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Lion Links: 7/18/15

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Good Saturday morning, Orlando. If you paced yourself at the bar last night, good on ya. If not, pop a Berocca (or three) with breakfast, or – if ‘hair of the dog’ is more your style – perhaps an Irish Coffee is in order.

Whatever you do, do it quick, as tailgate time is approaching this afternoon at the Citrus Bowl prior to Orlando City’s showdown with the New York Red Bulls this evening. As you prep, mentally and physically, for the match, enjoy this morning’s batch of Lion Links and get your game face on like Inchy.

UCF and Orlando City Team Up to Change a 6-Year-Old Boy’s Life

Brazilian boy Paulo Costa Boa Nova was born without part of his arm because of a genetic defect. In today’s “feel better about the world” story, Orlando Health brought the boy and his father to Orlando, where he was presented with a 3-D printed arm created by Limbitless Solutions, which is comprised of students at UCF. The presentation took place at OCSC’s training facility in Lake Mary, where Kaká, Aurélien Collin and Tally Hall were present and even kicked the ball around a bit with Paulo.

City will celebrate the students’ work tonight when they recognize Paulo, his father, and several Limbitless Solutions team members at the NYRB match.

Paulo (right) received his “bionic” arm with support of Alex, the first recipient of a bionic (Iron Man themed) arm from Limbitless. Photo courtesy of Orlando City SC and the University of Central Florida.

Player Salaries Released by MLS

We knew Kaká made a pretty penny to bless us Central Floridians with his soccer genius, and these numbers released on Friday confirm that the Brazilian gets paaaaaaid. With a base salary of $6,660,000 per season plus bonuses, Kaká’s guaranteed compensation for 2015 comes out to a cool $7,167,500. Not too shabby.

Not far behind Orlando’s Captain – per the Orlando Sentinel‘s MLS Salary Database – is Sebastian Giovinco of Toronto FC. Despite a base salary that is more than $1 million lower than Kaká’s, the Atomic Ant’s guaranteed compensation for 2015 is only about $52,000 fewer. Among the surprises on this list is the $60,000 salary of City Designated Player Carlos Rivas, but that may have something to do with his transfer fee from former club Deportivo Cali.

Javaier “Chicharito” Hernández Madness Continues

Friday brought more news in the Chicharito saga, this time from perhaps the least credible source yet. Chicha is not coming to Major League Soccer, and this time we know it’s super official because it came from the mouth of a Liga MX team owner, Chivas Guadalajara’s Jorge Vergara.

“I can assure you that Javier Hernandez is not going to MLS, we are super clear on that. Before he goes to MLS, we would take him in for Mexico [Liga MX], that is for sure,” Vergara told ESPN Mexico’s Raza Deportiva show on Thursday. “We would break the piggy bank for him.”

This comes as a big surprise (sarcasm font). Why would an owner from Liga MX be threatened by MLS targeting Mexican talent? With the recent signing of Gio dos Santos by LA Galaxy and the courtship of Hernández by Orlando, what’s there to worry about?

For the record, this means nothing in terms of Chicharito and Orlando City, but it’s a fine opportunity to make fun of Vergara’s insecurity regarding MLS poaching Mexican talent.

Miami MLS Stadium to Be Built Next to Marlins Park

David Beckham announced his ambitions for a Miami-based MLS team 17 months ago, and Friday it was announced that he and his group of investors would privately fund a stadium next to Marlins Park.

“Today’s meeting with Mayor Regalado was another positive step toward bringing a world class soccer club to Miami,” said a Miami Beckham United spokesperson. “[We] are thrilled by the initial outpouring of support we’ve received from our fans and we’re excited about sharing our plans with the city, county and community soon.”

The stadium is a proposed 25,000-seater, and the group is hopeful to begin play in 2018. Also, is Miami Beckham United a real thing? Because it’s awesomely bad.

