The New England Revolution announced the arrival of Bruce Arena as their new Head Coach and Sporting Director, with the former US National team boss having also been linked with moves to Columbus Crew and Scotland. With former English Premier League goalkeeper Brad Friedel having been unable to turn around New England’s performances during his brief stint in charge at the Gillette Stadium, Arena arrives knowing full well the task facing him.
The Revolution currently sit second from bottom in the Eastern Conference standings, with just three wins to their name from their opening 14 MLS matches so far this year. Arena has so far lead New England to a 3-0 friendly defeat against English giants Chelsea, before claiming a credible goalless draw on the road against the Montreal Impact.
However, with a home tie against DC United finishing with a tie, Arena will be keen to claim his first three points for the Revs as soon as possible. With the odds on a New England victory having increased due to their poor start to the season a tough match against L.A. might not provide hope with the best betting apps on the globe place New England as the underdog – but tracking those bookmakers alongside US brands might see the team’s odds coverage and real time ability rise as the season progress.
A Fresh Start for the Revs
Arena has a long history in the MLS, however the former New York Red Bulls and LA Galaxy man is likely to want to do things his way following his dual appointment. While the Kraft Sports Group has given New England Patriots Head Coach Bill Belichick such freedom, it remains to be seen as to what restrictions Arena will be forced to work under. However, one thing that is for sure is that Robert Kraft will be hoping that Arena can solve higher management issues with the team, with many at the Revs feeling as though the time has come for the businessman to sell up.
Arena is likely to look to make changes when it comes to scouting, with their current roster meaning that it comes as little surprise that they are struggling on the field. The Revs have invested relatively little in comparison to their rivals, with their failed attempt to sign DR Congo international Paul-Jose M’Poku during the off season optimising their errors.
Arena’s MLS Record
Arena has won a record five MLS Cups as a coach, with his greatest success coming with the LA Galaxy. The 67-year-old has also won both the Eastern and Western Conferences on three separate occasions, however some have questioned if his coaching style is now outdated. With the Revs being in grave danger of being left behind both on and off the field, Arena will have to use all of his tricks to get New England firing again. However, having left his role with the US national team following their failure to qualify for the 2018 World Cup in Russia, his reputation is once again on the line, in what could be the final chapter of his coaching career. Can Arena get the better of his rivals in a league that has a more international flavor to it? Only time will tell.
