Berhalter regrets Palace exit
The American has had an impressive year on the international stage after catapulting himself into the U.S. World Cup squad with a number of superb performances in pre-tournament friendlies.
However, the departure of manager Steve Bruce to Birmingham City saw Berhalter's career with the South London club heading on a downward spiral, as he fell out-of-favour with new boss Trevor Francis.
Following a meeting with Francis to discuss his Selhurst Park future, the 29-year-old handed in a written transfer request after being told he was surplus to requirements at Palace.
Berhalter stated that he took no pleasure in requesting a transfer and spoke warmly of his spell with The Eagles.
"It was frustrating. It was disappointing. But I also learned a lot and met some good people. Crystal Palace is a good club," said Berhalter.
"There were a lot of different factors that added up to me not being able to make the impact that I would have liked.
"It's disappointing, because you never want to walk away from a club like that.
"My days here were clearly numbered and that was clear from the manager, so I had to do something."
His move to Germany comes after a difficult time in English football where he failed to impress with trials at Everton, Norwich City, Huddersfield Town and Bolton Wanderers before joining Palace two seasons ago.
Berhalter is now focused on doing well for his new club in Die Bundesliga and he may make his debut in the away clash against newly-promoted Hannover 96 on September 11.
Berhalter added: "Obviously I had people looking because of my situation here.
"I got a call from my agent saying that Cottbus were very interested and they wanted me to come over and look at the city and meet with the team.
"I thought it would be a great opportunity.
"It only took two days to do the deal. It was very easy.
"They were really straightforward and open with me. I talked to the coach and management, and they made me an offer.
"We came back two hours later and agreed terms. It was quick and simple. They acted very professionally, and I had a good feeling about that."
