Jim Curtin admits he'd 'love' to coach the USMNT
By Chris Smith
Philadelphia Union boss Jim Curtin has admitted he'd 'love' to take up an assistant coach role with the United States Men's National Team.
Curtin has emerged as one of the strongest American head coaches with his work in Philadelphia over the last few years, establishing the Union among Major League Soccer's elite with a Supporters' Shield title in 2020 and a run to MLS Cup just last season.
The USMNT are currently on the lookout for a new permanent head coach, with Anthony Hudson only serving in an interim role following the expiry of Gregg Berhalter's contract following the 2022 World Cup.
The next appointment is a vital one with the Stars and Stripes now preparing to host the World Cup in 2026. A number of options have been rumored, including a possible team-up between Curtin and fellow American Jesse Marsch, who was recently sacked by Leeds United.
"Of course I'd love to coach the national team if that's what you're asking," Curtin told 'The Crack' podcast.
"But I said this before and I mean what I say when I say it: Whoever they choose, if they choose Jose Mourinho, if they choose [Carlo] Ancelotti, if they choose Jesse Marsch, I would also be their assistant. You know what I mean? Like, that's how important I think this [upcoming] World Cup is."
Of course, nobody should be jumping to any conclusions. Curtin is a highly popular figure at the Philadelphia Union and has found a connection with the club and its supporters that is all too rare in soccer.
Right now, his full focus is going one better than 2022 by lifting MLS Cup with the Union.
"I do eventually want to test myself against the best in the world at some point. Do I think I'm ready for that right now? I don't," Curtin added. "I don't think I'm ready. So, I still have work to do here in Philly. I really like this project here. We're close to MLS Cup, but I want to win an MLS Cup here in Philly."