112216_isi_arenabruce_mlsmj102616146 Michael Janosz/isiphotos.com
U.S. Men's National Team

It's Official: Bruce Arena Takes Over as U.S. Coach

In what amounted to the worst-kept secret in U.S. Soccer Federation history, Los Angeles Galaxy boss Bruce Arena will take over the U.S. men's national team, effective December 1. 
BY John Godfrey Posted
November 22, 2016
10:30 AM

YES, WE KNOW: YOU ALREADY KNEW.

So did we. So did everybody else who cares about these sorts of things. But still, the United States Soccer Federation made it official today, so we thought we would follow their lead and post a quick item about it too.

U.S. Soccer President Sunil Gulati named current Los Angeles Galaxy coach Bruce Arena as the new head coach of the U.S. men’s national team, replacing Jurgen Klinsmann, who was fired on Monday. Arena previously held the national team job from 1998 to 2006, leading the Americans to a quarterfinal appearance in 2002—the federation's best showing in the modern era.  

Arena will take over on Dec. 1, and ASN will provide exhaustive coverage on this changing of the guard, what it means in the short term, and what it means over the long haul.

“When we considered the possible candidates to take over the men’s national team at this time, Bruce was at the top of the list,” Gulati said. “His experience at the international level, understanding of the requirements needed to lead a team through World Cup qualifying, and proven ability to build a successful team were all aspects we felt were vital for the next coach. We all know Bruce will be fully committed to preparing the players for the next eight qualifying games and earning a berth to an eighth-straight FIFA World Cup in Russia.”

“Any time you get the opportunity to coach the National Team it’s an honor,” said Arena. “I’m looking forward to working with a strong group of players that understand the challenge in front of them after the first two games of the Hex. Working as a team, I’m confident that we’ll take the right steps forward to qualify for the 2018 World Cup in Russia.”

So there you have it. Thoughts? Thrilled? Wish it was somebody else? Share your take below. 

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