Lion Links
Lion Links: 1/5/22

Hello, Mane Landers. I hope the new year is starting off well for you down in Florida. It’s been really cold up here in Chicago but I made it through the first winter storm of the year up here. There is plenty of soccer news to get to today so let’s get right to the links.
MLS Teams Continue Making Moves
While Orlando City hasn’t signed a new player yet, many players are on the move this MLS off-season. Inter Miami will look fairly different next season as Rodolfo Pizarro was loaned to CF Monterrey in Liga MX with an option to buy and reports surfaced that midfielder Blaise Matuidi won’t be with the club in 2022. The club also sent $100,000 in General Allocation Money to LAFC in exchange for 20-year-old midfielder Bryce Duke.
Nashville SC made a splash by signing veteran midfielder Sean Davis as a free agent, while FC Cincinnati added forward Dominique Badji. Rangers FC is reportedly close to adding James Sands from New York City FC on an 18-month loan. Minnesota United signed forward Bongokuhle Hlongwane from South African club Maritzburg United FC to a U-22 Initiative deal. Also, Real Salt Lake is reportedly close to a deal for former New England Revolution midfielder Scott Caldwell.
MLS Mock Draft Sees Orlando Choose Forward
Unless a trade takes place, Orlando City will make three selections when the MLS SuperDraft takes place on Jan. 11. Top Drawer Soccer unveiled a mock draft on how the first round could play out, with Orlando choosing Florida Gulf Coast University forward O’Vante Mullings with the 18th pick. Selecting a forward would make sense for an Orlando offense that will be without the services of Nani, Daryl Dike, and Chris Mueller in 2022. Other players in the mock draft who could be good fits for Orlando include Air Force forward Tristan Trager, 6-foot-4 central defender Ryan Sailor, and left back Charlie Ostrem.
The Lions have done well finding talent through the draft in the past, selecting players such as Cyle Larin, Mueller, and Dike over the years. Orlando has the 18th pick in all three rounds of the draft and it will be interesting to see if the club trades up for an earlier pick.
Analyzing Ricardo Pepi’s Move to Germany
I think it’s fair to say it was surprising to see FC Dallas forward Ricardo Pepi transfer to FC Augsburg, which is just a point above the relegation zone in the Bundesliga. Augsburg paid $20 million to acquire the 18-year-old with hopes he can solve the team’s scoring woes. Pepi had a stellar performance last year, scoring 13 goals in 31 appearances for FC Dallas while also getting called up to the USMNT for World Cup qualifying. He has experience training in Germany after a three-week trial with Bayern Munich last year and has studied Bundesliga strikers Robert Lewandowski and Erling Haaland. Pepi can be reckless with the ball at his feet at times, but is a promising attacker with a strong work ethic and great finishing skills. Joining Augsburg will give Pepi significant playing time, although there will be pressure to perform as the club fights to avoid relegation.
Carlos Cordeiro May Run for USSF Presidency
According to U.S. Soccer Federation sources that spoke with ESPN, former USSF president Carlos Cordeiro is planning on running to become president once more. Cordeiro resigned as president two years ago amid backlash related to the equal pay lawsuit made by members of the United States Women’s National Team. Cindy Parlow Cone took over as president following his resignation and ran unopposed in last year’s election. She will be running for re-election again this March to continue serving as USSF president with the 2026 World Cup approaching.
Free Kicks
- Fabrizio Romano expects Toronto FC’s move for Napoli striker Lorenzo Insigne to be made official soon.
Lorenzo Insigne has signed his five year and half contract as new Toronto FC player. Deal sealed and completed in Rome together with his agent. It’s done, no way back. 🔴🇨🇦 #TorontoFC
Official statement expected soon. Lorenzo will arrive in Toronto in July with his family. #MLS pic.twitter.com/36HGWZm8OJ
— Fabrizio Romano (@FabrizioRomano) January 4, 2022
- Romelu Lukaku apologized to Chelsea fans after expressing his frustration over playing time with the club. After speaking with manager Thomas Tuchel, Lukaku plans to stay with the Blues.
- Liverpool requested that its Carabao Cup semifinal match against Arsenal be postponed due to a COVID outbreak at the club’s training complex.
- Denmark international Christian Eriksen said his goal is to play in the 2022 FIFA World Cup in Qatar while evaluating his club options to return to play in the future.
- Watford released Senegalese winger Ismaila Sarr for the Africa Cup of Nations after initially refusing to do so.
That will do it for me, Mane Landers. Enjoy your Wednesday and I’ll see you next time.
Lion Links
Lion Links: 7/18/25
Justin Ellis named U-19 MLS NEXT MVP, Orlando Pride announce historic apparel collection, landing spots for USMNT players, and more.

Happy Friday! It’s been a long week, but the weekend is nearly upon us. My parents are in town on vacation, so I’m looking forward to having an excuse to go out to brunch. It should be a nice few days with plenty of soccer to keep us all entertained. Let’s get to the links!
