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Every day MLS, the NWSL and the USL are suspended due to the coronavirus pandemic, Pro Soccer USA will provide the latest news and updates, examples of what the soccer community is doing to pass time and some recommendations for readers to keep busy while hunkering down at home.

The Latest

In accordance with the latest guidelines from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, which recommended mass gatherings of 50 or more people be postponed for eight weeks, Major League Soccer extended the suspension of its season.

MLS, which initially suspended the season for 30 days, has a new target return date of May 10.

In a statement Thursday, the league said it is still committed to playing a full 34-game season and is examining the possibility of MLS Cup being played in December.

“MLS remains focused on playing the entire 2020 season and is evaluating all options, including pushing back the end of the season and playing MLS Cup in December, as the league did prior to the 2019 season,” the statement read. “The league is also identifying other available dates. Throughout the process, MLS will continue to prioritize the safety of our fans, players, employees and partners and to coordinate with federal and local public health authorities as well as other sporting organizations.”

The announcement comes a day after the USL Championship and League One was postponed through at least May 10.

Concacaf, which had already postponed the Champions League and the Men’s Olympic Qualifiers for 30 days, has also delayed the Concacaf Women’s Under-17 Championship from April 18 to May 3 in Toluca, Mexico.

The confederation also moved the Concacaf Futsal Championship in Guatemala from May 1 to May 10.

“Both competitions require significant international travel for a number of our member associations and their teams and we have made this decision with their welfare in mind,” Concacaf said in a statement.

New York City FC became the second MLS team to have a staff member test positive for coronavirus. A member of the club’s sporting department is feeling well after displaying mild symptoms and is observing appropriate isolation protocols, according to a club statement.

“I would like to sincerely thank all those who have offered the club medical advice and support throughout this process. As a club, we are closely following all advice and taking all possible preventative measures,” NYCFC CEO Brad Sims said. “Thankfully, I am pleased to say that the individual affected is at home and is feeling better after only a short illness.”

Because NYCFC played Tigres UANL in a Concacaf Champions League quarterfinal game at Red Bull Arena, the New York Red Bulls consulted club medical officials since some staff members worked the game.

“In consultation with club medical officials, it has been determined that our staff working the match were at low risk for exposure, given the limited interaction with NYCFC personnel and the time between the match and beginning of symptoms,” the statement read. “We will continue to monitor and take all necessary precautions.”

A 34-year-old LAFC season ticket-holder died Thursday morning after a battle with pneumonia caused by COVID-19. Jeffrey Ghazarian was a Los Angeles FC season ticket-holder,  the club confirmed Thursday.

“We are deeply saddened by the loss of LAFC Member Jeff Ghazarian,” LAFC said in a post with a photo of him at a fan event. “Our thoughts are with his family and all those affected during this difficult time.”

We are deeply saddened by the loss of LAFC Member Jeff Ghazarian.

Our thoughts are with his family and all those affected during this difficult time. #COVID19 pic.twitter.com/eWDnFxXEuO

— LAFC (@LAFC) March 20, 2020

Ghazarian reportedly developed a cough after a visit to Disney World and Universal Studios, and was hospitalized when he developed a high fever. He tested positive for COVID-19 and scans showed his lungs were as much as 70% blocked by pneumonia. Both theme parks have since temporarily shut down due to the coronavirus.

Although most soccer professionals in North America have acted responsibility, heeding warnings about mass gatherings and social distancing, not all millennials have gotten the message, apparently.

Bars and beaches during spring break in Florida remain crowded despite the worldwide pandemic. Sky Blue FC and USWNT midfielder Midge Purce, a 24-year-old Harvard graduate doesn’t understand and took to Twitter to pen what she called “a message to my generation.”

COVID19-A message to my generation:

— Margaret "Midge" Purce (@100Purcent) March 19, 2020

FC Dallas outside back Reggie Cannon was hoping for a transfer in the summer transfer window, but the 21-year-old, who has emerged as a USMNT regular, believes the coronavirus pandemic may sidetrack those plans.

“Yeah, it’s obviously a concern,” Cannon told reporters on a conference call Thursday. “Being transparent, I want to be present in my situation and give Dallas my 100 percent for however long I’m here. But the goal was to be transferred in the summer, and obviously teams are in a scramble right now because it’s a tough time for transfers at the moment. Now the most important thing is safety and health.”

