Friday, March 17, 2006
Who's the Co-Pilot?
It's hard to imagine any one else coaching the U.S. National Team other than Bruce Arena. Sure, I can still see Bora and his goofy smirk or Steve Sampson and his linebacker profile stalking the sidelines. But Arena's national teams have come to signify worldwide respect by the soccer community. Well, I'm sure there are many corners who still relegate us to hacks, but it's to the point now that no matter what anyone says, the team's performances speak for themselves. So once Bruce decides to move on, after this Cup or the next or the next, who would likely succeed him? More to the point, would that person be from the domestic ranks or an international hire? If we had to replace Bruce this July, who would be a likely candidate...Bob Bradley (kicked out of NJ)? Steve Sampson again (ha! but his '05 resume is hard to beat)? John Harkes (straight from the announcer's booth)? Mooch Myernick? Sven-Goran (unemployed)? Tony DiCicco (ladies with an attitude)? At this point, as the previous list implies, there's no one who seems worthy or likely to me. But there must be an heir to the throne eventually. (Bostrom)
