Bruce Arena is no longer head coach of the USA men’s soccer team, after the disastrous World Cup qualifying cycle in which the United States failed to qualify for the sport’s most important tournament.
On Friday morning, it was announced that Arena has resigned from his position.
“It is the greatest privilege for any coach to manage their country’s National Team, and as I leave that role today I am honored and grateful to have had that opportunity twice in my career,” Arena said in a statement.
“When I took the job last November, I knew there was a great challenge ahead, probably more than most people could appreciate. Everyone involved in the program gave everything they had for the last 11 months and, in the end, we came up short. No excuses. We didn’t get the job done, and I accept responsibility.”
He added, “Obviously the biggest disappointment is for our fans. As a person involved in the sport for more than 40 years, to see how support for soccer in the United States has grown is incredibly gratifying. I believe I speak for everyone involved in the game in thanking all of you for your passion and commitment, and I hope you maintain your steadfast support of U.S. Soccer.”
The United States missed the World Cup after losing to Trinidad and Tobago in the final match of qualifying.
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