If you’re reading this you probably already know the disarray that the US Soccer men’s program is in. The team does not have a coach or a sporting director or a general manager overseeing operations. While we qualified for the knockout rounds of the 2022 World Cup, we had problems scoring goals and made sure to negligibly use one of our most promising players in Gio Reyna. I’ve made lots of attempts to define the problems and solutions for the USMNT, but I thought I’d ask ChatGPT for a new perspective.
ChatGPT is an AI language model designed to understand and generate human-like text based on the input it receives, and can answer questions, provide suggestions, or offer insights on a wide range of topics.
Here’s the deal: I have 25 prompts to have ChatGPT4 save the USMNT and help put in place a plan to win the 2026 World Cup.
First I have to explain the situation to get some basic facts and then we can dive into the specifics. Do we need a new coach? Do we need certain players to move to certain teams? Do we need dual nationals to commit? What formation and style should we play with?
Spoiler alert… I actually think we should follow the advice provided and it does give a realistic scenario where the US wins the 2026 World Cup.
Jake: Hey chatGPT, I hope you're doing well. Thanks for helping today. I wanted to ask for help to build a plan for how the USMNT can win the 2026 World Cup. Knowing we don't have a coach, and most of our squad is young, what would need to happen for the USA to win the 2026 World Cup on home soil?
ChatGPT: Hello! I'm happy to help you build a plan for the USMNT to win the 2026 World Cup. Here's a comprehensive strategy that could be put into place to maximize the team's chances of success:
Hire a world-class coach: The USMNT should invest in a highly experienced and successful coach, preferably someone with a proven track record in international soccer. This individual should have a clear tactical philosophy and be able to adapt to the unique characteristics of American soccer.
Develop a long-term player development program: The USMNT should establish a comprehensive youth development program that focuses on identifying and nurturing talented players from a young age. This program should collaborate closely with MLS academies, USL teams, and college soccer programs.
Improve scouting and recruitment: The USMNT should invest in a robust scouting network that identifies talented players both domestically and internationally, including dual-national players who could represent the United States.
Establish a strong tactical identity: The team should focus on building a cohesive playing style that emphasizes quick passing, high pressing, and dynamic attacking play. This tactical identity should be taught at all levels of the national team setup, from the youth teams to the senior team.
Emphasize physical conditioning and sports science: The USMNT should prioritize player fitness and utilize advanced sports science techniques to minimize injuries and optimize performance.
Focus on mental preparation: The team should work with sports psychologists and mental conditioning coaches to build a strong winning mentality and enhance player focus and resilience under pressure.
Utilize data analysis: The USMNT should invest in advanced data analytics tools to track player performance, identify opponents' weaknesses, and tailor training sessions and tactics accordingly.
Foster team chemistry: The coaching staff should focus on building a strong team culture that emphasizes unity, trust, and support for one another. Frequent team-building exercises and clear communication channels can help in this regard.
Develop strong partnerships with clubs: The USMNT should work closely with domestic and international clubs to ensure that American players receive adequate playing time and opportunities to develop.
Gain experience through friendly matches and tournaments: The team should participate in competitive international friendly matches and tournaments like the Gold Cup and Copa America to gain valuable experience against top teams from around the world.
By implementing this strategic plan, the USMNT can maximize its chances of winning the 2026 World Cup on home soil. It will require significant investment, time, and commitment from all stakeholders, but with the right approach, the United States can become a force to be reckoned with in international soccer.
Jake: That's great thank you so much. Let's start from the top then. Are there any specific coaches that the USMNT should seek to interview for the position? Someone with a winning international pedigree?
ChatGPT: Certainly! Here are a few potential coaching candidates with strong international pedigrees who could be considered for the USMNT head coach position:
Carlo Ancelotti: The Italian manager has an impressive resume with numerous league titles and Champions League trophies. His experience with clubs like AC Milan, Real Madrid, Bayern Munich, and Everton make him a well-rounded candidate who can handle high-pressure situations.
Massimiliano Allegri: Allegri has a wealth of experience managing top European clubs, most notably Juventus, where he won several Serie A titles and reached the Champions League final twice. He is tactically versatile and has a proven ability to develop young talent.
