Lion Links: 9/1/26

Good morning, everyone. It was a mixed bag for Orlando’s three soccer teams, as they combined to go 1-1-1 and take four of the nine available points on offer. All three teams will be back in action this weekend, and hopefully the defenses will be stingier than they were last time out. We’ve got plenty to talk about this morning, so let’s get into the links.

Orlando Pride Make Coaching Change

The Orlando Pride announced on Monday afternoon that the club has parted ways with both head coach Seb Hines and goalkeeper coach Paul Crichton. Assistant Coach Yolanda Thomas has been named interim head coach. Hines led the team to a historic double-winning season in 2024, as the club captured the NWSL Shield and NWSL Championship. Following a fourth-place finish and semifinal exit in 2025, the team has struggled this year for a number of reasons, and is currently five points below the playoff line in 12th place.

Lions Earn Recognition

While Orlando’s result on Saturday was a frustrating one, two Lions have earned some props for the part they played in rescuing a point on the road. First up is Antoine Griezmann, who was named to the starting XI of the MLS Team of the Matchday. The Frenchman bagged a goal and a crucial stoppage time assist as he now has four goal contributions in his last two games. Tyrese Spicer’s game-tying goal in stoppage time off Griezmann’s stellar long pass has been named the Moment of the Matchday. That strike continued Spicer’s excellent post-World Cup form, as he repeatedly finds a way to contribute regardless of if he’s starting or coming off the bench. Congratulations to both players, and here’s hoping their good form continues!

Takeaways from Matchday 23

Major League Soccer’s 23rd matchday is in the books, and there are plenty of lessons to be learned from the weekend’s action. Allan Saint-Maximin bagged his first goal for Charlotte FC and so far he’s looked lively and involved for his new team, which is riding a four-game unbeaten streak. Dejan Joveljic continues to score for fun regardless of who he’s playing for, as he marked his debut for the Seattle Sounders with a brace. The Sounders couldn’t hold onto all three points and had to settle for one, but he should help them in terms of firepower. Finally, the New England Revolution are clicking nicely, and had very little trouble in brushing aside the Columbus Crew on the road. Matt Turner is playing well, Carles Gil is still doing his thing, and the Revs are up to fourth in the East.

Recapping Recent Transfers

The transfer deadline for many European leagues is later today, and that means the market has been moving at the speed of light. We start with American Folarin Balogun, who will reportedly be joining Everton for a deal that could rise as high as $54 million with add-ons and incentives. Staying in the Premier League, Tottenham Hotspur is said to be interested in signing Mykhailo Mudryk and Tosin Adarabioyo from Chelsea. St Louis City SC is reportedly signing American striker Damion Downs on loan from Southampton. Real Salt Lake is reportedly signing Taylor Booth from FC Twente.

Finally, Stoke City is reportedly finishing up a deal to sign Jack McGlynn from the Houston Dynamo.

Free Kicks

• Orlando City rose one spot to no. 16 in ESPN.com’s MLS power rankings.
• Lionel Messi has announced his retirement from international soccer.
• Joshua Kushner says he regrets his participation in the plan to sell stakes in the World Cup to private investors.

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