Lion Links
Lion Links: 4/19/21
Merry Monday morning, Mane Landers! I know that we all wanted a win to start the season, but we should have known a draw was coming considering Orlando City’s track record when opening the season. Saturday was Orlando’s sixth time starting the season with a draw in MLS.
The Injury Bug is Already Biting the Lions
Orlando City supporters were rightly worried when Orlando forward Alexandre Pato left the match limping in the second half after an awkward landing. We are all still waiting on a definitive answer to how Pato is doing and his status is one of the major concerns following Orlando’s match against Atlanta United. Despite the Lions not being able to score, the defense was solid enough to earn a clean sheet and start the 2021 season with a point.
MLS’ First Week Back Wraps Up
The MLS season continued on Sunday with several matches, including Inter Miami’s 3-2 loss to the LA Galaxy. In a bit of awesomeness, former Lion Sacha Kljestan scored the game-winner in the 81st minute. Javier “Chicharito” Hernandez scored the Galaxy’s first two goals and was emotional after the match. There were also some early celebrations between two old teammates after Miami’s first goal of the season.
Beckham 🤝 Neville
The former Man United duo celebrate Inter Miami's first goal of the season 🤩 pic.twitter.com/37zHkYhKv5
— ESPN FC (@ESPNFC) April 18, 2021
The Columbus Crew and Philadelphia Union each earned a point in their 0-0 result. Two of the Eastern Conference’s toughest teams splitting points is about as good a result as the Lions could hope for. In the late match, Vancouver Whitecaps forward Lucas Cavallini scored the game’s only goal in a 1-0 win over the Portland Timbers.
Americans Impressed Abroad This Weekend
Orlando forward Daryl Dike played all 90 minutes of Barnsley’s 2-0 loss to Coventry City, but obviously wasn’t able to get a goal in the match. Elsewhere, it was an eventful weekend for American players across Europe. FC Barcelona’s Sergino Dest became the first American to win the Copa del Rey, starting and playing 74 minutes in a 4-0 win over Athletic Bilbao. Zack Steffen started in goal for Manchester City, losing 1-0 to Christian Pulisic and Chelsea in the FA Cup semifinals. Giovanni Reyna scored his first goal of 2021 for Borussia Dortmund in a 4-1 win over Josh Sargent and Werder Bremen.
Yunus Musah returned to the pitch for Valencia in La Liga, but was unable to get on the scoreboard in a 2-2 draw on the road. Julian Green also scored a goal in the 2. Bundesliga in Greuther Furth’s 2-2 draw with Darmstadt.
Europe’s Biggest Clubs Pushing for Super League
There’s been talk for a while that the biggest clubs in the world might break away and form a European super league. A total of 12 clubs, including the likes of Manchester United, Liverpool, Juventus, Barcelona, and Real Madrid, announced they were launching the league. The idea is that 15 permanent clubs and five rotating clubs would make up the new league. If created, the league would jeopardize the UEFA Champions League, which was expected to announce a new 36-team format today.
Needless to say, the domestic leagues are not happy about this potential development and are taking action to try and stop it. Things are going to get interesting.
At least one club decided that despite having famous owners (actors Ryan Reynolds and Rob McElhenney) it is not going to join the potential new super league.
STATEMENT | ESL
Despite the club's two 4-0 victories this week, we can confirm that we will not be seeking membership to the newly uncovered 'European Super League' and will continue our quest to reach the EFL.
The club will be making no further comment.
🔴⚪️ #WxmAFC pic.twitter.com/Qqf9i2GeFf
— Wrexham AFC (@Wrexham_AFC) April 18, 2021
Free Kicks
- In case you missed it, Orlando Pride goalkeeper Ashlyn Harris won NWSL Save of the Week.
All worthy, but we have a winner… 🗳️@Ashlyn_Harris' penalty save takes home @Verizon Save of the Week 👏#CC21 pic.twitter.com/lSPp3N9Nxe
— National Women's Soccer League (@NWSL) April 16, 2021
- The New York Red Bulls are reportedly inking a deal with Celtic striker Patryk Klimala. The Poland native has only been in the Scottish League since the beginning of 2020.
