Nashville SC have confirmed the appointment of Brian Joseph Callaghan as their next head coach.
The Major League Soccer side broke the news via a statement shared on Wednesday, July 3, 2024.
Callaghan will officially join the Tennessee-based side on July 22, 2024, ahead of their Leagues Cup encounter against Mazatlán F.C. on July 31, 2024.
Brian Callaghan becomes the second assistant to leave the Men’s National Team of the United States after they were dumped out from the 2024 Copa América.
Fabian Otte has also made a move to Liverpool, where he will head the English giants’ Goalkeeping coaching setup.
Callaghan spent the last five years as an assistant gaffer under United States boss Gregg Berhalter.
The 43-year-old also served as the team’s interim handler before Berhalter was rehired by the United States Soccer Federation in June 2023.
During his spell on the hot seat, he guided the United States Men’s National Team to the 2023 Concacaf Nations League title.
Additionally, he also subsequently led a largely reserve team to the semifinals of the 2023 Gold Cup.
Brian Callaghan took charge of 7 matches, winning 5, drawing 1, and losing just 1 – their gold Cup 5-6 semi-final loss to Panama on penalties.
Callaghan returned to his second fiddle role after Greg Berhalter was rehired and he also did an impressive job helping the sheriff.
Brian Callaghan Statement After Being Appointed As Nashville SC Head Coach
Speaking after being named manager of Nashville SC, Brian Joseph Callaghan said:
“Taking the head coach position at Nashville SC is an incredible opportunity and an exciting next step in my career.”
Callaghan also appreciated his erstwhile boss, Berhalter, for his “mentorship and support” throughout his time with the national team of the US.
Brian Callaghan added: “I want to extend my heartfelt thanks to Gregg Berhalter for his mentorship and support throughout my time with the U.S. Men’s National Team.
“The experience I’ve gained here has been invaluable, and I’m deeply appreciative of the relationships and memories made along the way.”
He also thanked the United States Soccer Federation for the support and camaraderie offered to him.
The 43-year-old said: “As we approach the 2026 World Cup, I’ll be cheering on the team every step of the way.
“Thank you to everyone at U.S. Soccer for the support and camaraderie — it has truly been an honor.”
Nashville SC general manager Mike Jacobs also spoke highly on the arrival of Callaghan, expressing that he “is the right person to drive their ambition for success.”
Jacobs said: “B.J. is ready for this opportunity to continue to build and develop a winning culture and is the right person to drive our club’s ambition for success.”
Brian Callaghan Coaching History
Brian Callaghan has in the past worked for MLS side Philadelphia Union, starting as an academy coach in 2012 before joining manager Jim Curtin’s staff in 2014.
Callaghan was with the Zolos until joining the United States Men’s National Team staff in 2019.
Brian Callaghan started to learn the robes of coaching as an assistant with several sides, including; Ursinus College, Saint Joseph’s University, and Villanova University.
Moreover, Callaghan has also proved his mettle as a youth coach in the Philadelphia area, tutoring teams like; FC Delco, Montgomery Soccer Club, and EPYSA/Region I ODP programs.
Callaghan Date Of Birth, License, Certifications And Coaching Information
Brian Callaghan was born on July 1, 1981, in Ventnor City, New Jersey and he has a UEFA Pro Licence.
According to Transfermkt, his preferred formation is 4-3-3. He graduated from Ursinus College in 2003 with a Bachelor of Arts degree in economics and business administration.
Nashville SC
Meanwhile, Nashville SC occupy the 7th spot in the Eastern Conference, with 26 points from 21 matches.
They are in a favorable position to secure qualification for the playoffs, but their chances of making it through continue to hang in the balance, as they will need to up the ante in the coming games.
Nashville SC are on a two-game losing streak, as they lost 1-2 to Inter Miami on June 30, 2024, before losing 2-0 to Colombus Crew on July 3, 2024.
It will be fascinating to see how they fare in the coming matches, as they continue to chase a playoff spot which is not guaranteed yet.