Justin Ellis Named U-19 MLS NEXT MVP
Orlando City B forward Justin Ellis was named MLS NEXT MVP for the U-19 age group after a stellar season that included 18 goals for the Lions. The 18-year-old was the top scorer of this year’s Generation Adidas Cup to help his team lift the trophy and helped the team reach the semifinals of the MLS NEXT Cup. In MLS NEXT Pro action, Ellis has recorded seven goals and three assists in 11 appearances for OCB. It’s quite the accolade for the forward and hopefully he can continue to make strides in his development to make an impact with the first team.
Orlando Pride Announce Full-Team Apparel Collection
The Orlando Pride became the first NWSL club to offer a merchandise line featuring every player on the roster after announcing a new apparel collection. The Pride, in collaboration with apparel brand 500 Level, will offer over 500 player-specific items to form the largest player collection across the major U.S. sports leagues. As someone who is usually a fan of the unsung heroes when it comes to sports, I think it’s pretty great that fans are now able to get apparel representing their favorite Pride player no matter who that is.
Ideal Transfer Landing Spots for USMNT Players
ESPN took a stab at identifying the best fits for United States Men’s National Team players with transfer buzz following the Concacaf Gold Cup. Orlando City right back Alex Freeman was listed but could need a bit more time solidifying his game with the Lions before big clubs come knocking. Midfielder Diego Luna had a strong tournament with the U.S. this summer and could fit in well with Celta Vigo’s rebuilding plans. As for other intriguing things to keep an eye on, a move to MLS could give Giovanni Reyna the playing time he desperately needs; Ricardo Pepi may be best off staying at PSV Eindhoven; and Marseille may be just what the doctor ordered for Tim Weah.
England Comes Back to Reach Euro Semifinals
England secured its spot in the Women’s European Championship semifinals in dramatic fashion, advancing on penalties against Sweden after a 2-2 draw. A pair of goals in the first half by Sweden had the Scandinavian nation on top for most of the match, but Lucy Bronze scored in the 79th minute, before 19-year-old substitute Michelle Agyemang scored the equalizer in the 81st. The penalty shootout included nine misses, but the defending champs prevailed in the end. It’s a brutal way for Peter Gerhardsson’s tenure as Sweden’s head coach to come to a close. England will face Italy in the semifinals on Tuesday.
Free Kicks
- Alex Freeman will take part in this year’s MLS All-Star Skills Challenge and here’s everything you need to know before it takes place on Tuesday.
- Arsenal signed Canadian forward Olivia Smith from Liverpool for a reported record $1.34 million transfer fee. The 20-year-old was Liverpool’s Player of the Season after scoring nine goals in 25 appearances this past season.
- FC Cincinnati’s Evander was named MLS Player of the Matchday, forcing me to once again wonder what life would be like if he was playing in Orlando. The Brazilian had a brace in a 3-0 win over Inter Miami, furthering his case for MLS MVP.
- A 12-year ban of away fans in Argentina’s leagues will gradually be lifted, starting with Rosario Central’s match against Lanus on Saturday.
That’s all I have for you this time around. I hope you all have a fantastic Friday and rest of your weekend!
Lion Links
Lion Links: 7/17/25
Orlando City falls apart at home, Orlando Pride players in action abroad, Charlotte will host 2026 MLS All-Star Game, and more.

Sometimes the Cardiac Cats are fun to watch, and other times they really do just stomp your heart into pieces. We’re unfortunately in the aftermath of the latter after Orlando City’s rough defeat last night. The good news is that the Lions can’t lose today as well. Let’s jump right into today’s links.
Orlando City Beaten by New York City FC
The Lions’ summer struggles continued with a disappointing 2-1 loss at home to New York City FC. Robin Jansson scored his first goal of the season, but Orlando collapsed late at home yet again, suffering from an own goal and a winner from Alonso Martinez in stoppage time. Orlando City is now winless in its past four games and has not won at home since May 24. There’s not much time to shake off this loss, as the Lions are back in action on Saturday for a tough road match against the New England Revolution.
Keeping Up With the Pride Players Abroad
Marta came off the bench and provided a pair of assists in Brazil’s dominant 6-0 win over Bolivia in the Copa America Femenina’s group stage. Kerolin had a hat trick and the result keeps Brazil at the top of its group for the time being. The Brazilians will be back in action on Tuesday to face Paraguay.
The CAF Women’s Africa Cup of Nations quarterfinals kick off on Friday with a great matchup between Zambia and Nigeria. Orlando Pride forward Barbra Banda and Racheal Kundananji have each scored three goals this tournament and both were named to the Best XI of the group stage. Pride goalkeeper Anna Moorhouse likely won’t play, but England takes on Sweden today in the Women’s European Championship quarterfinals.
Charlotte Will Host 2026 MLS All-Star Game
MLS announced that Charlotte will serve as the host of the 2026 MLS All-Star Game, the 30th in the league’s history. Charlotte FC joined the league in 2022 and this will be the first time the event is held in Charlotte. It’s always nice to see a smaller market receive its day in the sun, and Charlotte has really embraced soccer over the years. But if Sir Minty doesn’t take part in the skills challenge next year, then what are we even doing?
