Lion Links
Lion Links: 11/3/21
Hello, Mane Landers. I hope everyone is doing well down in Florida. It’s been another busy week for me, but I’m hanging in there regardless. There is plenty to cover today, so let’s get to the links!
Orlando City Players Earn Recognition
Orlando center back Antonio Carlos was named to the MLS Team of the Week for his strong performance in the team’s 1-1 draw against Nashville SC. Carlos was a force in the air throughout the match to help limit Nashville’s chances. He joins notable players such as the LA Galaxy’s Javier “Chicharito” Hernandez, the Columbus Crew’s Lucas Zelarayan, and New York City FC’s Valentin Castellanos on this edition of Team of the Week. Orlando forward Daryl Dike didn’t make Team of the Week, but was noted as one of the league’s best young players this past week.
Orlando City goalkeeper Pedro Gallese was nominated for 2021 International Federation of Football History & Statistics Men’s World Best Goalkeeper. Gallese has done well in goal for both the Lions and Peru this year and was nominated alongside 19 of the other best goalkeepers in the world such as Gianluigi Donnarumma, Manuel Neuer, and Matt Turner.
Our #1 🐙 🇵🇪 @pedrogallese is a candidate for the 2021 IFFHS Men's World Best Goalkeeper 💪 Congrats, Pedro! pic.twitter.com/rs1QQ63TmQ
— Orlando City SC (@OrlandoCitySC) November 2, 2021
Decision Day Nears for the Lions
Orlando’s last game of the regular season is this Sunday against CF Montreal at 3:30 p.m. The game will take place in Canada and there will be watch parties throughout the community for supporters to enjoy drink specials and cheer on the Lions. Orlando is one of six teams fighting for the remaining three spots in the Eastern Conference playoffs and there will be plenty at stake on Decision Day.
But before Decision Day, there are important matches tonight. While the Lions aren’t in action, Orlando fans will want to keep an eye on tonight’s game between Montreal and the Houston Dynamo in Canada. Orlando will clinch a spot in the playoffs if Montreal doesn’t beat a Dynamo side that has yet to win on the road this season. The game between Atlanta United and the New York Red Bulls tonight will also be impactful as the winner would move ahead of Orlando in the standings.
USMNT Will Play Bosnia and Herzegovina in December
The United States Men’s National Team announced an upcoming friendly against Bosnia and Herzegovina on Dec. 18 at Dignity Health Sports Park in Carson, CA. With the game falling outside of an international window, it is expected for the roster to be composed of mostly MLS players. This will be the third meeting between these two sides, with the last match-up coming in 2018 when the two played to a scoreless draw. They also faced each other back in 2013 when Jozy Altidore scored a hat trick in a 4-3 win for the USMNT. This friendly will help the USMNT prepare for its Concacaf World Cup qualifiers in January against El Salvador, Canada, and Honduras.
UEFA Champions League Group Stage Continues
Paulo Dybala scored twice and had an assist as Juventus booked its ticket to the knockout stage in a 4-2 win over Zenit St. Petersburg. Bayern Munich also secured a spot in the next round by winning 5-2 against Benfica, with Robert Lewandowski netting a hat trick.
Manchester United went on the road to take on Atalanta and drew 2-2 thanks to a pair of goals from Cristiano Ronaldo. The Portuguese forward scored late in the first half and then again in the final moments of the match to keep United on top in Group F. In Spain, FC Barcelona won 1-0 against Dynamo Kyiv and can advance with a win against Benfica on Nov. 23. Christian Pulisic played 15 minutes in his return from injury as Chelsea secured a 1-0 victory against Malmo. In Group G, Brenden Aaronson and RB Salzburg fell 2-1 to Wolfsburg while Timothy Weah and Lille made a comeback to win 2-1 against Sevilla.
Today’s notable match-ups will see Liverpool take on Atletico Madrid, RB Leipzig host Paris St. Germain, and Dortmund face off with Ajax.
Free Kicks
- Orlando defender Ruan was fined an undisclosed amount for using abusive language towards officials after the match against Nashville.