- A potential pitch invader made his way into a closed-door match in England. It’s one thing when the stands are full, but to make it in when security is not just around the pitch, but the stadium itself? That’s commitment.
- On Sunday, 4,000 supporters made their way into Wembley Stadium for the FA Cup semifinal match between Leicester City and Southampton. The match was a test event to see how English soccer can deal with allowing fans back into the stands. Those in attendance underwent testing prior to the match and needed to show negative results on their phones before entering.
That will do it for me today. I can’t tell you how happy I am for Orlando’s season to officially be underway. Vamos Orlando!
Lion Links
Lion Links: 12/25/24
Orlando Pride make everyone’s ‘nice’ list, the USMNT’s new attitude, Boxing Day matches, and more.
Merry Christmas and happy Hanukkah, Mane Landers! One of the great things about soccer is that unlike other sports, there are matches being played somewhere nearly every day of the year. It truly is something for which I’m grateful. That also means there’s soccer news even on a big holiday, making my job here a bit easier. As such, let’s get to the links.
Orlando Pride Still Tops
It doesn’t matter what list you mention when it comes to women’s soccer, the Orlando Pride will be on it. If you follow women’s soccer — and I don’t know why you wouldn’t — 2024 brought plenty of gifts. Obviously, Marta lifting a pair of trophies was big news in the world of women’s soccer. The arrival of Barbra Banda and Temwa Chawinga to the NWSL was also pretty significant. Enjoy all of this as long as you can. I know I will.
USMNT Savageness
Weston McKennie is loving the attitude that Mauricio Pochettino is bringing to the USMNT. Some have felt that the U.S. has played too timidly before his arrival. Now, McKennie feels he’s bringing a savageness and a bit of South American attitude to the team. Previously, the USMNT was known for being physical if not technical. Perhaps McKennie and his generation can bring both to the table.
Premier League Holiday Cheer
Thursday is a big matchday in the English Premier League. If you’re lucky enough to not have to go to work, there will be plenty of Boxing Day matches to enjoy. Liverpool is top of the table this Christmas, in large part to the efforts of Mo Salah, who became the first player in Premier League history to reach double figures for goals and assists before Christmas.
Given it’s the holiday season, I’m certain that all the EPL clubs want something in their stockings. Of course, if you’re not adding pieces you might fall behind. There are players that each club could add to help in the pursuit of glory.
Rioters Sentenced
Five of the 60 people detained after riots outside the UEFA Europa League match between the Dutch side Ajax and Israel’s Maccabi Tel-Aviv in November have been sentenced by an Amsterdam District Court. The perpetrators’ punishment ran from community service to six months in prison. The altercation took place between pro-Palestinian demonstrators and Israeli football fans. Five people were sent to the hospital and 20 others sustained minor injuries. I truly wish this type of thing would stop at soccer matches — or anywhere for that matter.
Free Kicks
- Gotham FC has signed Ghanaian midfielder Stella Nyamekye from Dreamz Ladies FC of the Ghana Women’s Premier League.
- U.S. Soccer has updated its plan for youth soccer player registration. Leagues will be able to determine whether they want to use birth year or school year age depending on local need.
- Pep Guardiola has been impressive at Manchester City, but he’s still quite a bit behind Sir Alex Ferguson when it comes to Premier League titles. It’s not looking good for him to catch him either, with Manchester City losing nine of its last 12 matches.
- Could Mesa, AZ be in line for a MLS franchise? Outgoing Mesa Mayor John Giles has done everything he can to make it happen.
That will do it for today. If you celebrate Christmas, I hope you had a wonderful time giving and receiving gifts this morning. If Hanukkah is your thing, enjoy all eight days and nights. Kwanzaa? Enjoy every day from Thursday through Jan. 1. Festivus celebrators, you should already have done your feats of strength and airing of grievances. If you don’t celebrate any particular holidays, I hope you had a peaceful, relaxing morning. Just know that we here at The Mane Land are grateful for the gift of your readership.
