Coach Klinsmann

It’s official. After years of speculation, Jürgen Klinsmann is the new head coach of the U.S. Men’s National Team.

Ever since Klinsmann left his post as manager of Germany after the 2006 World Cup, the former striker has been heavily linked to the U.S. head coach position. After failing to reach an agreement with Klinsmann in 2006 and subsequently in 2010, the U.S. went with American Bob Bradley both times. Bradley was relieved of his coaching duties on Thursday.

Now, Klinsmann and the United States Soccer Federation have finally reached an agreement to make the former German international the 35th coach in the history of the U.S. Men’s National Team.

“We are excited to have Jürgen as the head coach of our Men’s National Team,” said U.S. Soccer President Sunil Gulati. “He is a highly accomplished player and coach with the experience and knowledge to advance the program. Jürgen has had success in many different areas of the game and we look forward to the leadership he will provide on and off the field.”

Klinsmann played in many of the top leagues in Europe throughout his playing career, seeing time in Germany, Italy, France and England. As a manager, Klinsmann led Germany to third place in the 2006 World Cup and also coached Bayern Munich for a year.

He will take over the U.S. immediately and his first match in charge is against regional rival Mexico on Aug. 10 in Philadelphia.

“I am proud and honored to be named the head coach of the U.S. Men’s National Team,” said Klinsmann. “I would like to thank the U.S. Soccer Federation for the opportunity, and I’m excited about the challenge ahead. I am looking forward to bringing the team together for our upcoming match against Mexico and starting on the road toward qualifying for the 2014 FIFA World Cup.”

U.S. Soccer will hold a press conference in New York on Monday, Aug. 1, to formally introduce Klinsmann.

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