- The Lions dropped four spots to 11th in the latest MLS power rankings following a loss to the Columbus Crew on the road and the draw with Nashville. In ESPN’s rankings, Orlando fell four spots to 15th.
- Enjoy this fantastic outfit from Alexandre Pato.
Let’s Walk 🦆 pic.twitter.com/cvJaUhgPN4
— PATO (@Pato) November 2, 2021
- Kevin Gilmore will step down as president and chief executive officer of CF Montreal.
- Former FIFA president Sepp Blatter and former UEFA president Michel Platini were charged with fraud by Swiss prosecutors and will face a trial at federal court.
- Antonio Conte will return to the English Premier League as Tottenham Hotspur’s new manager.
That will do it for me today, Mane Landers. Enjoy your Wednesday, take care of yourselves, and I’ll see you next time.
Lion Links
Lion Links: 1/8/25
Orlando City primed for moves, Emily Sams’ USWNT call-up, MLS transfer news, and more.
Welcome to Wednesday, Mane Landers. Was it cold enough for you this morning? I know in Tallahassee it was quite chilly, but I’m not complaining. Remember to bring in your plants unless you want to replace a bunch after they freeze. Despite the chill, there are still things going on in the Orlando soccer-sphere. Let’s get to the links.
Lions on the Hunt
I know everyone is wondering why news around potential Orlando City signings is so lacking, but that’s par for the course with this club. That being said, the nice sum of cash from the Facundo Torres deal means that the Lions have the resources to find the right high quality player (or players) to improve the squad. I know it’s frustrating that nothing has happened yet, but there’s still plenty of time for Luiz Muzzi and company to get some business done.
Pride Defender Emily Sams Called Up to USWNT Camp
The 2024 NWSL Defender of the Year has received another call-up by Emma Hayes to the USWNT’s January training camp in Los Angeles. Sams will be one of 26 players on the camp roster. Of note, Trinity Rodman, Sophia Smith, Mallory Swanson, and Rose Lavelle will not be in attendance as each is recovering from injuries or surgery. The list of defenders besides Sams includes Naomi Girma, Tierna Davidson, Emily Sonnet, and Jenna Nighswonger among others. We wish Sams good luck and a safe, healthy return.
Berman Wins Innovator of the Year
If you’re not familiar with Jessica Berman, you should take the time to do some research. Since taking over as NWSL Commissioner in the spring of 2022, the league has improved its visibility and made some sweeping changes — like eliminating the draft. As a result, Berman was named SI’s 2024 Innovator of the Year. Berman’s impact as commissioner mirrors Haley Carter’s impact with the Orlando Pride. The league was dealing with scandals, brought in Berman, and now things have improved. Sounds familiar doesn’t it?
MLS Signings and Transfers
Orlando City might not be making much news, but other MLS clubs are making moves. CF Montreal has acquired Giacomo Vrioni from the New England Revolution.
The Colorado Rapids have signed homegrown midfielder Sam Bassett through 2025 with options for 2026-2028. San Diego SC signed 29-year-old Argentinian defender Franco Negri after adding him during Stage 2 of the MLS Re-Entry Draft. The San Jose Earthquakes sent goalkeeper Emmanuel Ochoa to Liga MX side Cruz Azul. The New York Red Bulls will be adding Poland youth international Wiktor Bogacz from Polish second division 1 Liga club Miedz Legnica
Finally, Boca Juniors made a bid to sign Alan Velasco from FC Dallas.
Free Kicks
- Emma Hayes isn’t just focusing on the senior USWNT side. She is determined to develop the next generation of Under-23 players.
- The Washington Spirit have exercised the mutual 2028 option on Tara McKeown’s contract.
- Welsh club The New Saints are still waiting on the transfer fee for Brad Young after selling the player to Saudi Pro League team Al-Orobah. FIFA is looking into the matter.
- Speaking of FIFA, Bonita Mersiades is a FIFA whistleblower with the inside scoop on soccer’s governing body’s culture of bribery and corruption. I’m sure you’re totally surprised.
- San Diego Wave FC appointed Jonas Eidevall as the new head coach for the club. Eidevall was previously manager of Arsenal Women and joins on a three-year deal.
