Bruce Arena, one of the most successful coaches in American soccer history, is on the verge of a sensational return to Major League Soccer. According to sources close to the situation, the former United States men’s national team boss is in advanced discussions with the San Jose Earthquakes to become their next head coach.
A New Chapter for Arena and the Quakes
For Arena, taking the reins in San Jose would mark the latest chapter in a storied career that has spanned over four decades. The 73-year-old has won a record 12 trophies in MLS, including five MLS Cups and three Supporters’ Shields. He’s also the winningest coach in MLS history with 262 regular season victories.
But it’s not just Arena’s domestic achievements that stand out. He’s enjoyed significant success at the international level as well, leading the USMNT to the quarterfinals of the 2002 World Cup – their best finish in the modern era – and winning three Gold Cups across two stints in charge.
For the Earthquakes, securing Arena’s services would be a major coup. The club is in desperate need of a rebuild after finishing dead last in MLS in 2024, recording just 21 points from 34 games and conceding a league record 78 goals. A coach of Arena’s pedigree and experience could be just what they need to turn things around.
Rebuilding Projects Nothing New for Arena
Of course, this wouldn’t be the first time Arena has been tasked with reviving a struggling MLS franchise. When he took over the LA Galaxy in 2008, they were coming off a dismal season where they finished outside the playoffs. Under Arena’s guidance, they quickly became a powerhouse, winning three MLS Cups and two Supporters’ Shields over the next six years.
Arena engineered a similar turnaround with the New England Revolution starting in 2021. The Revs, who had not had much success since the early days of MLS, won their first trophy in over a decade when they lifted the Supporters’ Shield that season.
Bruce is a proven winner at this level. His record speaks for itself. If the Earthquakes are able to get him, it would be a huge boost for the whole organization.
– An MLS source familiar with the negotiations
Arena’s Role Still to Be Determined
One key detail that remains unclear is exactly what role Arena would have with the Earthquakes. In his previous MLS stops, he has often held dual positions as head coach and sporting director or manager.
- With D.C. United, Arena was Head Coach and Director of Soccer
- At the LA Galaxy, he held the titles of Head Coach and General Manager
- In New England, he served as Head Coach and Sporting Director
According to sources, the specifics of Arena’s potential position in San Jose, and how it might impact current General Manager Chris Leitch, are still being worked out as part of the negotiations.
Arena Seeking to Put New England Departure Behind Him
Should he take the Earthquakes job, it would be Arena’s first coaching position since his abrupt departure from the Revolution in September 2023. Arena resigned after being placed on administrative leave following allegations that he made “insensitive and inappropriate remarks.”
Arena later addressed the incident, acknowledging he “made some mistakes” but remaining vague on specifics. MLS ultimately cleared him to work in the league again after meeting with Commissioner Don Garber in December 2023.
I have to be reserved in what I can say. But I took responsibility for my actions. It was a tough, hurtful experience.
– Bruce Arena, speaking about his departure from New England in June 2024
Now, with a chance at redemption in San Jose, Arena will be looking to put that chapter behind him and focus on what he does best – building winning soccer teams. For a coach who has achieved so much in his career, the opportunity to turn around one of MLS’s worst teams may be the ultimate challenge.
The Earthquakes and their long-suffering fans will hope Arena is up to the task. After years in the wilderness, they are desperate for a return to the glory days of the early 2000s. With Bruce Arena at the helm, that dream may finally become a reality once again.
