U.S. Soccer announced this week that Steve Cherundolo will take charge of the under‑23 men’s national team as it prepares for the 2028 Summer Olympics, a tournament that will be staged on home soil.
Cherundolo, who hung up his playing boots after a distinguished international career, brings a blend of top‑level experience and modern coaching acumen that the federation believes can translate into Olympic success.
During a 15‑year stint in the Bundesliga with Hannover 96, he amassed 87 caps for the United States and featured in three World Cups, before moving to Major League Soccer where he led LAFC to multiple trophies, including the MLS Cup, the Supporters’ Shield and the U.S. Open Cup.
A New Era for Olympic Development
After stepping down from LAFC to return to Germany with his family, Cherundolo said he was eager to give back to the development pathway that helped him, and he sees the Olympic role as a natural next step.
U.S. Soccer Federation chief operating officer Dan Helfrich praised the appointment, highlighting Cherundolo’s leadership qualities and his proven ability to nurture young talent.
Because the United States will host the Games, the men’s under‑23 side automatically earns a spot in the competition, which will be spread across six MLS venues, with the final scheduled at the iconic Rose Bowl in Pasadena.
The Olympic tournament is effectively a U‑23 event, though each squad may field up to three over‑age players, a rule that adds a strategic layer to team building.
Cherundolo’s first priority, he said, is to blend the energy of emerging prospects with the occasional veteran presence, aiming to recreate the 2000 Sydney Olympics run that saw the U.S. reach the semifinals.
The upcoming cycle promises a fresh narrative for American soccer, one that could cement the country’s growing reputation on the continental stage.