Lion Links: 8/20/24

Happy Tuesday, everyone! This week sees the Orlando Pride and Orlando City back in action, while Orlando City B will try to extend a three-game unbeaten streak. Before we get to today’s links, let’s all wish a happy birthday to Orlando City Assistant Coach Martin Perelman!

Amanda Allen Called Up

The Orlando Pride’s Amanda Allen has been called up to represent Canada for the upcoming U-20 Women’s World Cup. The 19-year-old has made eight appearances this season, tallying one assist. Allen became the youngest player to appear for the Pride when she made her debut on May 6, 2023, at 18 years, two months, and 15 days of age. Canada’s first match of the tournament will be against Brazil on Aug. 31, and we wish Allen the best of luck!

USMNT Announces Friendly Against Mexico

The United States Men’s National Team will play a friendly against Mexico on Oct. 15 in Guadalajara. Something noteworthy about this match is that it will be the first friendly game between the two teams to take place in Mexico since 2012. The game will be the fourth and final match that the USMNT will play in the fall, and the only one not taking place stateside. The other USMNT friendlies will be against Canada on Sept. 7 in Kansas City, New Zealand on Sept 10. in Cincinnati, and Panama on Oct. 12 in Austin.

Americans in Midweek Action

With European leagues back in the swing of things, there are several American players who will be competing this week, so make sure you have everything marked on your calendar. Johnny Cardoso and Real Betis face off against Ukrainian club Kryvbas in Europa Conference League qualifying on Thursday. On Friday, Joe Scally and Borussia Monchengladbach kick off the Bundesliga season against reigning champion Bayer Leverkusen.

European Transfer Happenings

The summer transfer window is still open in Europe, which means a number of teams have their eyes on adding to their rosters before time runs out. We start with Chelsea, which has reportedly agreed to a deal with Atletico Madrid to sign Joao Felix, with Conor Gallagher moving the other way. Elsewhere in the Premier League, Mexican forward Santiago Giminez is reportedly in talks to join Nottingham Forest. Finally, Manchester City is reportedly interested in signing former player Ilkay Gundogan from Barcelona, which is said to be looking at selling players to help comply with La Liga’s financial regulations.

Free Kicks

• The Colorado Rapids have sold defender Moise Bombito to Nice in a deal worth a reported $7.7 million, and $10.7 million after add-ons. That transfer fee would be a club record and also a league record for the sale of a center back.
• Racing Louisville has traded captain Jaelin Howell and $50,000 in Allocation Money to the Seattle Reign in exchange for Bethany Balcer.
• Thierry Henry has resigned from his role as the manager of France’s youth teams after leading his side to the silver medal at the Paris Olympics.

That’s all I’ve got for you today. Vamos Orlando!