Bruce Arena resigns as Revolution's head coach
FOXBORO - Bruce Arena announced his resignation as head coach and sporting director of the New England Revolution on Saturday evening.
Arena was placed on administrative leave on July 30, pending an investigation, for "insensitive and inappropriate remarks" by Major League Soccer. He released the following statement Saturday night:
"After much soul searching, I have decided to resign my position as Head Coach and Sporting Director of the New England Revolution.
"To begin, I would like to thank Robert Kraft and Jonathan Kraft for providing me with this opportunity over 4 years ago. In my time with the Revolution, we have had much success and it truly has been a direct reflection of all the support the organization has provided me. In particular, I also want to thank all the players, coaches and staff at the Revolution as everyone has provided outstanding service and done a terrific job to help elevate the club to where it is today.
"I also want to thank everyone in the soccer community at large for their tremendous support during the past 6 weeks. The investigation has been a hard and difficult process, for me and my family, but hearing from so many who have been part of my career truly has been gratifying and has helped make this decision easier.
"Finally, I know that I have made some mistakes and moving forward, I plan to spend some time reflecting on this situation and taking corrective steps to address what has transpired. And while this has not been an easy decision, I am confident that it is in the best interest of both the New England Revolution organization and my family that we part ways at this time."
Major League Soccer released a statement that its investigation confirmed some of the allegations that Arena made insensitive and inappropriate remarks. Arena would have to petition to the commissioner if he wants to pursue future employment in the league.
Statement from MLS on New England Revolution Sporting Director and Head Coach Bruce Arena. pic.twitter.com/g7SLHMQCKf
— MLS Communications (@MLS_PR) September 10, 2023
The Revs hired Arena in 2019 and the legendary coach immediately made his mark on the franchise. By 2021, New England was the best team in MLS, setting a league record with 73 points during the regular season to capture the franchise's first Supporters' Shield. Arena compiled a 60-31-42 record in MLS action during his time in New England.
Arena became the winningest coach in MLS history last year, and touts a 262-152-131 career record and a record five MLS Cups. He's won four Sigi Schmid MLS Coach of the Year honors (including 2021 with New England) and his clubs have taken home the Supporters' Shield four times.
Arena also owns the most wins of any coach with the U.S. Men's National Team, leading the squad to its best World Cup finish back in 2002. He was inducted into the National Soccer Hall of Fame in 2010.
Richie Williams will continue to serve as interim Head Coach, and Curt Onalfo will continue to serve as interim Sporting Director through the remainder of the 2023 season.