Bruce Arena’s Return to Coaching: A Journey of Redemption
Bruce Arena, a legendary figure in U.S. soccer, is no stranger to the spotlight. With an impressive track record that includes more wins and titles than any other coach in MLS history and a record-breaking tenure with the U.S. men’s national team, Arena has little left to prove. Yet, at 73, he has taken on a new challenge as the manager and sporting director of the San José Earthquakes, a team that has struggled for over a decade. This move, he says, is driven by his love for coaching. While that may be true, it’s not the only reason he’s returned to the bench.
A Career Derailed
Arena’s last coaching stint with the New England Revolution was marked by a controversial suspension. In 2023, he was placed on administrative leave and subsequently resigned after allegations of making "insensitive and inappropriate remarks." Although the specifics of the incident remain private, the suspension left a bitter taste. Arena has since completed a restorative practices program, and MLS commissioner Don Garber cleared him to return to the league. Despite his anger and frustration over the incident, Arena is determined to go out on his own terms, not those dictated by the league.
The San José Earthquakes: A Team in Need of a Turnaround
The San José Earthquakes have been a perpetual underdog, with their last winning season dating back to 2013. The team’s 2022 campaign was particularly dire, setting league records for the most losses (25) and goals allowed (78). Owner John Fisher’s frugal approach, with the team ranking 28th in a 29-team league in payroll, has only exacerbated the issue. Arena’s task is daunting, but he is no stranger to reviving struggling teams. His previous success with the Los Angeles Galaxy, the U.S. national team, and the New England Revolution suggests he has the skills and expertise to turn the Quakes around.
A Trio of Key Acquisitions
To hasten the turnaround, Arena has been active in the transfer market, acquiring several key players. Cristian Arango, a former MLS Cup winner, and Josef Martínez, the league’s scoring champion, are among the new additions. The trades for Dave Romney, Mark-Anthony Kaye, Ian Harkes, and Earl Edwards Jr. have also bolstered the team’s roster. These moves, coupled with increased financial commitment from owner Fisher, signal a shift towards building a more competitive squad.
The Importance of Dave Sarachan
One of Arena’s most significant acquisitions is not a player but an assistant coach: Dave Sarachan. The two have a long history dating back to their time at the University of Virginia in 1984. Sarachan has been a trusted ally, working alongside Arena during his stints with the national team and MLS teams like DC United and the Galaxy. Their partnership has yielded numerous titles and successes, and Sarachan’s return is expected to provide the stability and familiarity that Arena values.
A Building Project with High Stakes
The road to a successful turnaround is uncertain, and Arena is realistic about the timeline. "Making a team more competitive and a playoff team is a turnaround," he says. "Our club isn’t in a position like the L.A. teams or Atlanta or New York City. They have the resources and we’re not at that point yet." Despite the challenges, Arena and his team are making strides in the right direction. The preseason has been a mixed bag, with the Quakes going winless against MLS competition, but Sarachan remains confident. "Bruce is a builder and the track record speaks for itself," he says. "If we can get the right pieces and have the backing of ownership, we can push this in the right direction."
A Legacy of Success and a Future of Possibilities
For Bruce Arena, the opportunity to turn around the San José Earthquakes is about more than just another coaching job. It’s a chance to redeem his legacy and go out on his own terms. While the path to success may be long and challenging, Arena’s history of success and his determination make him the perfect candidate for this task. If he can pull off another dramatic turnaround, it will not only be a testament to his coaching prowess but also a fitting capstone to an illustrious career. For now, Arena is focused on the journey, not the destination. "People say you can retire and travel and see things," he says. "I’ve traveled the whole world. Where am I going to travel to? I’ve been everywhere. I don’t have a horse so I’ve never rode in the sunset. I wouldn’t know how to get on a horse." But one thing is certain: Bruce Arena is still riding high, and the San José Earthquakes are his next ride.