Lion Links
Lion Links: 12/24/24
MLS transfer roundup, Americans in midweek action, NWSL news galore, and more.
Happy Tuesday and merry Christmas Eve, everyone! I hope you’re all having a good start to your week and have some fun stuff planned for the upcoming holidays.
Before we get started with today’s links, we here at The Mane Land want to give a special shout out to Joe (a.k.a. fldatadude) for signing up for a Homegrown Player-level membership on our Buy Me a Coffee page. By signing up at one of our three levels of support, our readers and podcast listeners can enjoy added benefits in addition to keeping our bills paid so we can continue doing what we do.
Now we do have plenty of items to get to today, so let’s get into today’s news.
MLS Transfer News Roundup
Several MLS teams have been busy at work in the transfer market, so let’s break down the recent moves. LAFC signed free agent forward Jeremy Ebobisse to a three-year deal with an additional option year, adding more firepower to an already strong squad. The Portland Timbers also got some business done via free agency, as they signed winger Ariel Lassiter. FC Dallas acquired forward Anderson Julio from Real Salt Lake, with defender Sam Junqua and up to $500,000 in General Allocation Money going to RSL in exchange. Finally, Lorenzo Insigne has teased on his Instagram that he will play another season for Toronto FC in 2025.
Americans in Midweek Action
There are a number of Americans playing this week, so get everything marked down and enjoy some festive footy. Thursday’s Boxing Day slate features Americans heavily, with Chris Richards, Matt Turner, and Crystal Palace traveling to take on Tyler Adams and Bournemouth in Premier League play. Antonee Robinson and Fulham will play Chelsea that same day, while Brenden Aaronson and Leeds United face an unenviable trip to Stoke City to round things off on Thursday.
Keeping Up With NWSL Happenings
Let’s start our NWSL roundup with the San Diego Wave, which have reportedly hired Jonas Eidevall as their new head coach. The Swede most recently spent time coaching Arsenal and has reportedly been the Wave’s top choice for several weeks. We now move to the realm of fact, where Angel City FC has signed midfielder Macey Hodge to a two-year deal with an option for the 2027 season. Finally, expansion team BOS Nation FC agreed a lease with Boston Public Schools and the City of Boston that will allow the team to use White Stadium as its home ground starting in 2026.
European Transfer Rumor Mill
Europe’s club teams can’t do business quite yet, but rumors are flying thick and fast with January just around the corner. First up, Manchester United is said to be exploring a deal to sign Victor Osimhen in January, particularly with Marcus Rashford indicating that he wants out of the club. Staying in the Premier League, Christopher Nkunku’s agent has reportedly offered the forward’s services to Barcelona, as he hasn’t been starting for the Blues and wants a larger role. Finally, Bayern Munich is said to be closely monitoring Borussia Dortmund’s Jamie Bynoe-Gittens, which would add him to a long list of Dortmund players snapped up by the Bundesliga giants.
Free Kicks
- Christian Pulisic sees the funny side when people refer to him as the “LeBron James of soccer.”
- FIFPRO has accused FIFA of failing to reach consensus and is against FIFA’s temporary transfer changes following the judgement in Lassana Diarra’s case.
- At a time when more and more emphasis is being placed on dead ball situations, explore what goes into making a good set piece.
That’s all I have for you this time around. I hope you all have a very merry Christmas Eve!
Lion Links
Lion Links: 12/23/24
Orlando City sells Facundo Torres to Palmeiras, Lions draft four players, a Premier League roundup, and more.
Hello, Mane Landers! I hope all is well with you down in Florida. My weekend has been busy working at Under Armour, with Christmas just two days away. I also covered high school hockey and went to a Chicago Bulls game. Besides that, I finally got all my Christmas shopping done. There is plenty to cover today, so let’s get to the links.
