Lion Links
Lion Links: 1/21/23

Welcome to the weekend, Mane Landers. It is a somber morning around SBNation’s MLS blogs as a lot of writers wake up wondering what’s next for our community. If you’re anything like me, checking for TML tweets in your timeline or scrolling the blog is a daily habit and one that would be hard to let go. While the future is currently uncertain, we at The Mane Land will continue to dish up your Orlando soccer news and links here for as long as we can and the show will go on in some capacity. There is a lot to cover this morning, so let’s just get right to it — the links!
Orlando City Learns 2023 Leagues Cup Opponents
Orlando City is set to take on Santos Laguna from LIGA MX and the Houston Dynamo of MLS in Leagues Cup 2023. The tournament will take place from July 21 to Aug. 19 and is an official Concacaf competition in which all MLS and LIGA MX clubs will participate. The tournament will follow a World Cup-style format, including a group stage followed by knockout rounds. In total, 77 games will be hosted at MLS stadiums throughout the U.S. and Canada. The group stage will see each club play a minimum of two matches, with the top two teams from each group advancing based on group points.
The three teams have been drawn into Group South 2. The Lions qualified to host both of their group stage matches by finishing in the top 15 of MLS regular-season standings in 2022. Santos Laguna finished fourth among LIGA MX clubs in combined points between the Clausura 2022 and Apertura 2022. Houston Dynamo FC was sorted into the group after finishing 24th in MLS regular-season standings.
While we know who Orlando will be playing against, the actual Leagues Cup 2023 bracket and schedule will be announced in the coming months.
Orlando City Rookie Luis Grassow Retires
It has been a very short stint in professional soccer for Orlando City center back Luis Grassow. The 2023 MLS SuperDraft second-round pick has announced his retirement for personal reasons. The 6-foot-1 defender was signed to add depth behind starters Antonio Carlos and Robin Jansson and first-choice backup Rodrigo Schlegel. While Grassow likely would have spent the season developing with OCB, the club clearly could use emergency depth at the position that saw both Kyle Smith and Joao Moutinho both fill in on occasion. It is unknown what Grassow’s personal reasons were for leaving the game.
El Pulpo Reports for Duty
Orlando City’s stalwart between the posts has officially returned to training. Pedro Gallese has re-signed a new contact that will keep him in Orlando through 2024, and the star goalkeeper joined his Orlando City teammates Friday for his first on-field workout of preseason training. Orlando City’s Twitter shared a short clip of Gallese moving well and making a couple routine saves. The video also shows the goalkeeper sporting a new ice-white haircut. Like the old adage says, “out with the old, in with the new.”
I’m back 💜 https://t.co/kTHQY8hVyT
— Pedro Gallese Quiroz (@pedrogallese) January 20, 2023
MLS Eliminates Allocation Order
The Major League Soccer Board of Governors approved an update to the MLS Roster Rules and Regulations involving the elimination of the Allocation Ranking List. Effective immediately, any players previously on the Allocation Ranking List will be assigned through the MLS Discovery Process. In lieu of holding the first position in the 2023 Allocation Ranking Order, St. Louis City SC has been provided the opportunity to retain the right of first refusal over one player of the club’s choosing who was on the Allocation Ranking List at the time of its dissolution.
This impacts the San Jose Earthquakes' pursuit of Augsburg midfielder Carlos Gruezo. I'm told talks remain ongoing, but no deal is finalized just yet.
Gruezo was on the Allocation Order. Don't know how STL's "first right of refusal" could impact the situation (if at all). https://t.co/hltRPoL0Hi
— Tom Bogert (@tombogert) January 20, 2023
Future players transferred out of MLS will become discoverable one week from when the player’s International Transfer Certificate is permanently transferred, and the league has notified all clubs.
Sanford-Based Seminole Ice Coming to WPSL in 2023
The Women’s Premier Soccer League announced that Seminole Ice will compete in 2023 as the league’s latest expansion side. The Ice will serve as the official WPSL side for the Seminole Soccer Club, which has been a staple of youth soccer in Florida since 1981. The club consists of over 2,000 players and encompasses a full spectrum of soccer programs ranging from youth recreational systems to competitive programs with its junior and senior academies.
“We are thrilled to be a part of the WPSL, the pinnacle platform for advancing player development in the United States at the amateur level,” Paul Shaw, Orlando City Soccer School Seminole and Seminole Ice general manager, said. “We now have the complete path from youth level to the professional level. The WPSL is an important step for the amateur pathway to allow our athletes to advance and continue player development before, during, and after their collegiate career. Seminole Ice’s goal is to deliver a full-service training model that helps more athletes compete at the highest levels.”
The club will base itself out of Seminole Soccer Complex. The 40-acre facility includes a 1,200-spectator stadium field that is expected to be the Seminole Ice’s home venue.
USWNT Sweeps New Zealand
The United States Women’s National Team completed a two-game sweep of road friendlies in New Zealand with a 5-0 win in Auckland on Friday night (our time). Whereas Tuesday night’s match was a sloppy and frustrating affair, the Yanks made things easy on themselves in the rematch. Rose Lavelle bagged a brace and the U.S. also got goals from Ashley Hatch, Mallory Swanson, and Taylor Kornieck. Alex Morgan was supposed to start but she was a late scratch due to muscle tightness.
Brian McBride Out as USMNT General Manager
Brian McBride became the general manager of the USMNT in 2020, but according to a report by ESPN’s Sam Borden, McBride will not return as the team’s GM. This is another change to the USMNT following its 2022 World Cup campaign. Currently, the review of USMNT Head Coach Gregg Berhalter continues while he remains under investigation for a 1991 domestic violence incident. Earnie Stewart will now be responsible for overseeing the review of Berhalter’s performance, the USMNT program at large, and for hiring the next coach to lead the program. Anthony Hudson is currently leading the team during its January Camp, but it is unclear who will coach or be the general manager for the team moving forward.
Free Kicks
- Former Orlando City forward Benji Michel added his name to the scoresheet in the 78th minute against Portimonense on Friday — his first goal for his new club. The goal initially was ruled offside but was quickly overturned after video review.
- Former Orlando City midfielder Uri Rosell has been waived by Sporting Kansas City. Rosell made 20 appearances for Sporting in all competitions last season.
- Inter Miami has exercised the permanent transfer option of forward Leonardo Campana from English Premier League side Wolverhampton Wanderers through the 2025 MLS season with a club option for 2026. He will occupy a Young Designated slot.
- The Seattle Sounders unveiled the club’s third-ever kit sponsor, Providence, which will focus on youth mental health.
- FC Cincinnati has signed 18-year-old Homegrown goalkeeper Paul Walters through the 2026 MLS season with an option for 2027.
- Chelsea has completed the signing of winger Noni Madueke from PSV Eindhoven.
- Arsenal has finalized the signing of winger Leandro Trossard from Brighton.
- The Mexican national team’s usage of Alejandro Zendejas on five different occasions has led to the federation being punished by FIFA, with penalties such as forfeiting a pair of friendlies, a $10,900 fine, and forfeiting three U-23 matches in which Zendejas featured in.
- Real Madrid has drawn Atletico de Madrid in the Copa del Rey quarterfinals.
- The Federal Court of Appeal has declared a 15-point penalty to Juventus. All of this stems from the FIGC’s decision to appeal the verdict that was handed down last spring involving the plusvalenza investigation.
- Former Brazil international Dani Alves was charged with sexual assault and ordered to be held without bail.
- U.S. Soccer has announced that Ali Hall and Nico Perea were named the 2022 U.S. Soccer Beach Female and Male Players of the Year. This is the second consecutive year for the players to earn the honors.
That’s a lot of content out there for your scrolling needs today. I wish you all a restful and soccer-filled viewing weekend. It sure does feel extra good to see all the training videos of the boys in purple back out on the grounds lately. I’m really getting pumped up for the new season. Vamos Orlando!
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.