Chicago Fire Reportedly Lead the Running to Land King Didi

The Didier Drogba to MLS rumors started long ago following the conclusion of the English Premier League season, and things appear to be heating up again according to ESPN FC. Per the report, “several teams” within MLS are in the running for the Ivorian legend, but the Chicago Fire currently sit in pole position for the services of the former Premier League Golden Boot winner, who spent the majority of his career at Chelsea while also making pit stops at Marseille, Shanghai Shenhua, and Galatasaray.

ESPN FC claims that Chicago is prepared to offer Drogba $2.5 million per year on an 18-month deal, which would be about $3.75 million over that span. Previous reports connecting Drogba to Orlando City had the Ivorian asking for a salary in the Kaká range, but have since been shot down by the Sentinel. The reported number the Fire are willing to offer still seems high for a 37-year-old who is well past his prime, but it is certainly much more reasonable than the numbers reported in previous stories involving Drogba and MLS.

Sports Illustrated Profile of Aston Villa and USMNT Goalkeeper Brad Guzan

Brian Strauss of Sports Illustrated provides us with an in-depth look into the mind of Brad Guzan, who is currently between the posts for the United States Men’s National Team in the Gold Cup and has been with Premier League side Aston Villa since 2008.

Guzan has had a tough road to first team ‘keeping, from battling behind Brad Friedel at Villa and playing second fiddle to Tim Howard with the USMNT for years. It is a very interesting read, and one that certainly gives some perspective on Guzan’s career and adds even more respect (in my mind) to the American shot-stopper who is now taking advantage of his opportunity to grab the reins.

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That’s it for this Saturday edition of Links, Mane Landers. Enjoy today’s festivities, and I hope you all get the chance to celebrate a victory over RBNY tonight. Go City!

Lion Links

Lion Links: 4/25/25

Orlando City gets ready for Atlanta United, Luiz Muzzi and Ricardo Moreira promoted, NWSL MVP candidates, and more.

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Image courtesy of Orlando City SC / Mark Thor

Happy Friday! Today starts three straight days of Orlando soccer to enjoy, so make sure to plan your weekend accordingly. It was a fairly fast week for me, and I was able to read three books somehow. Before we dive into today’s links, let’s all wish a very happy 21st birthday to Orlando City winger Nicolas Rodriguez!

Orlando City Gets Ready for Rivalry Match

The Lions are back in action Saturday night against rival Atlanta United in what should be one of the more interesting matchups of the weekend. Both teams are looking for answers on offense heading into this match, as Orlando is coming off of three straight scoreless draws and Atlanta hasn’t won since March. Taking on a rival at home could be just what’s needed for the Lions to jumpstart their attack and return to the form they had earlier this season. Head Coach Oscar Pareja spoke on how it’s an important game to win for Orlando, as well as how the offense needs to exercise some calmness to finish its chances.

Orlando City Promotes Luiz Muzzi and Ricardo Moreira

Luiz Muzzi and Ricardo Moreira were both promoted by Orlando City, with Moreira taking over as the club’s general manager and sporting director and Muzzi becoming senior advisor to ownership, global soccer ventures. It’s a natural step up for Moreira, who joined the club in 2018 and has helped build a competitive roster that’s made the playoffs for the past five seasons. Muzzi’s new role is a bit of a mouthful, but he’ll be taking on an advisory role focused on the growth of the club while working closely with ownership.

“I am truly grateful to have had the opportunity to serve as Orlando City Soccer Club’s EVP of Soccer Operations and General Manager for seven seasons, and I am excited to continue my journey with the club in this new role,” said Luiz Muzzi. “I look forward to working alongside the Wilf family and the leadership team to help shape the future of the club and its continued success, both on and off the field, and I know Orlando City’s Soccer Operations will be in great hands under Ricardo’s leadership.”