- Costa Rica has hired former Mexico coach Miguel Herrera as its new manager. You’ll be able to see him and the rest of the Costa Rican team later this month when they play the USMNT at Inter&Co Stadium.
- Several NWSL team stadiums are going green with sustainable initiatives and features. However, I’m a little skeptical of Shell Energy Stadium if I’m being honest.
- I am not a violent person by my nature, but I don’t know what I’ll do if this happens. Ugh. Musk is the opposite of the values of the city and people of Liverpool. We couldn’t publish my actual reaction.
That will do it for today. Stay warm out there.
Lion Links
Lion Links: 1/7/25
MLS transfer happenings, USMNT January camp roster announced, Christian Pulisic stars for AC Milan, and more.
Happy Tuesday, everyone! I returned to work after a nice little break for the holidays and frankly, I’m struggling. I don’t mind being back, it’s just difficult getting back into a routine after being away for so long. Alas, I’ll survive somehow. We have plenty to discuss in today’s American-heavy edition of Lion Links, so let’s get into the news.
MLS Transfer Happenings
There are a lot of MLS moves we need to get caught up on, starting with Austin FC’s signing of Brandon Vazquez as a Designated Player from CF Monterrey. Vazquez joins on a four-year deal after Austin sent $100,000 in General Allocation Money (GAM) to the San Diego Earthquakes to jump to the top of the league’s waiver order. We then move to the New England Revolution, which sent midfielder Emmanuel Boateng to San Diego FC in exchange for $200,000 in 2025 GAM. The Revs have also recalled midfielder Noel Buck from his loan with Southampton. The Chicago Fire have signed Danish winger Phillip Zinckernagel from Club Brugge, with his contract running through the end of the 2028 season. Finally, CF Montreal has reportedly traded $650,000 in GAM and an international roster spot to the LA Galaxy in exchange for center back Jalen Neal.
January Camp Roster Announced
The United States Men’s National Team has announced the 24-man roster for its annual January camp. The team will convene today in Ft. Lauderdale with a squad primarily made up of MLS players, as is usually the case. Zack Steffen is easily the most experienced of the four goalkeepers, with Patrick Schulte the only other one to be capped. Tim Ream, Miles Robinson, and Walker Zimmerman make up the veteran core of defenders, while none of the four midfielders have more than one cap to their name. Jesus Ferreira is the most seasoned of the seven forwards, with Brian White the only other one to have earned a cap.
Christian Pulisic Stars in Supercoppa Final
AC Milan erased a 2-0 second half deficit in the Italian Supercoppa final on Monday, roaring back to win the trophy with Christian Pulisic taking on a starring role. The American winger snuck into the box in the 80th minute and executed a great turn and finish to level the game at 2-2 in the 80th minute.
He then helped create Tammy Abraham’s game-winner, playing an outstanding ball to release Rafael Leao down the right wing, who squared it for Abraham to tap home and win new boss Sergio Conceicao his first trophy with the club after just two games.
Americans in Midweek Action
There are several other American players who will take part in games this week, so get them all marked down on your calendar so you don’t miss anything. We start on Wednesday, when Cameron Carter-Vickers, Auston Trusty, and Celtic will play host to Dundee United in Scottish Premier League action. Thursday sees Antonee Robinson and Fulham take on Watford in the third round of the FA Cup, and things wrap up on Friday with Cole Campbell, Giovanni Reyna, and Borussia Dortmund facing off against Bayer Leverkusen in Bundesliga action.
Free Kicks
- The NWSL has announced the competition calendar for the upcoming 2025 season.
- Barbra Banda, Marta, Emily Sams, and Anna Moorhouse have been nominated for the EA Sports FC 25 Team of the Year.
- The oldest living person in the world is now believed to be a soccer-loving nun from Brazil.
- Numerous fan groups have called for Joan Laporta to resign as president of Barcelona, following the team’s failures to register Dani Olmo and Pau Victor for the second half of the season.
That’s all I have for you this time around. I hope you all have a terrific Tuesday and rest of your week!
Lion Links
Lion Links: 1/6/25
Orlando City reportedly bids for Alejandro Zendejas, Antonee Robinson named U.S. Male Player of the Year, Americans abroad, and more.
