Steve Cherundolo already has his next few years set out following his retirement from professional soccer.
The 35-year old American defender ended a 15-year career with German club Hannover 96 last month but is immediately planning to become a coach.
During his career, Cherundolo appeared more than 400 times at club level as well as representing the USA on 87 occasions so is well-versed to step over to the other side of the fence by imparting his extensive knowledge on up and coming players.
"It's something that opened my eyes to a completely different way of looking at the game," Cherundolo told SI.com after completing his coaching license.
"The first two or three years are mapped out, and that's basically just concentrating on learning a new trade, which is coaching, and starting from the bottom up.
"When I have that accomplished, you have to make a decision whether or not to go the pro route, or you stay in the club in the youth development program."
As for when and where he will begin his coaching career, Cherundolo was unsure, but he does know that he would love to one day get involved back in his homeland.
"[Deciding where he will coach] is something that I think is just impossible for me to say right now. I'll make that decision when that comes," Cherundolo added.
"Coaching at some level in the United States, whether it's in youth soccer or at a higher level - professional or in the national team programs - interests me very much. It's something that I'd love to do."
