Bruce Arena resigns from Revolution following MLS investigation

Tom VazquezSeptember 10, 2023

New England Revolution

Arena, who had played with New England since 2019, resigned following a league investigation into “insensitive and inappropriate comments.”

Bruce Arena is out as Revolution head coach and sporting director. Matthew J. Lee/Globe Staff

Bruce Arena has resigned from his position as head coach and athletic director of the New England Revolution. The team announced The change came shortly after the final whistle in Saturday’s 1-1 draw against Minnesota United.

“We wish Bruce all the best and thank him for his contribution to the team,” the club said.

A statement from Arena was also released. The 71-year-old was placed on administrative leave in early August amid an MLS investigation into “insensitive and inappropriate comments” he allegedly made.

“After much consideration, I have decided to resign my position as head coach and athletic director of the New England Revolution,” Arena wrote.

“First, I would like to thank Robert Kraft and Jonathan Kraft for giving me this opportunity [four] “Years ago,” he continued, also thanking those who provided their support during the investigation, which lasted several weeks.

“I know I made some mistakes, and moving forward I plan to spend some time reflecting on this situation and taking corrective action to address what happened,” Arena concluded. “And while this was not an easy decision, I am confident that it is in the best interest of both the New England Revolution organization and my family that we part ways at this time.”

Since the investigation began, very little has come to light. Even New England players reportedly remained largely in the dark about the status and schedule.

Arena is one of the league’s most successful coaches and holds the MLS record for most wins of all time. He is also a five-time MLS Cup winner, winning titles with DC United and the LA Galaxy.

He took over the Revolution midway through the 2019 season and led them to the playoffs in three of his four seasons (including a trip to the Eastern Conference Finals in 2020).

Richie Williams will remain the Revolution’s interim coach until at least the end of the 2023 season. Curt Onalfo will continue to serve as acting sports director.