You see, I’m talking of course, about my immediate dismissal of Bruce Arena. After Ruud Gullit ‘resigned’ midway through last season, the Galaxy head honchos turned to Bruce Arena. “The Bruce” is a well-known figure in the soccer community, perhaps best known as the former head coach of the United States National Team from 1998-2006.
Arena was certainly a big name, which the Galaxy seemed to consider a major factor, and definitely carried an impressive resume. He had been extremely successful at the NCAA level, with the University of Virginia in the 80’s and early 90’s. He later took DC United to three consecutive MLS Cup Finals, winning in both ‘96 and ‘97. And of course, there was the national team. After the United States dismal performance in France ‘98, Arena replaced coach Steve Sampson. He turned the team around over the next four years, culminating with an amazing World Cup run in 2002, leading the “Nats” all the way to the quarterfinals.
But did he still have it? After the success of the 2002 World Cup, the US flamed out in the group stage in 2006. Arena was left with egg on his face after some controversial decisions and an overly defensive style. The US Soccer federation chose not to renew his contract, and Arena returned to the MLS, this time with the New York Red Bulls. He found little success in a season and half at the helm of New York. His decision to bring in over-the-hill Claudio Reyna as his ‘designated player’ seemed to cement to many that he had lost his marbles. Once again, Bruce was out of a job.
But not for long. After a chaotic 9 months under the eccentric Ruud Gullit, the Galaxy cleared house. Arena was named coach and general manager, relieving Alexi Lalas of the latter duty.
