U.S. Soccer has appointed Steve Cherundolo as head coach of the U-23 Olympic team ahead of the 2028 Los Angeles Games. The federation confirmed the move on Thursday, tasking the former Los Angeles FC manager with preparing a new generation of players for the home tournament.
Cherundolo’s Coaching Pedigree
Cherundolo arrives with substantial domestic experience. He guided LAFC from 2022 to 2025, securing the MLS Cup and Supporters’ Shield in 2022 before adding the U.S. Open Cup in 2024. His tenure culminated in qualification for the 2025 Club World Cup following a victory over Club América.
The former United States international earned 87 caps during a playing career that included a lengthy spell with Hannover 96 in Germany. He began coaching in Hannover’s academy and later served as an assistant for Germany’s U-15 national side.
Strategic Significance
The appointment carries considerable weight for the federation’s long-term planning. The Olympic side is viewed as essential for filling future openings within the senior national team as the programme transitions toward the next World Cup cycle.
Dan Helfrich, the federation’s chief operating officer, highlighted the importance of youth tournaments in May. “There’s a lot of data that suggests that success in youth World Cups and in Olympic cycles on the men’s side creates accelerated player development and creates the conditions for success in subsequent World Cups,” he said. The federation intends to invest greater resources in the age-grade programme to strengthen future senior squads.
International precedent supports this approach. France‘s squad preparing for the 2026 World Cup includes seven players from their 2024 Olympic team, while Spain have integrated six. Morocco similarly transitioned six Olympians into their World Cup setup.
Squad Composition and Tactical Outlook
Cherundolo’s LAFC sides were characterised by high pressing, organised defending and rapid transitions. He demonstrated tactical flexibility, deploying both 4-3-3 and 3-4-3 formations according to match demands. This adaptability may prove valuable given the evolving nature of the Olympic roster.
The tournament format permits three over-age players within the predominantly under-23 squad. These spots typically accommodate experienced figures in defence, midfield and attack, though final selection will depend on availability and potential scheduling conflicts with the senior team’s fixtures.
Preparation will commence during forthcoming international windows as the United States builds towards hosting the Games in 2028.