Gregg Berhalters USMNT…

Sebastian Berhalter recognizes the unusual nature of his situation. Unlike many of his U.S. men’s national team teammates, he has the unique advantage of turning to someone who has direct experience with the FIFA World Cup – his father, Gregg, who participated in two tournaments and coached at the most recent one.

“It’s pretty wild,” Berhalter remarked about his conversations with his father, who represented the U.S. in the 2002 and 2006 World Cups before leading the team in Qatar 2022.

“It’s amusing at times – there are moments where we just look at one another and think, ‘Can you believe this is happening?'” Sebastian added. “I’m incredibly grateful to have a dad who truly understands the journey.”

They have shared many discussions as Sebastian prepares for this summer’s World Cup, reflecting the steady progression of his professional career. At this point in the last cycle, neither father nor son would have predicted Sebastian’s key role for the U.S. as they face Paraguay on Friday night.

Just four years ago, he was in Qatar on the sidelines supporting his dad, and not long before that, he was contemplating whether to continue his professional career due to a perceived stagnation.

Following a loan to Austin FC, his parent club, the Columbus Crew, traded him to the Vancouver Whitecaps for just $50,000 – the minimum allowed in an MLS deal. During his first season with the Caps, Sebastian made only 18 appearances, starting just three, showing promise but lacking significant impact on the field.

However, as is often the case in sports, an unexpected opportunity arose. In 2023, he enjoyed 35 appearances, 15 of which were starts, and netted his first two MLS goals. By 2024, those numbers rose to 40 appearances and three more goals, reflecting a growing on-field confidence.

His breakout came in 2025, with standout performances driving Vancouver to the Concacaf Champions Cup final and the MLS Cup final, earning him a spot on the All-Star team. Under new head coach Jesper Sørensen, his focus on attacking play saw Berhalter showcase impressive pace and precision.

“He has always been a powerful presence for us,” said Thomas Müller, Berhalter’s teammate in Vancouver. “From the first to the last minute of every match, he gives his all. He can make significant contributions not only through his stamina and strength but also with his playmaking abilities and dangerous set pieces.”

“Overall, [Sebastian] is a crucial player for us both on and off the pitch.”

Compounding matters, Gregg Berhalter’s career took a dramatic turn as his son’s rose. After a disappointing showing at the Copa América, U.S. Soccer released him from his post in 2024. His successor, Mauricio Pochettino, recognized Sebastian’s talent and included him in the roster for the subsequent Gold Cup the following summer.

Sebastian capitalized on the opportunity, delivering impressive performances that helped the U.S. reach the final. He reinforced his position during March friendlies against Belgium and Portugal, positioning himself as a reserve midfielder for the upcoming World Cup. If his father had been coaching, would he have received the same opportunity?

Most likely not, mired in concerns over favoritism and outside scrutiny.

“I think about it constantly,” Gregg Berhalter shared recently. “I never could have envisioned picking him.

“But what I do know,” he continued, “is that everything is aligned as it should be. It’s his moment now.”

The Berhalters aren’t the only father-son pair to compete for the U.S. national team in a World Cup; Gregg Berhalter even selected Gio Reyna for the Qatar team after having played alongside Gio’s father, Claudio.

With Sebastian, it is clear why Pochettino values him: a tireless worker, adept at set pieces, and a reliable deeper-lying midfielder.

“He’s a phenomenal talent,” Pochettino said following Berhalter’s appearance in May’s friendly against Senegal, praising Berhalter’s relentless drive.

“He’s the kind of player who trains hard, day in and day out,” Pochettino mentioned. “There are times when I have to tell him, ‘Go take a break,’ you know?”

This dedication is a source of pride for Berhalter, but he is also committed to making the most of every moment during this World Cup.

Gregg Berhalter recalled their conversation on the first day of the March training camp, long before any of this became a reality. The focus wasn’t on tactics or strategies, but rather on Sebastian’s excitement to reconnect with his teammates.

“He couldn’t wait to see Tim [Ream], Weston [McKennie], and of course, Christian [Pulisic]

Now, just four years after Sebastian was a spectator at the World Cup, it is his father’s turn to watch his son fulfill his dream on such a grand stage.