Marcelo Bielsa: Known for his high-intensity playing style and strong tactical acumen, Bielsa has coached numerous teams at both club and international levels, including Argentina and Chile. His experience and philosophy could be a great fit for the USMNT's young and energetic squad.
Joachim Löw: As the former head coach of the German national team, Löw led the team to victory in the 2014 World Cup and reached the semifinals in the 2010 and 2018 editions. His experience in managing top international talent and understanding of modern tactics could be invaluable for the USMNT.
Luis Enrique: The current Spain national team coach and former Barcelona manager has a wealth of experience in top-level football. His playing style, focusing on possession and high-pressing, could be a good fit for the USMNT's young squad.
Rafa Benitez: With a wealth of experience in European club football and a Champions League title under his belt, Benitez has shown his tactical nous and adaptability throughout his career. He has experience managing in various leagues, including the English Premier League, La Liga, and Serie A.
These are just a few of the many qualified coaching candidates who could be considered for the USMNT head coach position. While some of them may not be available or interested in the role, their experience, tactical acumen, and proven ability to develop talent make them strong potential candidates.
Jake: Do you have a favored American coach that would give us the best chance to win the World Cup? Potentially rehiring Gregg Berhalter, or Jesse Marsch, or Jim Curtin?
ChatGPT: While there are several talented American coaches, choosing the best one for the USMNT depends on various factors, such as their tactical philosophy, ability to develop young talent, and experience at the highest level. Here are the three coaches you mentioned and their respective strengths:
Gregg Berhalter: Rehiring Berhalter could be a sensible option, given his familiarity with the current USMNT players and system. He has shown an ability to develop young talents and implement a clear tactical philosophy. However, his international experience is relatively limited, and some might argue for a fresh approach.
Jesse Marsch: Marsch has been successful at both the domestic and European levels, coaching the New York Red Bulls in MLS and then moving to Europe to coach Red Bull Salzburg and RB Leipzig. His experience in Europe could be invaluable for the USMNT, and his high-pressing, high-intensity style could be a good fit for the team's young and athletic players.
Jim Curtin: Curtin has done an excellent job with the Philadelphia Union in MLS, developing young talents and creating a cohesive, competitive team. While he lacks international experience, his success in developing homegrown talent could be an asset for the USMNT.
Each of these coaches brings something different to the table, and all three could potentially lead the USMNT to success. If forced to pick one, Jesse Marsch might have the edge, given his European experience and familiarity with a playing style that could suit the USMNT's young and athletic players. However, the final decision should take into account the specific goals, culture, and philosophy that the US Soccer Federation and the team want to establish moving forward.
Jake: What about the recruitment of dual nationals? Folarin Balogun seems important as we are in need of a striker, but can you provide other dual nationals the USMNT should pursue?
ChatGPT: Recruiting dual nationals is an essential aspect of strengthening the USMNT, as it allows the team to tap into a larger pool of talent. Here are a few dual nationals who could be targeted by the USMNT, in addition to Folarin Balogun:
Efraín Álvarez (Mexico/USA): A talented attacking midfielder currently playing for LA Galaxy, Álvarez has represented both Mexico and the United States at youth levels. Convincing him to commit to the USMNT could add creativity and depth to the midfield.
Julian Araujo (Mexico/USA): A versatile right back or right winger who plays for LA Galaxy, Araujo has represented the United States at the youth level but is still eligible to represent Mexico as well. Securing his commitment would provide valuable depth in the full-back positions.
Malik Tillman (Germany/USA): A central midfielder who plays for Bayern Munich II, Tillman has represented both Germany and the United States at the youth level. His potential and experience with a top European club make him an attractive prospect for the USMNT.
Kik Pierie (Netherlands/USA): A center-back who plays for Ajax, Pierie is eligible to represent both the Netherlands and the United States. His experience with a top European club and potential to develop further make him a valuable prospect for the USMNT.
Ricardo Pepi (Mexico/USA): A promising young striker currently playing for FC Dallas, Pepi has already committed to the USMNT but is worth mentioning due to his importance as a dual national. His goal-scoring prowess could significantly bolster the team's attack.
