Bruce Arena has been appointed Head Coach of U.S Men’s National Team.
Returning to the post where he set a record for most wins of any coach in USMNT history, the New Yorker succeeds Jurgen Klinsmann.
The former LA Galaxy man will be unveiled in front of the media with US Soccer President Sunil Gulati on Tuesday at 2pm ET.
Arena famously led the nation to a best finish in more than 80 years of World Cup history with a quarterfinal placing in Japan and South Korea in 2002.
“Any time you get the opportunity to coach the National Team it’s an honor,” said Arena. “I’m looking forward to working with a strong group of players that understand the challenge in front of them after the first two games of the Hex. Working as a team, I’m confident that we’ll take the right steps forward to qualify for the 2018 World Cup in Russia.”
Gulati added: “When we considered the possible candidates to take over the Men’s National Team at this time, Bruce was at the top of the list.”
“His experience at the international level, understanding of the requirements needed to lead a team through World Cup qualifying, and proven ability to build a successful team were all aspects we felt were vital for the next coach.
“We all know Bruce will be fully committed to preparing the players for the next eight qualifying games and earning a berth to an eighth-straight FIFA World Cup in Russia.”
Arena held the USMNT post between 1998 and 2006 and achieved a record of 71-30-29.
The Brooklynite is the only coach to have led the team at two FIFA World Cup tournaments.
Following two defeats in their opening Hexagonal qualifiers to Mexico and Costa Rica, Arena will be aiming to get the U.S back on track in March when they face Honduras and Panama.