D.C. United Hires Rene Weiler
Rene Weiler is officially the next head coach of D.C. United and will take over once he receives a U.S. work permit. The 51-year-old brings plenty of European experience to the nation’s capital and won the Swiss Cup with Servette FC last year. He replaces Troy Lesesne, who was fired by the club after its exit from the U.S. Open Cup earlier this month. It’s a new era for one of the league’s older clubs, and it will be interesting to see how aggressive D.C. will be to bring in talent during the upcoming transfer window.
Free Kicks
- Argentine midfielder Rodrigo De Paul has reportedly agreed to terms with Inter Miami and could be with the club in time for the Leagues Cup. He also reportedly won’t need to take up a Designated Player spot this year, because of course.
- Tierna Davidson signed a contract extension with NJ/NY Gotham FC that will keep her at the club through 2027.
- FC Dallas is reportedly finalizing a deal for Haitian winger Louicius Don Deedson, who recorded seven goals and nine assists for Odense BK in Denmark’s second division this past year.
- American midfielder Johnny Cardoso officially made the move to Atletico Madrid, joining the Spanish club on a five-year contract.
- Cristiani Girelli scored the late winner for Italy in a 2-1 victory against Norway to claim a spot in the Women’s European Championship semifinals. Girelli had a brace in the match, while Ada Hegerberg scored Norway’s lone goal.
- Real Madrid midfielder Jude Bellingham underwent surgery for a nagging shoulder injury and may miss the next two or three months.
- After an investigation into alleged match fixing, UEFA banned Montenegrin club Arsenal Tivat from European competitions for 10 years. Tivat player Nikola Celebic was banned from activities relating to soccer for life, along with the club’s sporting director, Ranko Krgovic.
That’s all I have for you this time around, Mane Landers. Stay hydrated and have a great Thursday!
Lion Links
Lion Links: 7/16/25
Orlando City faces NYCFC, Marco Pasalic is an All-Star, OCB’s Jhon Solis transfers out, and more.

Welcome to Wednesday, Mane Landers. It’s matchday in the City Beautiful as Orlando City hosts New York City FC in a crucial Eastern Conference bout. I know I’m in the minority, but I love Wednesday matches since I’m off work on Thursdays. That being said, if you have the opportunity, you should definitely head down to the match tonight. For now, let’s get to the links.
Lions Host the Pigeons
Orlando City welcomes New York City FC to Inter&Co Stadium tonight. The midweek match comes after a short turnaround following Saturday’s draw against CF Montreal. The Lions will need to get the offense back in gear to take all three points from NYCFC. Our own Ben Miller joined Hudson River Blue to answer questions for the opposition. Check back later today for our detailed preview of the match.
Pasalic is an All-Star
Marco Pasalic was named to the MLS All-Star squad by coach Nico Estévez. Pasalic joins Alex Freeman as the second Lion to represent Orlando City in the match. The MLS All-Stars will play a team of All-Stars from Liga MX. Pasalic is tied with Martin Ojeda for the team’s goal-scoring lead with 10. He also has four assists for the Lions. Pasalic is a worthy addition to the MLS All-Star Team, but it does beg the question why Ojeda didn’t also get an invitation.
So Long, Solis
Orlando City B has transferred midfielder Jhon Solis to Fortaleza C.E.I.F. of Liga BetPlay Dimayor — Colombia’s top tier. Solis made 70 appearances for the Young Lions since joining prior to the 2023 season. As a native of Medellín, Colombia, the 26-year-old is returning to his home country to continue his career. Solis wasn’t able to make the jump to Orlando City’s first team, but he was a consistent starter for OCB.
U.S. National Team News
Fresh off his appearances in the Concacaf Gold Cup, Patrick Agyemang has been transferred from Charlotte FC to Derby County in the English Championship. In sadder news, Aaron Long is out for the season after having surgery to repair a ruptured left Achilles.
On the women’s side, USWNT coach Emma Hayes has great praise for Sam Coffey and her presence in the U.S. midfield.
Free Kicks
- Former Orlando Pride midfielder Taylor Flint (nee Kornieck) has signed a new contract with Racing Louisville through the 2028 season.
- Pasalic wasn’t the only player added to the MLS All-Star squad. Five other players were added to represent MLS.
- Bay FC has acquired Forward Onyeka Gamero from FC Barcelona B on a contract running through the 2028 season.
- Denver’s 2026 NWSL expansion team is reportedly close to signing Nick Cushing as the club’s first head coach from Manchester City Women.
- FIFA has announced the ticketing process for the 2026 World Cup. The tickets will be sold in phases due to expected high demand. I’m trying to figure out if I’ll be able to go see a match some when the time comes.
That will do it for today. Check back later as we prepare you for tonight’s match, and don’t forget to follow The Mane Land on Bluesky to get match updates. Vamos Orlando!
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