Florian Wirtz (Germany/USA): Wirtz is an attacking midfielder currently playing for Bayer Leverkusen. Though he has represented Germany at various youth levels, he is also eligible for the United States through his American father. Convincing him to switch allegiances would be a difficult task but could add a top talent to the USMNT.
It is crucial to maintain open lines of communication with these dual nationals, showcase the USMNT's vision and project, and highlight the potential benefits of representing the United States. While not all of these players may ultimately choose to commit to the USMNT, actively pursuing such talents could help strengthen the team's depth and quality.
Jake: Say the USMNT hired Joachim Low or Luis Enrique, how would you build the identity of the team? What formation would they play with?
ChatGPT: If the USMNT were to hire Joachim Löw or Luis Enrique, the team's identity would likely be built around a possession-based style of play, quick passing, high pressing, and solid defensive organization. Here's a potential approach for each coach:
Joachim Löw: Löw has primarily used a 4-2-3-1 formation during his time with the German national team, though he has also experimented with 3-4-3 and 4-3-3 formations. Based on his preferred 4-2-3-1 system, the USMNT could line up as follows:
GK: Zack Steffen RB: Sergiño Dest CB: John Brooks CB: Chris Richards LB: Antonee Robinson CDM: Tyler Adams CDM: Weston McKennie RW: Gio Reyna CAM: Christian Pulisic LW: Tim Weah ST: Ricardo Pepi
In this setup, the fullbacks would provide attacking width while the center backs maintain a solid defensive line. The midfield duo of Adams and McKennie would offer defensive stability and ball-winning capabilities, while Pulisic, Reyna, and Weah would provide creativity and goal-scoring threats from the attacking midfield positions. Pepi would lead the line as the target forward.
Luis Enrique: Enrique has mostly used a 4-3-3 formation during his time at Barcelona and with the Spanish national team. This formation would suit the USMNT's talented midfielders and wingers. A potential lineup could be:
GK: Zack Steffen RB: Sergiño Dest CB: John Brooks CB: Chris Richards LB: Antonee Robinson CDM: Tyler Adams CM: Weston McKennie CM: Yunus Musah RW: Gio Reyna ST: Ricardo Pepi LW: Christian Pulisic
In a 4-3-3 formation, Adams would operate as a defensive midfielder, while McKennie and Musah would provide energy and dynamism in the central midfield. Dest and Robinson would still contribute in attack, but their focus would be slightly more defensive than in Löw's system. Pulisic and Reyna would provide width and cutting-edge in the final third, while Pepi would serve as the main goal-scoring threat.
Both Löw and Enrique would prioritize developing a strong team chemistry, a solid defense, and creating a versatile attacking unit that can break down opponents with quick passing and intelligent off-the-ball movement. Ultimately, the chosen formation and approach would depend on the coach's preferences and how they believe the available talent can best be utilized.
Jake: Would they provide specific instructions to the players in certain positions?
ChatGPT: Yes, both Joachim Löw and Luis Enrique would provide specific instructions to players in different positions to ensure the team functions cohesively and effectively. While the exact instructions would depend on the coach's tactical approach and the opposition, here are some general instructions that could be given to players in different positions:
Goalkeeper (GK):
Build play from the back by distributing the ball accurately to defenders and midfielders.
Organize the defense during set-pieces and communicate with defenders to maintain a high line when pressing.
Be proactive in rushing off the line to sweep up any through balls behind the defensive line.
Fullbacks (RB, LB):
Support the attack by providing width and overlapping runs when the wingers cut inside.
Maintain a strong defensive position when the team is out of possession, tracking back quickly to prevent counterattacks.
Build partnerships with the wingers and midfielders to create overloads and passing triangles in the attacking third.
Center-backs (CB):
Maintain defensive solidity by staying compact and keeping a close eye on opposition forwards.
Build play from the back by passing accurately and calmly under pressure.
Organize the defensive line and communicate with the goalkeeper and midfielders to maintain a cohesive unit.
Central/Defensive Midfielders (CDM, CM):
Break up opposition attacks by making timely tackles and interceptions.
Provide a passing outlet for defenders when building play from the back.
Support the attack by making late runs into the box and linking up with attacking midfielders and forwards.
Attacking Midfielders/Wingers (CAM, RW, LW):
Maintain width when needed but also cut inside to create goal-scoring opportunities.
