Why Thierry Henry makes perfect sense for USMNT head coach

With the 2026 World Cup less than two years away, the USMNT needs to hire a new head coach, and Thierry Henry is the perfect candidate for the job.

The U.S. Men's National Team made headlines for all the wrong reasons when they made an early group stage exit at Copa America 2024, hosted in the United States. Gregg Berhalter, the Stars and Stripes' manager at the time, lost his job in the aftermath of the disappointing campaign. For most fans, the decision was the one silver lining of the failed tournament after years of unimpressive results and tactics from Berhalter.

Now, over two months later, the USMNT still do not have a new head coach. Despite their poor performances this summer, the United States has their most talented squad of the last decade, and with the right person at the helm, the Stars and Stripes could make some waves at the 2026 World Cup.

As the world continues to speculate about the best person for the open position, a clear favorite has emerged—Thierry Henry.

Why Thierry Henry makes perfect sense for USMNT head coach

1. Success with France's U-23 squad

Thierry Henry's work with the France U-23 squad at the 2024 Paris Olympics is the perfect addition to his already impressive resume. The 46-year-old took control of the team ahead of this summer's Olympics, and lead them to the gold medal match.

France might have been the favorites heading into the tournament, but Les Bleus and Henry still had to deliver on the big stage. The Arsenal legend was able to bring out the best in his young players while allowing his veterans to lead, and it all culminated in an unbeaten run to the men's soccer final.

The USMNT needs a coach that will bring out the best in its exciting, young players like Gio Reyna, Yunus Musah, and Folarin Balogun without stifling their talent by forcing them into lifeless roles on the pitch, and Henry is the man to do it.

2. Winning mentality

The USMNT is dying for a coach with a winning mentality. In his last game in charge, Berhalter was caught screaming the score of another match at Copa America 2024 to his side, insinuating that the Stars and Stripes would advance to the knockout stage as long as they held a scoreless draw with Uruguay. About fifteen seconds later, La Celeste scored.

Henry would not tolerate such scared tactics. He would bring pride back to the position, and demand a winning culture from the United States, because for the first time in a long time, they have the players capable of doing so.

3. Brilliant soccer mind

It is no secret Henry is one of the best soccer players to ever lace up a pair of boots. The Frenchman is Arsenal's all-time leading goalscorer, and won just about every trophy for his club and country over his career. Even in his retirement, his passion and knowledge for the game is still on full display as an analyst.

Henry's knowledge and skill both on and off the pitch prompts a level of respect from players that a manager needs to truly lead a team. Going from Berhalter to Henry will elevate the locker room, and give the United States a fresh (and better) outlook on the game.

Some greats have struggled making the transition from player to coach, like Frank Lampard and Gary Neville, but others, including Xabi Alonso and Zinedine Zidane, have thrived in their second act. Henry has all the tools to be the next success story, and he can do so with one of the host nations of the next World Cup.