Meanwhile at Colorado, Pro Soccer USA’s Marco Cummings reports Rapids coach Robin Fraser said the league’s suspension hasn’t halted a battle for the club’s No. 1 goalkeeping job between Clint Irwin and William Yarbrough, who joined the club on loan earlier this month.

“I think right now Clint has been good and solid and offers the maturity, composure and obviously good goalkeeping ability. He has been the number one to this point,” Fraser said. “I do think bringing in Will just opens up the competition.”

The Canadian MLS teams offered TSN a glimpse into what it’s been like at their clubs during the suspension of play.

In Montreal, Impact president and CEO Kevin Gilmore said its important for his club to set an example for the Impact fans.

With @MLS on hold, @impactmontreal President & CEO @kgilmore88 updates us on what's happening at the club while they wait for play to resume #IMFC pic.twitter.com/3pz6VHrZzo

— TSN Soccer (@TSNSoccer) March 19, 2020

“We know that we have an influence on people,” he said. “Fans have a passionate and emotional connection with teams and clubs and leagues and players, and if we can use that connection to send a message to stay home and follow the precautions and guidelines of the public health authorities — if we can do that — we will do our best to pass that message along.”

Toronto FC president Bill Manning said although there’s a pause in games and a training moratorium that extends through Friday, it doesn’t mean the players aren’t staying fit and as sharp as possible.

What are @TorontoFC doing to keep their players ready to play during this break? Club President Bill Manning fills us in and provides some updates on Michael Bradley and Pablo Piatti #TFCLive pic.twitter.com/KAxB8g1fB2

— TSN Soccer (@TSNSoccer) March 19, 2020

“We’re trying to stay in steady communication,” Manning said. “We set up home workout programs for all our players, we’re actually looking into having our chef prepare meals that we can deliver to our players. Every day, every other day [we send] an email just making sure they’re aware of what’s going on and anything new that’s coming from the league. And just trying to make sure the guys take every precautionary measure they can, they stay at home and are safe and doing their part to make sure that we don’t spread this.”

In Vancouver, Whitecaps sporting director Axel Schuster said the business of soccer still continues and his “phone’s not stopping” with his vast European connections.

What is happening with @WhitecapsFC during this break? Their leadership team joins @LukeWileman to provide an update #VWFC pic.twitter.com/F0gUL98mvT

— TSN Soccer (@TSNSoccer) March 19, 2020

“You have to be creative,” he said. “Now is not the time to discuss in the wrong way, everybody has to be open to give up on some things and I think that shows now. And that’s a good thing, that football is united all over the world, that anybody is open to help everybody and to find the right solutions to come back to the game at the right time and to give back the joy to the people to be in the stadium, to follow our game.”

Around Town

Austin FC co-owner Matthew McConaughey took to Twitter to offer an inspirational message about dealing with the COVID-19 crisis. And if you stick around until the end, you just might catch a quote from his classic film “Dazed and Confused.”

because every red light eventually turns green pic.twitter.com/x05GuITW4J

— Matthew McConaughey (@McConaughey) March 17, 2020

MLS clubs continue to give back to their affected communities during the league’s hiatus.

The RSL Foundation is donating food originally intended for Real Salt Lake matches, as well as $5,000, for a total of $38,300 to Utah Food Bank

“In this difficult time that everyone is facing, we wanted to take the opportunity to help those in need,” RSL foundation executive director Mary Van Minde said in a statement. “In delivering food that may have gone to waste to the Utah Food Bank, the RSL Foundation aims not only to help people affected by the pandemic, but also create awareness for a giving opportunity right here in our community.”

FC Dallas partnered with Toyota to provide meals, originally intended for upcoming matches at Toyota Stadium, for local volunteers who have been feeding needy middle school students meals since the outbreak.

“We’re proud to work with Legends Hospitality and the food and beverage team at Toyota Stadium to provide these meals to the volunteers who are tirelessly working to ensure that FISD students do not go hungry during this unprecedented time,” FC Dallas foundation manager Brooke Leverette said in a statement.

Pictures and videos of animals help provide a sense of calm during these troubled times. Yesterday, we saw San Jose Earthquakes coach Matias Almeyda with his Yorkie.

Well, how about a soccer-playing horse?

Need a football fix? Our equine premier league is kicking off! Today's practice: working on sending it and bending it @MenInBlazers pic.twitter.com/imaRtwqAEk

— Melissa Merrick (@M_J_Merrick) March 19, 2020

Keeping Busy

What to watch has been a big theme during the break from soccer here and across the world.