Orlando City Announces Facundo Torres Transfer to Palmeiras
Orlando City announced Friday that the Lions have sold winger Facundo Torres to Palmeiras for a club-record fee. Torres leaves Orlando as the Lions’ all-time goal-scoring leader. He had 123 appearances across all competitions, scored 47 goals, and added 25 assists in three seasons in Orlando. Torres made a big impact as a Lion, helping the club reach the playoffs the last three years and leading Orlando City to the 2022 U.S. Open Cup title.
The Lions will have an open Designated Player spot to fill during the off-season. Their home opener against the Philadelphia Union is less than two months away.
Lions Select Four Players in 2025 MLS SuperDraft
The Lions made four selections during the 2025 MLS SuperDraft on Friday. With the 27th overall pick, they chose midfielder Joran Gerbet out of Clemson. Gerbet had a solid collegiate career, recording 12 goals and 15 assists, and he led Clemson to the 2023 national championship title as well. In the second round, the Lions added another Clemson Tiger by selecting center back Titus Sandy, Jr. with the 46th overall pick. Sandy played in 48 matches, logging 2,520 minutes and was also part of the 2023 national championship team. Later in the same round, the Lions picked forward Collins Oduro out of Indiana. Oduro made 44 appearances for the Hoosiers, scoring eight goals to go with seven assists. The Lions concluded their 2025 MLS SuperDraft by selecting Marshall defender Takahiro Fujita in the third round with the 87th overall pick. MLSSoccer.com unveiled its draft grades for each club, and Orlando City received an A- as its grade.
NJ/NY Gotham FC Trades Lynn Williams to the Seattle Reign
A big trade went down in the National Women’s Soccer League as NJ/NY Gotham FC sent forward Lynn Williams and goalkeeper Cassie Miller to the Seattle Reign. In exchange, Gotham acquired midfielder Jaelin Howell, an international roster slot, and $70,000 in General Allocation Money (GAM). Williams spent two seasons with Gotham FC, recording 17 goals and seven assists. She has been capped 75 times for the U.S. Women’s National Team and was part of the squad that won a gold medal at the 2024 Olympics in Paris. Miller began the 2024 NWSL season as the number one goalkeeper for Gotham but was moved to a backup role once the club acquired Ann-Katrin Berger. Howell made eight appearances for the Reign this season after being acquired from Racing Louisville FC in August.
Premier League Weekend Roundup
As usual, there was plenty of action in the Premier League over the weekend. Manchester City fell 2-1 to Aston Villa Saturday and has lost nine out of its last 12 matches across all competitions. Arsenal cruised past Crystal Palace 5-1, Newcastle United defeated Ipswich Town 4-0 with Alexander Isak getting a hat trick, and Nottingham Forest won 2-0 against Brentford. West Ham United and Brighton fought to a 1-1 draw. On Sunday, Manchester United lost 3-0 at home to Bournemouth. Liverpool defeated Tottenham Hotspur 6-3 with Mohamed Salah scoring twice. Vitor Pereira won his first match as Wolverhampton’s manager, as his side beat Leicester City 3-0. The Everton and Chelsea and Fulham and Southampton matches ended in scoreless draws.
Free Kicks
- In an interview with Fast Company, former Orlando Pride striker Alex Morgan gave insight into her next chapter since retiring from pro soccer. Morgan discussed how she’s navigating through her post-playing career, investing in other sports, and continuing to support current and future generations of female athletes.
- Atlanta United named Ronny Deila as its next head coach. Deila previously coached Standard Liege, New York City FC, Celtic, and Club Brugge.
- FIFA and Netflix signed an agreement for exclusive broadcast rights in the United States for the 2027 and 2031 editions of the FIFA Women’s World Cup.
- Weston McKennie scored a goal in the first half to help Juventus snap its run of four consecutive draws in league play with a 2-1 win against Monza on Sunday.
- Jesus Navas played his final match for Sevilla as his side lost 4-2 to Real Madrid on Sunday. Navas will retire from professional soccer after his contract ends this month after a stellar 21-year career.
That will do it for me today, Mane Landers. Enjoy your Monday, and I’ll see you next time.
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