Bruce Arena: US soccer’s Alex Ferguson approaches a murky end

The former USA and LA Galaxy coach resigned from New England last week. But it's unclear exactly what brought about his downfall

The most successful coach in the history of MLS and the US men's national team must beg the league commissioner for permission if he ever wants to return to a job in MLS. And yet, six weeks after Bruce Arena was placed on leave and a couple of days after he resigned as New England Revolution head coach and sporting director, it's still unclear precisely what he did to deserve such a severe sanction.

Allegations of inappropriate comments were followed by a virtual omerta from the club, the league and Arena himself, resulting in a level of transparency during the disciplinary process that's in inverse proportion to his status in the American game.