Arena provides calm in his return for USA

Associated Press

MEXICO CITY

Bruce Arena has managed the tricky task of establishing a sense of calm along with urgency within the U.S. soccer team. It’s quite a contrast to the frustration and futility at the end of Jurgen Klinsmann’s coaching reign last November.

Of course, climbing from last to third in the final round of World Cup qualifying has eased pressure immensely.

“We haven’t lost yet this year since Bruce has had the team,” U.S. Soccer Federation President Sunil Gulati said Monday, a day after a 1-1 draw with Mexico at Azteca Stadium. “So whatever has gotten us there, whatever occasion or bonding that’s led to a change, that’s a positive, and certainly Bruce has to receive a lot of credit.”