LA Galaxy boss Bruce Arena says Gerrard can 'broaden' management skills in U.S.

Bruce Arena believes the best place for Steven Gerrard to hone his skills in management is the United States.

The 35-year-old moved to LA Galaxy after 17 years of first-team football at his boyhood club, Liverpool. He has made no secret of his desire to return to Anfield as a manager, though, even going as far to name former teammates Jamie Carragher and Xabi Alonso as his ideal assistants in his new book, "My Story."

"The best coaching environment in the world is the USA," Arena told the BBC.

The former national team manager believes the wealth of professional leagues in the States can help Gerrard develop as a coach. The Major League Baseball and American football seasons are underway, while ice hockey and basketball start their 2015-16 campaigns next month.

"Stepping away from the Premier League, and away from football for 24 hours a day, will broaden his skills," added the 64-year-old.

"We have top-flight professional leagues in a variety of sports, and on a daily basis it's interesting to watch how teams and coaches respond to the different pressures on them."

Arena praised how Gerrard has settled into life stateside, in addition to his professionalism and approachable nature around the club.

"Gerrard is very special, the impressions he has made on people are remarkable," said Arena, a five-time MLS Cup winner.

"That doesn't always happen but Stevie has embraced everything here at LA Galaxy - he's spoken to the fans, academy players, and even those in the front office. He's bought into everything.

"He's enjoyed being able to spend time with his family in public. People here are used to seeing people who have accomplished a lot so he gets away with not being noticed."

LA Galaxy should comfortably secure a playoff spot in the next few games, and welcomes Western Conference rival FC Dallas to the StubHub Center on Sunday.