Dear Fire Fans,
It’s an honor to step into the role of Director of Football and Head Coach for this Club. Chicago is a world-class city with a true love for soccer, and this Club must return to being seen as a top organization in MLS. As someone who has been involved with the League as a player, coach, and director since the very beginning, I know the passion and loyalty that this fanbase has for its team – and how intimidating it can be to play in Chicago with a packed stadium. Coming into this role, my top priority is to build a team that matches your dedication.
A New Era
As we turn the page to this new chapter, I want to make one thing clear: we are setting our sights on sustained success. We will create an identity on and off the field that you will be proud of and ensure that the Fire are competitive year in and year out.
My vision is simple: Build one of the top clubs in North America. We will focus on building a squad that not only competes at a high level but plays in a way that makes you proud to see them wear our famous red.
Building for Now
Developing talent from Chicago will remain a priority and the bedrock of our Club. We want to continue to develop a pipeline of talent that starts in our academy and leads into our First Team, producing Homegrown Players who will represent this city and its values.
We will be intentional about bringing in talent that is committed to the Club and city and aligns with the values of our community.Finally, the Endeavor Health Performance Center, which is due to be open by January, will be a catalyst with both developing our young players and maximizing the impact of our First Team players. This commitment to excellence will be a major tool in helping us recruit and develop the players we need to move this Club forward.
Your Role
Without you, the fans, there is no Chicago Fire. Nothing can happen without you. Our fans and supporters are the heart and soul of this Club, and your passion is one of our greatest strengths. Whether it’s at the stadium or from afar, your support drives us, and we want to make sure you feel connected to what we’re building. I am committed to working together with you to help realize your vision of what this Club can be.
I invite you to join us as we enter this new era, and I promise we will give you something to believe in. Together, we will make the Chicago Fire a Club that not only competes but defines what it means to be a part of this League. We’ll build a Chicago Fire that this great city can be proud of.
Thank you for your support. I can’t wait to get started.
Vamos Fire!
Gregg Berhalter
Director of Football and Head Coach
