Arena to Coach Red Bulls-

[northzax]

http://soccernet.espn.go.com/news/story?id=374029&cc=5901

SECAUCUS, N.J. -- Bruce Arena didn't have to wait long to find a new job.

Bruce Arena is headed back to MLS to coach the Red Bulls.

The former U.S. national team coach was hired by Major League Soccer's New York Red Bulls on Tuesday. Last Friday, the U.S. Soccer Federation opted not to renew Arena's contract with the national team.

Arena will replace interim coach Richie Williams, who was elevated to the top spot when head coach Mo Johnston was fired on June 27. In five games under Williams, New York was 1-3-1.

The Red Bulls are 3-6-8 this season -- the fewest wins in the league -- and are last in the Eastern Conference with 17 points. Only the Western Conference's Real Salt Lake has fewer points.

I don't know how I feel about this, actually, while I was hoping he would get a job in Europe, this does seem like it will bode well for MLS, it can't be a bad thing to have some decent competition in the NY-BOS-DC axis of the world, and does this mean that Red Bull is prepared to spend some money to get some players? Will having a good team in New York, which would follow some spending, drafting and Arena-coaching, be good for MLS? how can it not be? it's gotta be better than having United run away with the title over and over again. Good teams in Boston, DC and New York might actually get some television time as well.

thoughts?

[HuckleB]

1. He knew this long before today.

This was discussed during the World Cup, and it's why, in reality, Arena would have been unhappy to see the US Team offer him another contract.

And, yeah, the Bulls are planning to spend. Heck, they were courting Zidane out of retirement before the head-butt incident.

[northzax]

2. yes, and I know there is a rumor of Beckham

for a ton of change as well. doesn't mean it's a good idea, though, right? the need to spend on youth, not aged stars.

[HuckleB]

3. Well, if it puts fans in the stands to see the young stars...

it might make sense for a while.

[northzax]

4. if all Arena does in NY

is develop new talent (and it does exist, under the age of 20) then it's a good thing. There are at least 4, that I know of, Americans playing in Europe under the age of 20, that's the future.