Revolution sporting director and head coach Bruce Arena resigns amid investigation into “insensitive and innapropriate remarks”

FOXBOROUGH, MA— Bruce Arena has resigned from his positions as sporting director and head coach of the New England Revolution amid investigation into “insensitive and inappropriate remarks”.

On Tuesday, August 1st, the New England Revolution released a statement that, “Head Coach Bruce Arena has been placed on administrative leave pending a review into allegations that he made insensitive and inappropriate remarks”. The team made sure to note that this was not a health-related issue for Arena’s absence.

The team also announced that Technical Director Curt Onalfo would interim duties as Sporting Director, and assistant coach Richie Williams would be appointed as interim Head Coach until completion of the investigation.

The month-long investigation was carried out by outside law firm Proskauer Rose and according to The Athletics‘ Tom Bogert and Pablo Iglesias Mauer, they stated that 8 sources and multiple team employees confirmed to them that complaints from current Interim Head Coach Richie Williams was amongst the investigation. Their article reads that the investigation was centered around, “comments Arena allegedly made behind closed doors and to his coaching staff.”

Just moments after Saturday’s 1-1 draw versus Minnesota United, the New England Revolution released a statement that read, “The New England Revolution have accepted the resignation of Bruce Arena. We wish Bruce well and thank him for his contributions to the team. Curt Onalfo will continue to serve as interim Sporting Director and Richie Williams will continue to serve as interim Head Coach as the team prepares to close out the 2023 season.”

The New England Revolution announce the departure of Head Coach Bruce Arena. Image Courtesy of New England Revolution.

Following the statement released by the Revolution, Arena released a statement that read, “After much soul searching, I have decided to resign my position as Head Coach and Sporting Director of the New England Revolution.”

“To begin, I would like to thank Robert Kraft and Jonathan Kraft for providing me with this opportunity 4 years ago. In my time with the Revolution, we have had much success, and it truly has been a direct reflection of all the support the organization has provided me. In particular, I also want to thank the players, coaches, and staff at the Revolution as everyone has provided outstanding service and done a terrific job to help elevate the club to where it is today.”

“I also want to thank the soccer community at large for their tremendous support during the past 6 weeks. The investigation has been a hard and difficult process, for me and my family, but hearing so many who have been a part of my career truly has been gratifying and has helped make this decision easier.”

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

“With appreciation to the Revolution, and gratitude to soccer, Bruce Arena.”

Following the announcement from the New England Revolution, Major League Soccer responded with a statement of their own regarding Bruce Arena’s departure from New England.

Major League Soccer’s statement following the resignation of Head Coach Bruce Arena. Image Courtesy of Major League Soccer.

“It was announced earlier this evening that Bruce Arena has resigned as Sporting Director and Head Coach of the New England Revolution. Arena was placed on administrative leave pending a review into allegations that he made insensitive and inappropriate remarks. As result of the investigation, should Arena wish to pursue future employment within MLS, he must first submit a petition to the Commissioner.”

“MLS is committed to safe and welcoming work environments and expects all employees of the League and its clubs to conduct themselves appropriately in the workplace.”

Bruce Arena leaves New England with a 68-43-42 record in all competitions as Revolution Head Coach. He holds the highest win percentage of any coach (58.28%) in Revolution history.

The Revolution will host a press conference tomorrow, September 12th at 12:00. Interim Head Coach Richie Williams and captain Carles Gil will be in attendance.

The New England Revolution (13-9-5, 48 pts.) head out to Commerce City, Colorado to face MLS Western Conference side Colorado Rapids (3-10-13, 19 pts.) in an MLS Match on Saturday, September 16th. The match kicks off in DSG Park at 7:30 p.m. ET on MLS Season Pass on the Apple TV app.

(Editor’s Note: For more of Burt Granofsky’s photos, click on the link)