EAST RUTHERFORD, N.J. – Is Bob Bradley staying on or not?
That's the big question heading into Tuesday's friendly between the US and Brazil, and Bradley is still at the helm of the US National Team for now. But what happens next after nearly four years in charge is still one of the most intriguing storylines surrounding USA camp.
Bradley said there have been conversations with the US Soccer Federation about his future and a possible contract extension, but he refused to go into specifics about the talks.
“From the end of the World Cup, I’ve said the same thing – both sides would assess,” Bradley said Monday. “I’ve had a few discussions.”
While painting the discussions as preliminary and laying the groundwork for future talks, Bradley told the media that the goal was always to get through the Brazil friendly on Tuesday and then continue the conversations with the federation.
Bradley would not dismiss the idea of coaching overseas and left his options open with regards to the recent opening at Aston Villa.
“Always excited about new and different challenges,” Bradley said. “Coaching in Europe is something I’ve said I’d love to do.”
Bradley drew criticism domestically for his tactical decisions during the World Cup despite taking the United States through the opening round without a loss, and winning the group over traditional heavyweight England.
After the World Cup, he was linked strongly to a possible move to English Premier League side Fulham. Bradley on Monday, however, confirmed only a loose interest to the club.
“People spoke to Fulham on my behalf,” Bradley said. "I never spoke to Fulham."
Bradley drew praise and respect from the foreign media for orchestrating the US team’s upset of Spain in last year’s Confederations Cup en route to a second place finish in the tournament. Critics have countered that Bradley was too rigid tactically and did not experiment with enough players.
“I think Bob did a really good job with our group,” US captain Carlos Bocanegra said. “He took us to the next level.”