Orlando Pride Players in the NWSL MVP Hunt

Now that we’re over a month into the NWSL season, ESPN‘s Jeff Kassouf highlighted the league’s early MVP candidates, and there are a couple of familiar faces in his rankings. Orlando Pride forward Barbra Banda is predictably in the mix in sixth on the list, as she has three goals and an assist to her name so far. But a surprise inclusion is midfielder Haley McCutcheon, who has impressed on both sides of the ball to earn ninth place in the rankings. While I think the MVP race will ultimately be between scorers like Banda, Temwa Chawinga, Ashley Hatch, and Debinha, it’s pretty great to see McCutcheon receive deserved praise for her performance this year.

MLS Transfer News Roundup

The transfer deadline may be over for MLS clubs, but deals that crossed the finish line are still coming in. The Columbus Crew added yet another forward by sending up to $1.2 million to the Houston Dynamo in exchange for Aliyu Ibrahim. The 23-year-old will maintain his U22 Initiative Player status in Columbus and recorded 12 goals and nine assists across 90 appearances for Houston. LAFC signed 26-year-old midfielder Ryan Raposo, who spent the past five seasons with the Vancouver Whitecaps and was a free agent this year. St. Louis City also made things official with Simon Becher by making his loan move a permanent one so that he stays with the club.

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That’s all I have for you this time around. Mother’s Day is less than a month away, just as a warning. If the mothers in your life like romance books and you’re looking for a gift, I can’t recommend The Rom-Commers by Katherine Center enough. Have a great Friday!

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Lion Links

Lion Links: 4/24/25

Orlando Pride prepare for Angel City FC, MLS deadline day deals, OCB slips in power rankings, and more.

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Image courtesy of Orlando Pride / Jeremy Reper

How’s it going, Mane Landers? It’s been a few days since a rough weekend for Orlando City and the Orlando Pride. Time heals all wounds, but let’s also hope it heals offenses considering both teams were shut out. Let’s go ahead and manifest some good officiating this weekend as well while we’re at it. That might be a tall order, but I’m feeling optimistic. Let’s get to the links!

Orlando Pride Prepare for Angel City FC

The Orlando Pride will look to bounce back when they welcome Angel City FC to the City Beautiful for a home game Friday night. Orlando lost its first game of the year and first home game since 2023 last week against the Washington Spirit, falling 1-0. Angel City is also coming off of its first loss of the season, falling 4-0 at home to NJ/NY Gotham FC at home. Pride defender Kerry Abello spoke on how the Pride will need to create better chances compared to last week as they prepare to right the ship with a home victory.

Orlando City B Drops a Spot in Power Rankings

Although OCB fell from third to fourth in the latest MLS NEXT Pro power rankings, the Young Lions are solidly in the top five teams in the league. OCB was on a bye last weekend, so not moving too much in the rankings can be expected. While the Young Lions fell 3-2 in their last league game against Inter Miami II, spirits are likely high with the team due to the Orlando City U-18 team’s success in the Generation Adidas Cup. Let’s hope the Young Lions can ride that momentum into Sunday night’s match with New York Red Bulls II.

MLS Deadline Day Transfer News

The MLS transfer deadline day has come and gone and there were some notable moves to catch up on. Real Salt Lake’s deal with Boavista for forward Robert Bozenik reportedly collapsed, but the club still added striker William Agada from Sporting Kansas City in exchange for $500,000 in 2025 General Allocation Money and another $350,000 in GAM if he re-signs. Inter Miami traded winger Robert Taylor to Austin FC in exchange for up to $750,000 in GAM, with only $50,000 of that being conditional. Atlanta United traded winger Xande Silva to St. Louis City SC for up to $250,000 in GAM as well.

The Houston Dynamo also have a new forward, signing Toyosi Olusanya from Scottish club St. Mirren. The New England Revolution traded Noel Buck to the San Jose Earthquakes for up to $650,000 in cold, hard cash, reuniting the 20-year-old with Bruce Arena. Frankie Amaya is back in MLS, joining LAFC on loan from Toluca. As of this writing, Minnesota United are reportedly in hot pursuit of Miami’s Julian Gressel.

