If a coaching staff can win a World Cup with resumes, US Soccer’s chances at the 2014 trophy in Brazil just got a whole lot better.
Jurgen Klinsmann has announced that two big names -- one very familiar to most US fans, the other perhaps not -- will join his coaching staff through the 2014 tournament.
Berti Vogts and Tab Ramos are on board now, and let’s start with the name some of you may not be incredibly familiar with: Vogts. He won a World Cup and European Championship as a player West Germany, and also lead Germany to the 1996 Euro title as manager.
Vogts is currently also the manager of Azerbaijan, a role he’s had since 2008 and will keep, after stints as boss of Nigeria, Scotland and Kuwait.“We are absolutely thrilled to have Berti join us as an advisor,” said Klinsmann. “He brings a wealth of knowledge and experience, both as a player and a coach, and he knows what it takes to succeed at the highest level. He was my coach for Germany in the 1990s and we have a great relationship. Through his time as the head coach of Scotland, Nigeria and Azerbaijan, he is obviously very familiar with our opponents in the group stage of the World Cup, and for us this is a huge bonus.”
In his role as Special Advisor, Vogts will aid in the development of training plans, help prepare scouting reports, and travel to observe matches of the USA’s opponents in the lead-up to the tournament and in Brazil.
Meanwhile, Tab Ramos has been promoted from his role as U-20 men’s coach, having led the unit to the 2013 World Cup, while former Chivas USA boss Martin Vasquez has been transitioned to “other responsibilities within US Soccer.” Ramos will be a member of the coaching staff, though a specific role was not specified.
Ramos played in the 1990, 1994 and 1998 World Cup for the United States, retiring in 2000 after 81 caps and eight goals for the Yanks. He’s also the U.S. Youth Technical Director.