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: 5/30/25
Orlando City players called up, Orlando Pride sign Simone Jackson, USWNT gets ready to play China, and more.

Happy Friday! It’s been a bit of a brutal week, but we’ve made it through. Our reward is an exciting weekend of soccer to enjoy to close out the month. I’ll be spending most of the weekend working, but it should still be a nice next few days. Let’s dive right into today’s links from around the soccer world.
Lions Called Up For International Duty
Orlando City goalkeeper Pedro Gallese was predictably called up for Peru’s CONMEBOL World Cup qualifiers. Peru is ninth in the standings and will take on Colombia June 6 before hosting Ecuador on June 10.
Defender David Brekalo was called up by Slovenian for a pair of friendlies against Luxembourg and Bosnia and Herzegovina. These matches will help prepare Slovenia for World Cup qualifying this fall against Sweden, Switzerland, and Kosovo.
A few Young Lions are also heading to Europe for the UEFA Friendship Cup in Switzerland. The U.S. will represent Concacaf at the U-18 tournament, and OCB players Justin Ellis, Colin Guske, and Jackson Platts were called up for it.
Orlando Pride Sign Simone Jackson
The Orlando Pride signed forward Simone Jackson to a contract through the 2028 season. Jackson played at the University of Southern California for four years, recording 22 goals and 13 assists in 75 games, and trained with the Pride during the preseason. Internationally, she’s represented the U.S. at various youth levels and scored a goal in the 2022 FIFA U-20 Women’s World Cup. The 22-year-old gives Orlando some helpful depth up front and can develop her game learning from some of the best attackers in the sport as well.
USWNT Prepares For Friendly Against China
The United States Women’s National Team will take on China Saturday at Allianz Field in St. Paul, MN in the first of two friendlies during this international window. Orlando Pride defenders Emily Sams and Kerry Abello were both called up to join a young roster as the team builds a foundation before the 2027 Women’s World Cup. Goalkeeper will continue to be a position to watch, as opportunity knocks for Phallon Tullis-Joyce, Mandy McGlynn, and Claudia Dickey to stake a claim as the team’s starter. Following this match, the USWNT will take on Jamaica in St. Louis on Tuesday before a pair of friendlies against Ireland later in June.
Denver’s NWSL Team Hires First General Manager
Denver’s NWSL team hired Curt Johnson to serve as the club’s first general manager. He will have the opportunity to build the team’s roster and staff from the ground up before the team takes the field as an expansion side in 2026. Johnson left the North Carolina Courage in December and was the chief soccer officer when the club dominated the league in 2018 and 2019. It looks like a solid hire in my opinion and I’m interested to see what kind of team he puts together in Denver.
Free Kicks
- Racing Louisville forward Kayla Fischer was suspended for an additional two games for pulling Madison Hammond down to the ground by her hair. As a result, she’ll miss Louisville’s game against the Pride on June 20.
- Washington Spirit Head Coach Jonatan Giraldez is reportedly in talks to manage OL Lyonnes.
- The Independent Review Panel rescinded the second yellow card Chicago Fire midfielder Dje D’Avilla received on May 25, meaning he’ll be available for the Fire’s game against Orlando on Saturday.
- AC Milan fired Sergio Conceicao after finishing eighth in the Serie A standings and losing in the Italian Cup final. The club has reportedly reached an agreement with Massimiliano Allegri for him to take over as manager.
- Angel Di Maria will return to his boyhood club of Rosario Central in Argentina’s top flight. The 37-year-old started his career at Rosario in 2005. He’ll still play for Benfica in the Club World Cup this summer.
That’s all I have for you today. I hope you all have a fantastic Friday and rest of your weekend!
Lion Links
Lion Links: 5/29/25
Orlando City loses rivalry game, MLS All-Star voting opens, Antonee Robinson undergoes knee surgery, and more.

