National team news roundup
Conversation continues to spin regarding the future after the United State’s disappointing loss in Trinidad & Tobago last week. From across the pond, coaches from the European game such as Sam Allardyce and Laurent Blanc indicated they might be keen on a move stateside to coach the USMNT. Rumors also surfaced today that Landon Donovan may run for President of the US Soccer Federation in the election cycle starting this year. Former captain Claudio Reyna joined the conversation this week, voicing his belief of a culture of arrogance within American soccer at all levels.
The #USMNT will travel abroad to face 3rd-ranked Portugal: https://t.co/3EkhGBUnp2 pic.twitter.com/noZp3Vw4Li
— U.S. Soccer Men's National Team (@USMNT) October 16, 2017
We may well see the beginning of the national team’s future makeup next month when the US travel to Portugal for a friendly match on November 14. Analysts are predicting a mix of both new and familiar faces. Might we see Minnesota United’s Christian Ramirez perhaps receive an opportunity to don the stars and stripes? MLSsoccer.com’s Matthew Doyle and ESPNFC.com’s Jeff Carlisle both seem to think this might be the time.
Loons in brief
MNUFC head coach Adrian Heath has been nominated for MLS Coach of the Year. The award is voted on by players, technical staff members, and select media members. Three finalists will be announced later this month on October 31.
Forward Abu Danladi has put together an impressive résumé for his Rookie of the Year candidacy, leading all rookies with eight goals this season including four match-winners.
While the Loons were in California this week training at Westmont College, forward Christian Ramirez hung out after training with a few players on the local university men’s team.
Movin' Forward
s/o to @WestmontFutbol for hosting the fellas today!#SJvMIN | #MNUFC pic.twitter.com/hyuCaGqsrU
— Minnesota United FC (@MNUFC) October 17, 2017
Good to have you back on campus, @Chris_Ramirez17. Thanks for taking the time to talk with some of the Westmont boys after training. #GSAC pic.twitter.com/2PsClnLzgB
— Westmont Men’s Soccer (@WestmontFutbol) October 18, 2017
News bits
- Duluth FC published a statement on their club’s website with their reactions to last week’s disappointing result of the US missing out on next year’s World Cup in Russia.
- Newly announced NASL side in San Diego released their new logo and team name. No, it is not a reference to Anchorman.
- News is beginning to surface that Atlanta will host the 2018 MLS All-Star game.
- What if all the shots in MLS this year that bounced off the goalposts instead went in?
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