Luchi Gonzalez named USMNT assistant coach after FC Dallas departure

Former FC Dallas manager Luchi Gonzalez has joined the U.S. men’s national team as assistant coach.

Gonzalez replaces Nico Estevez who moved in the opposite directions last week, becoming FC Dallas head coach.

He is set to join the USMNT’s December training camp in Carson, California as soon as the American side begins preparations for the December 18 friendly against Bosnia and Herzegovina. 

“We are pleased to add a coach of Luchi’s quality to the staff,” USMNT head coach Gregg Berhalter said in a statement.

“He has significant experience with this generation of players, and combined with his background in the game both in the US and abroad he will be a welcome addition to the team.”

Gonzalez knows the squad well, having coached 11 players who have been capped by the US men’s national team: Kellyn Acosta, Reggie Cannon, Jesús Ferreira, Weston McKennie, Shaq Moore, Ricardo Pepi, Paxton Pomykal, Bryan Reynolds, Chris Richards and Brandon Servania.

“I knew right away when this conversation started that this is what I want to do, and I’m very proud to have the opportunity,” Gonzalez said.

“I am a product of the American dream, and it’s the highest honor to represent the crest. I feel very aligned with Gregg and how he sees the game, and I look forward to working with the top American players and helping the team achieve our goals.”

The new assistant coach spent two seasons as head of FC Dallas, leading the side to MLS playoff appearances in 2019 and 2020. He departed the club in mid-september. 

Gonzalez also served as FC Dallas Academy Director and head coach of their Under 16 Academy team. In 2016, he led them to a second consecutive US Soccer Development Academy national title.

The newest assistant coach will have a chaotic start to his USMNT journey as the American side strives to qualify for the 2022 World Cup. The team stands in second place with 15 points in eight matches after a successful November window saw them trump North American rivals Mexico. 

The USMNT still has a long way to go with games in January, February and March.