Lion Links
Lion Links: 1/2/16
On the second day of the new year, we look ahead for all that is to come in 2016. I, for one, am counting down the days until the Orlando Pride begin their season, and the United States Women's National team goes for gold in the Rio Olympics. Until then, spend some time getting to know the future of soccer in these Lion Links.
Bold Predictions for 2016
Today is a new start for those teams out there struggling to find their stride, and for those players looking to make it big. A new year means new opportunities, a chance for the U.S. Men’s National Team to redeem themselves, and for the women to once again make history. Fresh faces will get a chance to shine in the NWSL and MLS, while other players will take a break from the game. As the year begins, here are some bold predictions for the 2016 year: The U.S. Women’s National Team will win its fourth Olympic gold medal, while the Brazilian men will clinch their first on home soil in Rio. Jurgen Klinsmann will keep his job, despite numerous rumors that he will be fired. With a big year ahead in soccer, Orlando City and the Pride will look to make a splash of their own in their sophomore and rookie seasons.
Young Players Look Internationally
With less than a week to go until the Major League Soccer Combine, Generation Adidas has yet to be announced. Some speculations have been circulating that Adidas has failed to reach their targets, due to their desire to play abroad. Top players like Joshua Yaro and Abu Danladi have been offered contracts for Generation Adidas, but rumors have been circulating that both are looking for opportunities outside of the United States. Wake Forest player Jack Harrison signed a Homegrown Deal with New York City FC and therefore is also ineligible for Generation Adidas. Currently only two players are signed, Omar Holness and Andrew Tarbell. Generation Adidas needs to push hard to sign more eligible players before the MLS Combine takes place.
South Korean Finds Home in National Women's Soccer League
The Western New York Flash have signed South Korean International Jeon Ga Eul. She will become the first player from South Korea to play in the NWSL. Jeon played as a midfielder for the South Korean team in the 2015 FIFA Women’s World Cup, which reached the round of 16, playing in every minute of the four matches. Why is her signing important? Up until now, the majority of the teams in the NWSL are made up of Americans with a few international players. The signing of players like Jeon open up doors for other players, helping build the NWSL into the best women’s league in the world.
Pride Player Prepares for the New Year
As the New Year begins, so do workouts for the upcoming season. Defender Toni Pressley has been putting in some work to be primed and ready to go as the preseason quickly approaches.
Well folks, that is all there is for today. Happy New Years and start counting because a new year means a new season. Go City!