Klopp is #1 for me full stop. Pep, Tuchel, Poch, would be nice. I don't think any of those are realistic though. After that there's a clear gulf in quality.
Managing the shortened window is important. We could potentially only have 12 matches (friendlies and competitive combined) before 2026 WC. You're right though, there aren't many guys out there with national team experience. Of the ones that do, the two names I've heard the most -Hugo Perez and Javier Aguirre- aren't very compelling but I'd take them over Steve Cherundolo.
Perez - former USMNT player, was a scout and manager in our 12U and 15U ranks, most recently was El Salvador manager. Did decently well at first but really fell off towards the end. Highlights - his El Salvador squad tied the USMNT twice and lost once (1-0), almost qualified for 2022 WC.
Aguirre - former Mexican coach, took Mexico to knockout rounds in 2002 (dos a cerooooo) and 2010. Has he been out of the game too long though?
This really feels like a Klopp or bust situation.