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.
Free Kicks
- Enjoy this intriguing article that shines a light on how MLS team administrators manage the chaos of the transfer window. I would devour a television series following these kinds of crises throughout the season.
- St. Petersburg is exploring demolishing Al Lang Stadium, the home of the Tampa Bay Rowdies, to make room for an amphitheater. The proposed demolition would take place after 2028, so we’ll see if this comes to pass.
- Jamie Vardy is leaving Leicester City, ending a 13-year tenure there that will be remembered for winning the English Premier League title in 2016.
- Here’s everything you need to know before the second legs of the UEFA Women’s Champions League semifinals on Sunday. Chelsea will take on Barcelona before Lyon and Arsenal square off, with both English clubs trailing after the first legs.
- Real Sociedad announced that Head Coach Imanol Alguacil will step down following this season. Alguacil was hired in December of 2018 and led the team to victory in the 2020 Copa del Rey.
- Manchester United will take part in the inaugural women’s seven-a-side tournament next month, joining Bayern Munich, Ajax, Benfica, and four other teams yet to be determined.
- NBA Hall of Fame point guard Jason Kidd has joined Everton’s ownership group. I too would be looking for anything to take my mind off of the Dallas Mavericks’ season.
- Former Pride players Sydney Leroux and Ali Riley announced a weekly podcast, with the first episode set for Monday.
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!
Lion Links
Lion Links: 4/24/25
Orlando Pride prepare for Angel City FC, MLS deadline day deals, OCB slips in power rankings, and more.

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.
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.
Free Kicks
- German legend Thomas Muller, who is set to leave Bayern Munich this summer, reportedly rejected an offer from FC Cincinnati and Fiorentina.
- Philadelphia Union midfielder Quinn Sullivan won MLS Goal of the Matchday for his volleyed strike against Atlanta. Seeing Atlanta get scored on really makes the goal that much sweeter to watch.
- Marcus Rashford is reportedly aiming to join a Champions League team after this season. The 27-year-old is on loan with Aston Villa from Manchester United and should be an interesting name to keep an eye on this summer.
- Arsenal’s 2-2 draw against Crystal Palace kept a few champagne bottles corked, as Liverpool would have won the league title if Arsenal lost. Liverpool now just needs a point when it faces Tottenham at home on Sunday.
- Real Madrid beat Getafe 1-0, but it came at the cost of injuries to both David Alaba and Eduardo Camavinga. The Spanish club may now have a crisis at left back ahead of Saturday’s Copa del Rey final against Barcelona.
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.
Lion Links
Lion Links: 4/23/25
The Orlando Pride drop, OCSC Academy awards, USMNT characters, and more.

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.
Free Kicks
- Orlando City dropped a spot to No. 12 in MLSsoccer.com’s power rankings. Three 0-0 draws in a row will do that.
- Michael Buxbaum is suing the U.S. Soccer Federation for $100 million because the USWNT didn’t try to win the SheBelieves Cup. I wasn’t happy with the result either, but this is the definition of frivolous.
- Nani and Ali Krieger are both participating in The Soccer Tournament on seven-on-seven soccer teams. The matchups for the $1 million tournament have been set.
- Speaking of Krieger, she is settling in at her new gig at ESPN as an analyst for NWSL matches and co-host of “FutbolW.”
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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