Combine with the fullbacks, central midfielders, and forwards to create overloads and passing triangles in the final third.
Track back to help the fullbacks defensively when the team is out of possession.
Striker (ST):
Lead the line by holding up the ball, bringing attacking midfielders into play, and creating space for teammates with intelligent off-the-ball movement.
Finish chances in the box and be a consistent goal-scoring threat.
Press opposition defenders when they are in possession to force turnovers and win the ball back high up the pitch.
These instructions would be tailored to the specific strengths and weaknesses of the players in each position and would be adjusted based on the opposition and game situation. The coach would also use in-game adjustments and substitutions to adapt to the evolving dynamics of the match.
Jake: You mentioned Low would use a 4231 with the lineup well suited for the formation and style. How would you approach the next three years prior to the 2026 World Cup to prepare the team?
ChatGPT: To prepare the USMNT for the 2026 World Cup under Joachim Löw's 4-2-3-1 system, the following multi-year plan could be implemented:
Integration and adaptation (Year 1):
Introduce Löw's tactical philosophy and playing style to the players through training camps, workshops, and friendly matches.
Experiment with different lineups and formations to identify the best combinations of players for each position.
Establish clear roles and responsibilities for the coaching staff, players, and support staff.
Player development and recruitment (Years 1-3):
Focus on developing the current pool of talent by providing them with opportunities to gain experience, improve their skills, and adapt to the new tactical system.
Recruit promising dual nationals and youth prospects to bolster the squad's depth and quality.
Establish strong partnerships with clubs to ensure that American players receive adequate playing time and opportunities to develop.
Competitive experience (Years 1-3):
Participate in international friendly matches against a variety of opponents to test the team's progress and identify areas for improvement.
Compete in regional tournaments like the Gold Cup and potentially the Copa America to gain experience against top teams from North, Central, and South America.
Use the 2022 World Cup and the subsequent qualifiers as a learning experience and an opportunity to test the team against top international competition.
Sports science, fitness, and mental preparation (Years 1-3):
Implement a comprehensive sports science and physical conditioning program to optimize player performance and minimize injuries.
Work with sports psychologists and mental conditioning coaches to build a strong winning mentality and enhance player focus and resilience under pressure.
Tactical fine-tuning and squad selection (Year 3):
Analyze player performance data and match footage to identify strengths, weaknesses, and areas for improvement.
Fine-tune tactics and make any necessary adjustments based on the evolving dynamics of international soccer and the team's performance in competitive matches.
Finalize the 23-player roster for the 2026 World Cup, taking into consideration form, fitness, and tactical balance.
Pre-World Cup preparations (Year 3):
Organize a pre-World Cup training camp to finalize tactical plans, build team chemistry, and address any lingering fitness or injury concerns.
Schedule high-profile friendly matches against top international opponents to test the team's readiness and boost confidence.
By following this plan, the USMNT can be well-prepared for the 2026 World Cup under Joachim Löw's guidance. This approach requires dedication, investment, and a long-term vision to develop a cohesive and competitive team capable of challenging for the World Cup title on home soi
Jake: Ok so we have our plan, we have our coach, our formation and our players. What does the 2026 World Cup on home soil look like for the USMNT to win?
ChatGPT: For the USMNT to win the 2026 World Cup on home soil, several factors need to align, and the team must perform consistently throughout the tournament. Here's a hypothetical scenario that could lead to victory:
Group stage:
The USMNT is drawn into a balanced group, allowing them to build momentum and gain confidence with positive results.
The team finishes at the top of their group, showcasing their tactical adaptability and strong team chemistry.
Round of 16:
The USMNT faces a tough but beatable opponent, requiring them to demonstrate resilience and mental strength.
The team wins a closely contested match, highlighting their ability to perform under pressure and in high-stakes situations.
Quarterfinals:
The USMNT faces a top international team, testing their tactical acumen and overall quality.
The team pulls off a surprise victory, thanks to a combination of disciplined defending, clinical finishing, and inspired individual performances.
Semifinals:
The USMNT faces another strong opponent, with the winner advancing to the World Cup Final.
The team wins a hard-fought match, showcasing their endurance, tactical flexibility, and strong team spirit.
