Henry Open To US Job, Wants Clear Plan for Success

Thierry Henry has expressed interest in becoming the head coach of the United States men's national soccer team, but only if he is given the necessary tools to turn them into a World Cup contender.

The United States are currently searching for a new coach following the expiration of Gregg Berhalter's contract at the end of last year.

The former Arsenal striker recently finished a second stint as assistant to Roberto Martinez with Belgium after the 2022 World Cup in Qatar. However, the Spaniard has since left the role to take charge of Portugal.

Henry said that he would welcome the opportunity to lead the 2026 World Cup co-hosts, but only if plans are put in place to ensure they have the best chance of success.

"To go back to the U.S. in general, what is the plan? What is the philosophy? What do you want to be?" Henry said in an interview. "When you ask this question, you’re going to find those answers out eventually."

Henry knows the U.S. soccer landscape well, having previously coached the Montreal Impact in Major League Soccer. He believes that he has done his time as an assistant coach and is now looking for a chance to lead a team.

"Do I know the players? Yes, I know the players. Do I know the league? Yes, I know the league," Henry said. "Do I want to be a manager at any level? Yes, of course, that is something I will like to do."

Henry also emphasized that simply hosting the World Cup doesn't guarantee success, pointing out that big teams don't always perform well on home soil, while smaller teams have often exceeded expectations. "I remember South Korea getting to the semi-final [in 2002]," he said. "So, what is going to be the plan? I’m not talking about me here, I’m talking about the national team."