Former US men's national team star Brian McBride has been appointed general manager of the USMNT, the federation announced Friday. He starts immediately and will report to U.S. Soccer sporting director Earnie Stewart.
McBride, a veteran of three World Cups with the USMNT, earned 95 caps and scored 30 goals during his playing career with the national team. He will join the team at their January camp in Florida.
“We are thrilled to have Brian McBride assume the role as General Manager of the US men's national team,” Stewart said in a statement. “Through his impressive career as a three-time World Cup veteran and at clubs in England, Germany and the United States, he has earned the respect of his peers around the world. The hard-earned reputation will allow him to forge important relationships both internationally and here at home, and his understanding of the game and what it takes to succeed at the highest levels will be invaluable to our player pool and our staff.”
McBride's primary responsibilities will be to oversee the development and management of the player pool for US national team manager Gregg Berhalter's squad, as well as managing relationships with clubs. Since his playing career ended, he has worked as a television analyst for FOX and then ESPN. He holds a USSF 'B' License.
He also founded McBride’s Attacking Soccer Academy and was the Co-Founder & Chief Strategic Officer for TiPEVO in charge of strategic offerings and outreach to the youth sports community.
“I am incredibly honored to once again represent the National Team and the U.S. Soccer Federation,” McBride said in a statement. “It’s critically important for everyone to understand the privilege and pride that goes with wearing the jersey, and I’m excited about the opportunity to build relationships with players and clubs that align with the philosophy and values of U.S. Soccer. In this position, part of my job is to work alongside Gregg and his staff in fostering a growth mentality for the USMNT and to help Earnie ensure that this mindset is present in all of our Youth National Teams."