Sources: Minnesota United in advanced talks to acquire Julian Gressel from Inter Miami.Nothing done yet. Still details to figure out. Optimism something gets done, but not there yet.

Tom Bogert (@tombogert.bsky.social) 2025-04-24T00:25:26.971Z

Keeping Up With the Americans Abroad

The race for a place in the English Premier League is heating up in the EFL Championship and Americans are right in the thick of it. Brenden Aaronson and Leeds United have already secured promotion, along with Burnley. Forward Haji Wright has scored 12 goals for Coventry City this season, and his club currently holds the final playoff spot. Midfielder Aidan Morris and Middlesbrough are three points behind, while former Lion Daryl Dike and West Brom will need to win their remaining two matches for a shot at sneaking in.

In Italy, Christian Pulisic started in AC Milan’s 3-0 victory over rival Inter to book a spot in the Italian Cup final on May 14. Fellow American Yunus Musah was an unused substitute. Catarina Macario scored twice and Mia Fishel added a goal as well in Chelsea’s 4-0 win against Crystal Palace, helping their team get ever closer to winning its sixth straight Women’s Super League title.

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That’s it for today’s links! Make sure to stay hydrated out there as we get closer and closer to summer. Have a wonderful Thursday and rest of your week.

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Lion Links

Lion Links: 4/23/25

The Orlando Pride drop, OCSC Academy awards, USMNT characters, and more.

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Image courtesy of Orlando City B / Mark Thor

Welcome to Wednesday, Mane Landers. This weekend we have the most convenient schedule, with the Orlando Pride playing Friday night, Orlando City on Saturday night, and Orlando City B on Sunday night. It’s nice knowing what I’ll be doing each night. Now, I just need all three teams to get back on the winning side of things. Until then, let’s get to the links.

Bad Pride, Good Pride

It might have been the dumbest way to lose a match against the Washington Spirit, but — actually nevermind, there is no “but” about it. We can, however, decide to move forward rather than dwell on it after today. Unsurprisingly, the Pride dropped in the all-knowing power rankings. All for XI only dropped the Pride one spot to No. 2 since everyone has a bad day now and again. The CBS power ranking dropped the team to No. 3. That was the “bad.” The “good” is that we can revisit the puppies that showed up at Inter&Co Stadium. The loss still hurts, but it’s hard to stay mad after looking at the puppies.

The (OCSC) Academy Awards

Assuming you read Lion Links on Monday morning (or listened to The Mane Land PawedCast this week) you know that the Orlando City SC Academy U-18 team won the Generation Adidas Cup. Now we know that three of the very young Lions — Gustavo Caraballo, Jackson Platts, and Justin Ellis — were named to the U18 Best XI. Additionally, Caraballo and Ellis earned MVP and Top Scorer awards, respectively. It was truly the bright spot of an otherwise forgettable weekend.

Pochettino Prepares

The USMNT did not do well in the Concacaf Nations League, falling to Panama and then Canada in the third place match. Now, U.S. Head Coach Mauricio Pochettino has to prepare the team for the Gold Cup. Pochettino said that he needs the “right characters” on the squad, whether they are the most talented or not. He also spoke of the need for the players to fight for the badge and the flag. Former USMNT coach Bruce Arena said Pochettino may not be the right man for the job because he’s not an American. The USMNT’s next matches are friendlies against Turkiye and Switzerland on June 7 and June 10, respectively.

MLS Transfer News

The Columbus Crew are making moves. The club received $250,000 in General Allocation Money (GAM) from the Houston Dynamo in exchange for a 2025 international roster slot. The club then sent DeJuan Jones to the San Jose Earthquakes for $425,000 in GAM and a 2025 international roster slot. Elsewhere, Sporting Kansas City acquired forward Santiago Muñoz on loan from Liga MX side Santos Laguna.

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That will do it for today. Check back as we get you ready for the full slate of matches coming up.

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