CARSON, Calif. – LA Galaxy club president Chris Klein asserted that the decision to allow Bruce Arena to depart for the U.S. National Team’s head coaching position was in “the best interest of the club."

Arena departed the Galaxy on Tuesday to take the helm of the USMNT for a second time, ending his highly successful eight-year tenure with the club. During his time as head coach and general manager of the Galaxy, Arena won three MLS Cups, a Supporters’ Shield, and reached the postseason in eight consecutive seasons.

Although the Arena era has come to a close at StubHub Center, Klein is confident that the club will continue to move in the right direction.

“The LA Galaxy had a choice to make and felt that this decision was in the best interest of the club, for Bruce and for the betterment of soccer in the United States,” said LA Galaxy President Chris Klein in a statement. “We have been incredibly fortunate to have Bruce coach this team over the past eight years and will greatly miss him. Bruce has meant so much to this organization and helped make the LA Galaxy into what it is today. We will support Bruce as he pursues this new opportunity and want to thank him for his many contributions to the Galaxy during his time here.

“We have an internal timeline in place and will communicate our plans regarding the LA Galaxy head coach and general manager roles within the coming days.”