club to the 2022 MLS Cup and also secured the Supporters’ Shield, showcasing an ability to blend youthful talent with experienced leadership.
The U.S. will automatically qualify for the Olympic soccer competition as the host nation, and Cherundolo will be permitted to add three over‑age players to his U‑23 roster, a tactical flexibility that could reshape the team’s approach on the world stage.
The competition schedule promises matches in a dozen venues, ranging from the historic Rose Bowl in Pasadena to the modern stadiums of New York City, Columbus, Nashville, St. Louis, San Jose, and San Diego, while additional games are slated for venues in Rio de Janeiro and Sydney as part of the broader Olympic program.
Historically, the U.S. men have fallen short of an Olympic medal, with the best modern finish a bronze‑medal match loss in 2000. Cherundolo’s appointment signals a renewed focus on blending home‑grown talent with strategic over‑age additions, aiming to break that drought.
U.S. Soccer’s leadership praised the choice, citing Cherundolo’s deep understanding of the player pool and his proven ability to develop winning cultures as the nation looks to finally stand on the podium.