CARSON, Calif. — Bruce Arena’s second run as U.S. men’s national soccer team coach began in earnest Wednesday morning amid palm trees, soft breezes and a brightening sky at StubHub Center. For the moment anyway, it was a fitting backdrop as players affirmed a renewed spirit and Arena mixed one-liners with serious aims.
“I actually call it my third chance,” he said, a reference to his previous tenure encompassing two World Cups. “Hopefully, three strikes and you’re out is not the case.”
The first time was a charm (2002 quarterfinals). The second was a bust (winless group stage in 2006).