Arena succeeds Ruud Gullit, who resigned last week, and the club hope he can bring with him the success he enjoyed both at international level and in winning two MLS Cups with DC United.

He also becomes the club's general manager.

Tim Leiweke, president of Galaxy owners AEG, said: "While it has been a very difficult week, I believe the end result is a very positive step forward for the Galaxy.

"Bruce is the best coach for the Galaxy and certainly one of the best coaches in the history of the league.

"I am impressed with his passion, desire and focus and believe that his recent experiences with the US national team and (New York) Red Bulls have prepared and motivated him for this next challenge."

Arena takes charge of a team loaded with talent - most obviously England midfielder Beckham, Landon Donovan and Carlos Ruiz - but without a win in eight games.

They are currently outside the play-off places in the Western Conference.

Arena is the most successful coach in the history of the United States national team, twice qualifying for the World Cup and reaching the quarter-finals of the tournament in 2002.

"I am very excited to assume this position with the Los Angeles Galaxy," said the 57-year-old coach.