"If a player scores fewer than 4 points by reference to the Part A objective criteria
and a Cumulative Total Score of fewer than 5 points under the Part A and Part B
objective criteria, the Exceptions Panel is guided to refuse a GBE unless it is satisfied, following its subjective review, that the player is internationally established at the highest level and that his employment will make a significant contribution to the development of football at the highest level in England."
I don't see him getting to either 4 or 5. Maybe Berhalter testifies that Long would have played in the group stage finale except for (whatever reason), and they allow him in on the narrowest of exceptions.
Though I'd never doubt the stunning incompetence of English teams with regard to work permits. They fuck up these things all the time.
He's definitely not automatically getting a work permit like you pointed out. But the language in "unless it is satisfied, following its subjective review [...]" means that the panel can still make an exception, and I don't think it would be a huge surprise if he does get a permit.
Again, assuming the interest is actually real, an offer gets accepted, etc.