MATT KREMKAU - EMPIRE OF SOCCER

by DAVE MARTINEZ

Is the axe ready to drop on Jurgen Klinsmann?

EoS has learned that both Klinsmann and U.S. U-23 coach Andi Herzog are set to meet with Sunil Gulati and representatives of U.S. Soccer today in conversations that could shape the future of the U.S. Men’s program.

Klinsmann flamed out in spectacular fashion in the team’s first two Hexagonal encounters of the World Cup cycle, dropping results against Mexico (2-1) and Costa Rica (4-0) over the course of a week. As he is wont to do, the German boss tinkered with his lineup, introducing a three-man backline in a critical encounter against Mexico — a decision that led to disastrous results. The following match against Costa Rica featured one of the most listless U.S. performances of Klinsmann’s tenure — a sign that, perhaps, his players have given up on their coach.

The disappointing results have caused an avalanche of blow-back for the U.S. program, with several news outlets calling for Klinsmann’s head after the Costa Rica encounter.

As a result, Klinsmann and Herzog have been summoned to meet with U.S. officials on Thursday to discuss said results — and perhaps the duo’s future at the helm of U.S. soccer.

As has been reported several times over the past few days, Bruce Arena is favored to take on the MNT head coaching job if Klinsmann is indeed removed. That announcement could come as early as Friday. If that does come to pass, Arena will likely take the job on an interim basis with the option for a longer stay — depending on results.