World Cup Final:
The USMNT faces a highly-rated opponent in the final, with the entire world watching.
The team rises to the occasion, executing their game plan to perfection and displaying a combination of technical skill, tactical discipline, and mental fortitude.
The USMNT wins the 2026 World Cup, making history and inspiring a new generation of soccer fans across the United States.
For this dream scenario to become a reality, the USMNT needs to consistently perform at their best, with key players stepping up when it matters most. The team must stay focused, believe in their abilities, and have a little bit of luck along the way. If all these factors align, the USMNT could have a memorable and historic World Cup campaign in 202
Jake: In that scenario, who does the USMNT face in the final? What's the scoreline? and what are the starting XIs?
ChatGPT: While it's impossible to accurately predict the specific opponents, scoreline, or starting XIs for a match that will take place in 2026, we can create a hypothetical scenario for the final. Let's assume the USMNT faces a traditional football powerhouse like France in the 2026 World Cup Final.
Hypothetical scoreline: USMNT 2 - 1 France
USMNT starting XI (4-2-3-1): GK: Zack Steffen RB: Sergiño Dest CB: John Brooks CB: Chris Richards LB: Antonee Robinson CDM: Tyler Adams CDM: Weston McKennie RW: Gio Reyna CAM: Christian Pulisic LW: Tim Weah ST: Ricardo Pepi
France starting XI (4-3-3): GK: Alban Lafont RB: Benjamin Pavard CB: Jules Koundé CB: Raphaël Varane LB: Theo Hernandez CM: Eduardo Camavinga CDM: N'Golo Kanté CM: Paul Pogba RW: Kylian Mbappé ST: Karim Benzema (or a younger forward) LW: Ousmane Dembélé
In this hypothetical final, the USMNT would need to execute their game plan perfectly, relying on solid defending, effective pressing, and quick counterattacks. Goals could come from a combination of set-pieces, clinical finishing from the team's attacking talents, and capitalizing on any defensive errors by France.
Please note that these starting lineups and the scoreline are purely speculative, and many factors could change between now and 2026. This scenario serves as an illustration of what a potential World Cup Final could look like for the USMN
Jake: Who are the goalscorers?
ChatGPT: In this hypothetical scenario where the USMNT wins the 2026 World Cup Final against France with a 2-1 scoreline, let's imagine the following goal scorers:
USMNT's first goal: Christian Pulisic Pulisic makes a darting run into the box and receives a well-timed through ball from Weston McKennie, finishing with composure past the French goalkeeper.
France's goal: Kylian Mbappé Mbappé equalizes for France with a powerful shot from outside the box, showcasing his incredible speed and technical ability.
USMNT's winning goal: Ricardo Pepi In the final minutes of the match, Gio Reyna whips in a dangerous cross from the right wing, and Pepi rises highest to head home the winning goal, securing a historic victory for the USMNT.
Again, it's important to emphasize that these goal-scoring scenarios are purely speculative and serve to illustrate a potential outcome for the USMNT in the 2026 World Cup Final.
Jake: Is there a young player that not many people would consider for the current roster but we should look to integrate into the team before 2026?
ChatGPT: One young player to consider integrating into the USMNT before the 2026 World Cup is Caden Clark. Born in 2003, Clark is an attacking midfielder who has shown great potential in Major League Soccer playing for the New York Red Bulls.
In October 2021, it was announced that Clark would join RB Leipzig in the Bundesliga after turning 18 in May 2022. This move should provide him with the opportunity to develop further in a highly competitive environment, as RB Leipzig is known for nurturing and promoting young talents.
Clark has an eye for goal and the ability to create scoring opportunities for his teammates, making him an exciting prospect for the USMNT. If he continues to develop and impress in Europe, he could become a valuable addition to the national team setup ahead of the 2026 World Cup. However, it's essential to manage expectations and allow him to develop at his own pace without putting too much pressure on him at a young age.
So what do you think? Should we hire ChatGPT as USMNT General Manager?
A lot of it makes sense. I do question how much of an effect a national team/coach can have in terms of fitness and sports science. I assume we are doing what we can during the <10% of time that we have players in camp, but that's primarily game-to-game maintenance. We can't realistically decide that we're going to somehow make Chris Richards fit and durable.