Berhalter, the Columbus Crew’s athletic director and head coach from 2013-18, who most recently served as the head coach of the US Men’s National Team, will become the 10th full-time head coach in club history. He will oversee all aspects of the Fire’s sporting operations – including the first team, MLS NEXT Pro affiliate Chicago Fire FC II and the academy – while reporting directly to owner and chairman Joe Mansueto.
“After a thorough and thorough search that included a number of exceptional candidates, it became clear that Gregg Berhalter was the right choice to lead our athletics operations,” Mansueto said in a release. “His previous success in MLS, where he thrived in a dual role, and his experience managing the US Men’s National Team for the past six years make him a perfect fit for our vision for the club.”
Berhalter will officially begin his new role at the end of the 2024 MLS regular season. Current head coach Frank Klopas will oversee the club’s final game – Saturday, October 19 (Decision Day) against Nashville SC (6:00 p.m. ET | MLS Season Pass) before transitioning to Chicago Vice President of Soccer.