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Lion Links: 10/14/17

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8 years ago

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Happy Saturday, people of purple. If you’re looking for something to do today, go to the NWSL championship match down at Orlando City Stadium. A professional sports league is having its final right here in our city, so we should turn out for what is sure to be an exciting match between the Portland Thorns and North Carolina Courage. I’ll be at the stadium later to cover the game and am looking forward to it.

Hopefully you’ve already secured your tickets for Kaká’s final match with Orlando City. Ballon d’Or winners don’t come our way every day and we’ve had Ricky for three years. It’s been a pleasure to watch him show his skills for the Lions and even though I think it’s time for him to move on, I might find the conditions a little dusty tomorrow. Just in case you haven’t gotten your tickets yet, it’ll be your last chance to enjoy The Mane Land ticket discount.

All right, let’s get to your Saturday links.

Prosecutors Won’t Pursue Charges Against Will Johnson

MLS announced last night that the prosecution will not pursue domestic violence charges against Will Johnson. The Orlando City veteran midfielder was arrested Sept. 6 after an altercation with his wife, with whom he is going through a divorce. As a condition of not pursuing the charges, Johnson will undergo a diversion program for a year, which includes a 26-week domestic violence counseling component. Per MLS:

The evidence reviewed by the MLS league office does not establish that Johnson physically assaulted his wife. Nonetheless, the league office has concluded that his overall conduct the night of the incident was not consistent with league policy. As a result of all of the circumstances, the league office has concluded that the five-game suspension served was appropriate.

Johnson, who began training with the team early this week, will be eligible for selection on Sunday when the Lions host the Columbus Crew. It will be interesting to see if he gets on the field and how fans react to his return.

Bruce Arena: He Gone

Three days after the debacle in Trinidad, Bruce Arena resigned as head coach of the United States Men’s National Team. Arena was hired to get World Cup qualifying back on track after a horrible start to the Hex under Jurgen Klinsmann. Things started off well under Arena and qualifying was nearly a sure thing after a 4-0 demolition of Panama here in Orlando just eight days ago, but the perfect storm happened Tuesday as the USMNT lost while both Honduras (vs. Mexico) and Panama (vs. Costa Rica) upset the top teams in CONCACAF.

Here’s Bruce’s parting statement.

An Honorable Captain Goes Down with the Ship, Sunil

While Arena bowed out gracefully, U.S. Soccer Federation President Sunil Gulati dug in on Friday and said he’s staying put. In fact, he’s actively seeking nominating support to run for a fourth term. That’s a little like the guy who burned down your house asking for your support in being elected fire chief.

"I don't plan to resign…it's not the right day for me to talk about my personal future plans in terms of the fed presidency. It’s not the right time," Gulati stated early during the press conference. While he danced around several questions over whether he would run for re-election as USSF president in Feburary at the Annual General Meeting, he did acknowledge that he had sent a letter to board members asking for their nomination for a 4th four-year term. What is clear is that he intends to see out the United bid for the 2026 World Cup and believes he should be the person in charge when that happens.

Gulati pushed back on reporters who asked why he feels resigning is not what necessary, stating “This is not something that they do in other countries. Maybe coaches resign, but presidents do not…this is not something I’m planning to do.” He further cited the fact that he shouldn’t be judged on Tuesday night’s game but the overall growth of the game in the United States since he was elected president in 2006.

Part of the USSF president’s job is to grow the game at all levels in our country on both the men’s and women’s side. Yet Gulati held his defense-first conference call — in which many writers with uncomfortable questions for him were left on hold until time ran out — at the same time that NWSL Media Day was going on in Orlando. As the NWSL is the women’s top flight in our country, this was an incredibly tone deaf move by a guy in charge of an organization that continues to force the USWNT to play on artificial turf fields. There was no need to steal the NWSL’s moment in the soccer spotlight.

How do U.S. supporters feel about Gulati not only staying on but also seeking reelection? Well, the American Outlaws released a statement.

Another Look at the Legacy of Kaká

Paul Tenorio over at FourFourTwo gave a fair assessment of Kaká’s value on and off the pitch for Orlando City and discussed how the two sides of what the captain brought to the club built the Brazilian’s MLS legacy. The TLDR; version is that Kaká did a boatload for the team and the league and was somewhat productive on the field — just not $7 million worth of productive.

As the highest-paid player in the league, Kaka’s production was just OK. In three seasons in MLS, he never scored double-digit goals – eight of his 24 goals across three seasons were from the penalty spot – and he hit double-digit assists just once. He played 28 games in his inaugural season, 24 games in 2016 and will finish his career with 23 games played in 2017. Sometimes, his defensive deficiencies left his team exploited.

The bigger problem was that, at his price, Kaka also represented an opportunity cost. With David Villa producing in back-to-back MVP-caliber seasons in New York, and Sebastian Giovinco turning the league on his head, Kaka’s $7 million price tag was as much a negative as it was a positive. His peers were changing games every week. What could Orlando City do with that Designated Player spot if given the chance?

Tenorio’s piece also has a good breakdown of how much money Orlando City could clear off the books this off-season, so head on over and give it a read.

Orlando Pride U-18/19 Team to Face North Carolina Today

Before this afternoon’s NWSL final, Orlando Pride’s U-18/19 team will host the North Carolina Courage U-18s/19s in Sanford, FL, at the Seminole Soccer Complex. The match will take place at 11 a.m. and will be streamed on the U.S. Soccer Development Academy Facebook page. Good luck to the Baby Pride. (Sorry, I couldn’t think of a catchy nickname for the team.)

Atlanta United Promotes Ex-OCSC GM Paul McDonough

Remember Armando Carneiro? Of course you don’t. Nobody does. You’re completely forgiven if you have forgotten the guy who was hired to be then-Orlando City GM Paul McDonough’s boss and the club’s “chief soccer officer.” After all, he was only on the job for about two months before resigning for personal reasons in December of 2015. But those two months were long enough to chase McDonough out the door. He ended up in Atlanta, as director of soccer operations. After helping build an Atlanta United team that made the playoffs in its inaugural season, McDonough has been promoted to vice president of soccer operations and his contract was extended for four years.

From my few chats with him, I think Paul’s a pretty good dude and there’s no question he learned a lot from the mistakes that were made in the early days of building Orlando City. While I wish nothing but pain and misery for the insufferable Atlanta fans who have slid into my DMs, I’m happy to see McDonough having success and can only shake my head at the entire Carneiro fiasco yet again.

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Well, we weren’t there last night, but this can’t be right. #FakeNews

  • MLS will hold an Expansion Draft for LAFC but shouldn’t, says FourFourTwo.
  • U2’s tour stop in Buenos Aires included a toast to Lionel Messi.
  • Those born on this date include William Penn (1644), Dwight D. Eisenhower (1890), legendary hoops coach John Wooden (1910), James Bond actor Sir Roger Moore (1927), Ralph Lauren (1939), Jerry Glanville (1941), Moody Blues singer Justin Hayward (1946), former Flyers enforcer Dave “The Hammer” Schultz (1949), Night Court actor and magician/comedian Harry Anderson (1952), Thomas “She Blinded Me with Science” Dolby (1958), A League of Their Own actress Lori Petty (1963), and Usher (1978).

That’s all the time I have for you this morning. Stay tuned to The Mane Land for full coverage of Orlando City’s home game tomorrow against the Columbus Crew and a recap of the NWSL final later today.

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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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2 days ago

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April 25, 2025

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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: 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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3 days ago

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April 24, 2025

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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: 4/23/25

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

Published

4 days ago

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April 23, 2025

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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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