Arena: It would be ‘slap in the face’ if career ends with Revs resignation

The coach spoke for the first time after he resigned amid an investigation last year

Bruce Arena has spoken out about his resignation as New England Revolution head coach last year, saying that it would be a “slap in the face” if that was how his career ended.

Arena was placed on administrative leave last August amid a MLS investigation into allegations of “insensitive and inappropriate remarks.”

One month later, the former U.S. men’s national team coach stepped down, admitting that he had made “mistakes” in his conduct.

This week, Arena appeared on CBS Sports show “Kickin’ It,” and spoke out for the first time about his departure last year.

The 72-year-old was asked if he was able to comment on the specifics of the investigation that led to his resignation.

“If there’s a time where I can legally, I will do it,” Arena said. “I would welcome that.”

Arena added that he did take responsibility for the events that led to his ouster.

“Yeah, you have to take responsibility for it but I think I have to be reserved in what I say,” he said, “but I’ll just say yes to your question, but I can’t go into any detail.”

As one of the most accomplished coaches in American soccer history, it would be understandable if Arena decided to end his coaching career. Instead, he’s been actively seeking out another role after he was reinstated by MLS.

Host Kate Abdo asked if the way things ended in New England was a factor in his desire to end his career on different terms.

“That plays a role,” Arena admitted. “If that’s the ending, that’s a slap in the face.”

Arena said that he had not had any contact with Revs leadership since his departure.

“The players know what went on,” Arena said. “Because of legal restrictions, I can’t talk. The message to the people of New England is, ‘I miss you.’ The people in Boston were great to me, wonderful people. The players were great, so I enjoyed my time there. I’m disappointed in the way things ended and how they ended. But I don’t have control of that.”

Watch Arena discuss Revs resignation

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