Hello, Mane Landers! I hope all is well with you down in Florida. I’ve been busy working at Under Armour and Wrigley Field this past week, but I got a chance to watch some soccer over the weekend. There is plenty to cover today, so let’s get to the links.
Orlando City Transfer Bid for Alejandro Zendejas Rejected
Liga MX side Club America has reportedly rejected a bid from Orlando City for American winger Alejandro “Alex” Zendejas. Talks have stalled as Club America sorts out manager Andre Jardine’s future with the club, as he has been linked to Brazilian side Botafogo. Zendejas has four goals and five assists in 19 matches so far this season for Club America. Orlando City has an open Designated Player spot after the club sold Facundo Torres to Palmeiras last month. The Lions will reportedly prioritize other targets during the winter transfer window.
Antonee Robinson Named U.S. Soccer Male Player of the Year
On Sunday, Fulham and United States Men’s National Team defender Antonee Robinson was voted the 2024 U.S. Soccer Male Player of the Year. Robinson won 55% of the vote and was also a finalist for the award in 2022. He started 11 matches for the USMNT and had an assist in its 1-0 win against Jamaica in the Concacaf Nations League quarterfinals. Robinson had a solid year at Fulham, recording 10 assists in 37 matches, and won the club’s 2023-2024 Player of the Year award. Robinson beat out AS Monaco forward Folarin Balogun, PSV Eindhoven forward Ricardo Pepi, AC Milan winger Christian Pulisic, and Charlotte FC defender Tim Ream. He’s the first defender to win the award since Oguchi Onyewu won it in 2006.
Keeping Up With the Americans Abroad
We had another busy weekend featuring several Americans in action in Europe. Cristian Pulisic returned to AC Milan for Friday’s Italian Super Cup semifinal matchup against Juventus that also included Weston McKennie, Tim Weah, and Yunus Musah. Pulisic scored the equalizer from the penalty spot to tie the match in the second half, helping AC Milan overcome a 1-0 deficit to defeat Juventus 2-1 and book a spot in the Italian Super Cup final against Inter Milan later today. Gianluca Busio played a full 90 minutes for Venezia as his side fought to secure a 1-1 draw against Empoli in Serie A action. Auston Trusty scored his first goal for Celtic as his side defeated St. Mirren 3-0.
Premier League Weekend Roundup
There are plenty of results in the Premier League to catch you up on from the weekend. Former Lion goalkeeper Brandon Austin made his debut for Tottenham Hotspur. Unfortunately, his side fell to Newcastle United 2-1. Manchester City defeated West Ham United 4-1 to get back-to-back Premier League victories, Bournemouth defeated Everton 1-0, Aston Villa edged past Leicester City 2-1, and Brentford dominated Southampton with a 5-0 win. Crystal Palace and Chelsea battled to a 1-1 draw, while Brighton and Arsenal also played to a 1-1 draw. On Sunday, Raul Jimenez scored twice as Fulham fought back for a 2-2 draw against Ipswich Town. The Liverpool and Manchester United match also ended in a 2-2 draw. We have one Premier League matchup later today, as Wolverhampton faces Nottingham Forest.
Free Kicks
- The Houston Dash have hired former North Carolina Courage assistant coach Fabrice Gautrat as its next head coach. Fabrice is married to Orlando Pride midfielder Morgan Gautrat.
- The San Diego Wave and former Orlando Pride midfielder Emily van Egmond have reached a mutual agreement to part ways. She spent three seasons with the Wave, scoring two goals and adding two assists in 70 matches across all competitions.
- Charlotte FC is reportedly finalizing a deal to re-sign Pep Biel on a loan deal from Olympiakos.
- Toronto FC is reportedly trying to move forward Lorenzo Insigne before the 2025 MLS season begins.
- PSV Eindhoven has reportedly rejected an offer from Club America for American right back Richy Ledezma.
- Major League Soccer’s official match ball for the upcoming 2025 season features the league’s original colors.
That will do it for me today, Mane Landers. Enjoy your Monday, and I’ll see you next time.
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