Good morning, Mane Landers. The bad news is that Orlando City lost last night. There’s not much good news, unless you count how I probably lost some weight pacing around my apartment for a few hours annoyed at how the game went. But today is a new day, and with it comes the fact that there’s no soccer to fret over. Before we dive in, please join us in wishing Orlando Pride Head Coach and former Lion Seb Hines a happy birthday! OK, let’s get to the links!
Orlando City Falls in Atlanta
The Lions went on the road and lost 3-2 to Atlanta United in a frustrating result that snapped the team’s 12-game unbeaten streak in league play. A solid first half by the Lions was spoiled by a red card to Cesar Araujo late in the second, with Atlanta scoring twice while the Lions were a man down. Head Coach Oscar Pareja was sent off as well, and Orlando was deprived of a great chance to move up in the standings. Orlando will have to shake this off or use it as motivation as it gets set to host the Chicago Fire on Saturday. A much-needed break in the schedule is awaiting the Lions after that match following a busy May.
MLS All-Star Voting Begins
The voting for who will play in this year’s MLS All-Star Game is underway, and a few Lions may have a shot at being selected. Right back Alex Freeman’s case to be an All-Star is backed by statistics, as he’s done well creating chances for others and has three goals himself during his breakout season. Former MLS player Dax McCarty has Freeman on his list of players who deserve selection this year, along with midfielder Martin Ojeda. The 26-year-old Argentine’s eight goals so far are already twice as many goals as he had last season and he’s right up there with some of the league’s best playmakers. McCarty also gave honorable mentions to goalkeeper Pedro Gallese and winger Marco Pasalic. Voting will last through June 11 and the All-Star Game is set to take place on July 23 against Liga MX’s All-Stars in Austin.
Antonee Robinson Undergoes Surgery
Fulham announced that American left back Antonee Robinson underwent successful knee surgery and is expected to be ready for the English club’s next season. The 27-year-old started in 35 of Fulham’s 38 games this past season and did not take part in the Concacaf Nations League. He’ll miss out on this summer’s Gold Cup, but hopefully he has a smooth recovery and benefits from some time off the field before things start up again in Europe.
Chelsea Wins Europa Conference League
Chelsea beat Real Betis 4-1 to win the Europa Conference League, becoming the first club to win all five of UEFA’s men’s club competitions. Real Betis scored first, but Chelsea mounted a comeback and scored four goals in the second half to win. Cole Palmer had a pair of assists to spark the turnaround and Enzo Fernandez had a goal and an assist. It’s a brutal end to Real Betis’ tournament as its wait for its first major trophy continues. The Spanish club is at least bound for the Europa League regardless after placing sixth in the La Liga standings.
Free Kicks
- Chicago Fire goalkeeper Chris Brady was called up by the USMNT to replace Patrick Schulte, who is dealing with an oblique injury. Brady joins a crowded goalkeeping unit that includes Matt Turner, Zack Steffen, and Matt Freese.
- Welcome to Wrexham was renewed for a fifth season, and only time will tell if another happy ending is in store for the Welsh club when it plays in the EFL Championship.
- Saudi Arabian club Al Hilal is reportedly interested in signing Victor Osimhen from Napoli ahead of the Club World Cup.
- Lamine Yamal signed a contract extension with Barcelona through 2031. The 17-year-old has already made 106 appearances for the club and led La Liga with 13 assists this season.
That’s all I have for you today. This month of ups and downs as an Orlando soccer fan is almost over and there’s some international soccer to obsess over on the horizon. Have a wonderful Thursday!
Lion Links
Lion Links: 5/28/25
Orlando City set to face Atlanta, Banda and Sams recognized, USMNT news, and more.

Welcome to Wednesday, Mane Landers. It is match day against the rivals from Georgia. Lions against…a common clothing pattern? Needless to say, I’m always ready for a rivalry match, and tonight is no exception. Orlando City is in a good run of form, hopefully that holds true in Atlanta. For now, let’s get to the links.
Orlando City Heads North
Orlando City takes on rival Atlanta United tonight in Mercedes-Benz Stadium. It’s a place where a lot of people can watch soccer played on turf, making it a sub-standard venue. Just in case you are wondering, here is what the opposition feels Atlanta needs to do to win at home. The Lions climbed up to third in MLSsoccer.com’s Power Rankings following the win over the Portland Timbers. We will have your match preview later today, and you can follow The Mane Land Bluesky account for match updates.
Banda and Sams Recognized
A first-half hat trick from Barbra Banda was enough to earn her a spot on the NWSL Team of the Week at CBS.com. Emily Sams also made the Best XI. In fact, there is still time to vote for Banda for NWSL Player of the Week for the aforementioned hat trick performance. You know what to do.
Orlando Pride Power
The Orlando Pride victory over the Utah Royals wasn’t a marquee matchup, but it still garnered plenty of attention. As such, the Pride held onto the third spot in the All for XI Power Rankings. The club was also third in the Goal.com Power Rankings heading into the international break. You know what I think about power rankings, but I’ll accept recognition for my club when it is presented.
Freeman and the USMNT
It didn’t take long after Orlando City defender Alex Freeman received an undervalued offer from Serie A club Parma for the rumors to start up. Freeman’s services are reportedly wanted by teams being promoted to the English Premier League. Perhaps this is a good time for Luiz Muzzi to sign the young defender to a new contract?
Several Americans made waves in Europe, with excellent performances last season from Christian Pulisic, Brenden Aaronson, Antonee Robinson, and others. Johnny Cardoso and Real Betis face Chelsea in the Europa Conference League final today at 3 p.m.
Free Kicks
- Goalkeeper Mary Earps announced her retirement from international football, meaning the Orlando Pride’s Anna Moorhouse will potentially have more opportunity for minutes.
- Kansas City Current owners Angie and Chris Long have acquired Danish club HB Køge. Good for them. I’m very content with the Wilfs focusing their attention on their Orlando clubs.
- Orlando City won’t have to face Brian Gutiérrez in the Chicago Fire FC match, as he will be serving a red card suspension. He was also fined for violent conduct in the match against New York City FC.
- St. Louis City SC parted ways with head coach Olof Mellberg after only 15 matches. St Louis City 2 coach David Critchley will take over as interim head coach.
- LAFC’s Carlos Vela announced his retirement from professional football, though he will remain with LAFC as the club’s first Black & Gold Ambassador.
- Wrexham is reportedly interested in CF Montreal striker Sunusi Ibrahim as the club heads into the EFL Championship.
- If I’m being honest, I don’t much care which Italian club the Pope supports, but I’m certain it’s a big deal in Vatican City. Besides, he’s probably all in for Chicago Fire FC. Oh well.
That will do it for today. Make sure you check back later as we prepare you for tonight’s match. Vamos Orlando!
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