Soccer-‘I’m not going anywhere’ – Herdman committed to Canada

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(Reuters) – John Herdman, who coached Canada’s men’s team to its first World Cup appearance in 36 years, said on Wednesday he had received other offers but had no intention to leave his post.

The 47-year-old Englishman, who previously said he plans to remain Canada coach until 2026, reiterated his loyalty to the program following recent reports that he had agreed to take over the team New Zealand National.

“Success at this level will always invite opportunity. I have had several offers over the past few months, all of which I have turned down, including an offer from New Zealand Football,” Herdman said in a statement released by Canada Soccer. .

“To our Canadian players and fans, I would like to reiterate my commitment to Canada Soccer and the growth of this program.

Herdman led Canada to the 2022 World Cup in Qatar, where the national team made its first appearance at the showpiece global tournament since 1986.

Canada exited after three group stage defeats, but scored twice and played with a swagger and self-confidence that showed a sense of belonging.

With expectations higher than ever for the 2026 World Cup, which Canada will co-host with the United States and Mexico, Herdman has made it clear he wants to be there for the trip.

“At the World Cup in Qatar, our men showed the world that they belong at this level,” Herdman said. “I’m not going anywhere. We still have work to do, and the goal is to take this team to the next level in 2026.”

After coaching with the New Zealanders, Herdman took charge of the Canadian women’s team in 2011 and guided them to third-place finishes at the 2012 and 2016 Olympics.

In 2018, Canada Soccer took the bold step of handing the task of rebuilding the men’s team to Herdman, who led Canada back to the World Cup for only the second time after finishing top of CONCACAF qualifying ahead of the regional powers of the United States and Mexico.

“There is no doubting the passion and commitment that John and his coaching staff have put into our Men’s National Team program, taking our away men to our first World Cup in 36 years,” Canada Soccer general secretary Earl Cochrane said in a statement.

“Everyone in our organization is dedicated to John and his coaching staff and he is the right person to take our country to new heights.”

(Reporting by Frank Pingue in Toronto, editing by Ed Osmond)