In a breaking development, former USMNT midfielder and current head coach of Central Valley Fuego, Jermaine Jones, has been suspended through the end of the USL League One season. According to a report from The Athletic, an investigation substantiated claims of harassment, retaliation, and hostility directed by Jones toward members of the team.
The suspension, which was not made public by the club or the league, stems from multiple incidents of alleged misconduct. Since August 30th, Jones has not been in charge of the team, and on September 27th, the USL officially suspended him, stating that the investigation was complete and the punishment final.
Jones’ lawyer and the club are now seeking his reinstatement, claiming that the investigation was influenced by bias and unfair treatment from the USL Player’s Association (USLPA).
Anonymous accounts from three players and an employee paint a grim picture of Jones’ tenure as coach, describing an environment filled with fear and intimidation. One player remarked, “He comes in here, saying he played for the U.S. national team. He’s powerful. He has friends in the Federation and all over the place.”
The players also allege that Jones boasted about his ability to “destroy careers” and harassed them with impunity. Another source said, “He can do just about whatever he wants to you. He can bully you, harass you, and you have to be quiet and take the harassment.”
One of the most damning revelations was Jones’ disparaging view of USL League One itself. One player shared how Jones expressed disdain for the league, calling it “a sh*t league” and claiming that he didn’t even want to be there.
Jones’ comments, particularly his criticism of players who remain in the league past a certain age, have left a bitter taste for some. “He said if you’re 28 and still playing League One, basically you’re sh*t, you’re done,” one player recounted, highlighting the harshness of Jones’ remarks given that he himself had never coached before this position.
As this saga unfolds, Jones’ future with Central Valley Fuego and within professional coaching remains uncertain. His legal team will likely continue to pursue his reinstatement, but the damage to his reputation may be long-lasting.