Bruce Arena returns to MLS as New England Revolution director and coach
The most successful-ever American soccer coach has signed a contract with Robert Kraft's MLS franchise as sports director and head coach.
The most successful coach in the United States is back in the MLS, this time as New England Revolution Sporting Director and head coach, a role in which he will be tasked with taking the 'Revs' back towards league's top spots.
Arena, the winningest coach in the history of the US men's national team and also a five-time MLS Cup champion, will take charge of the franchise with immediate effect. Though the current Revolution interim head coach, Mike Lapper, will remain in place until an exact start date for Arena as the club's eighth coach has been determined.
Revolution Investor/Operator, Robert Kraft, spoke to media about Arena's appointment, saying: "Bruce is one of the most successful coaches in American soccer history, and we feel his commitment to excellence, track record of winning championships in Major League Soccer, as well as his success at the international level, makes him the best person to bring the Revolution back to MLS Cup contention."
Kraft is confident that Arena will raise the level of the team to the standard expected and demanded by the club and its fans.
New England Revolution
The Revs are currently last in the Eastern Conference with 11 points after 13 games (3-8-2), having scored 14 goals and conceded 31. Lapper's first game in charge brought to an end a four-match winless streak by defeating the San Jose Earthquakes 3-1.