Cobi Jones names the 3 best leaders from his USMNT and MLS career
USMNT all-time appearance leader Cobi Jones reflects on the three influential figures who shaped his professional journey.
Cobi Jones, the all-time appearance leader for the United States men’s national team who spent 12 seasons with the LA Galaxy, has named the three individuals who stood out as the best leaders during his playing career.
First, Jones credits Sigi Schmid, his coach at both UCLA and with the Galaxy. Schmid instilled a mindset of daily incremental improvement. According to Jones, Schmid treated coaching like a constant learning process, always researching and scouting to get better, which served as a blueprint for Jones’ own professional development.
The second leader is Earnie Stewart, whom Jones roomed with during his time with the national team. Coming from Europe, Stewart taught Jones the importance of professionalism.
You don’t miss a training session. You don’t miss a treatment. He taught me all those little things add up, and they matter. Cobi Jones
Finally, Jones highlights Bruce Arena, the long-time USMNT head coach. Arena was adept at fostering a group-first mentality and granting players the independence to police themselves. By treating players like adults and placing the responsibility on them, Arena helped build a tighter, more accountable squad.