With that in mind, some New York Red Bulls players provided their Netflix and chill favorites.

With everyone at home, we asked our guys what they're streaming on @netflix?

What are you watching? // THREAD

— New York Red Bulls (@NewYorkRedBulls) March 19, 2020

“The English Game,” a new Netflix series about the birth and growth of the game worldwide from the creator of Downton Abbey, debuts Friday.

Also on Friday, FS1 is showing a replay of the 2019 Women’s World Cup final between the United States and Netherlands at 8 p.m. ET.

No spoilers.

The back-to-back champs come to FS1 on back-to-back nights

Relive the action and excitement of the 2015 and 2019 FIFA Women’s World Cup finals Thursday and Friday on FS1 pic.twitter.com/xn3TdZ1u9o

— FOX Sports PR (@FOXSportsPR) March 19, 2020

The post Life Without Soccer: News and Updates for Friday, March 20 appeared first on Pro Soccer USA.

COMMERCE CITY, Colo. – With the Major League Soccer season at a standstill until at least May 10, Colorado Rapids coach Robin Fraser is making one main ask of his players: be ready.

“We’ve been talking and trying to maintain our fitness and I think, regardless, we will have to do things to maintain fitness,” Fraser explained to reporters via conference call on Thursday. “The first step has just been keeping guys in frame of mind where they need to stay fit.”

Nonetheless, Fraser took time to be thoughtful about the severity and uncertainty of the COVID-19 pandemic, with soccer just being one of the many facets of day to day life that the virus has impacted. Fraser has said the league’s suspension “makes perfect sense” and he has been supportive of it.

“Obviously, this whole thing is way bigger than soccer,” he said. “And we understand obviously are taking every precaution possible to be safe and keep our families safe. But at the same time, it’s a difficult time for the world. For us to look at this as something positive for us individually can be extremely short sighted.”

When players do return from the break from play however, Fraser emphasized that every position on the field will be up for grabs, including goalkeeper.

“Every job is up for grabs every week,” Fraser explained. “That type of competition is what ultimately is going to drive you.”

Clint Irwin backstopped Colorado in its two wins to open the season, but the Rapids gave up a second half goal in each fixture, meaning there could be an opening for William Yarbrough, who joined the Rapids on loan earlier this month.

The pair, both 30 years old, competed in goalkeeper drills prior to the league suspension, but nothing seemed to clearly separate the two during open practice sessions.

Conversely, Irwin is no stranger to goalkeeping competitions.

The Rapids’ incumbent starter beat out MLS Cup winner Matt Pickens and Steward Ceus to win the Rapids starting job originally in 2013.  A season later, he survived a goalkeeping carousel with Joe Nasco and John Berner before returning as the regular No. 1. In Toronto, he platooned with Alex Bono before eventually losing the starting job due to injury.

Last season, Irwin returned to Colorado, posting a record of 4-4-2 in 11 appearances (nine starts) in relief of an injured Tim Howard.

“I think right now Clint has been good and solid and offers the maturity, composure and obviously good goalkeeping ability. He has been the number one to this point,” Fraser said. “I do think bringing in Will just opens up the competition.”

Yarbrough brings an arguably more accomplished career resume, having competed with the U.S. National Team and in Liga MX, where he won titles with Leon – the club he is currently on loan from.

“I think my biggest ability is my mental toughness,” Yarbrough said during his first week of training in Colorado. “And my ability to read the game. Being able to read the game and understand what a player can do to score.”

Mental toughness is another quality which Fraser alluded to as important as each ‘keeper battles for the chance to start when play resumes.

“It’s a tough job to be a goalkeeper,” Fraser said.  “You come in and you know that if you get the opportunity and you do really well then you probably have the ability to keep it for a while. They understand that’s how it works. I think there’s no goalkeeper next level that doesn’t understand that.”

The Rapids’ starting goalkeeper could be whoever returns to training the most fit, regardless of when that actually happens. For now, the competition continues, albeit with home workouts.

“I think there’s constant competition everywhere,” said Fraser. “I think that’s real, real necessary factor. For all the years that I’ve played, and I know there’s nothing that gets that little extra bit out of you like competition.”

The post Amid MLS pause, Rapids starting goalkeeper competition remains in play appeared first on Pro Soccer USA.

Major League Soccer extended the temporary suspension of its season to May 10, is still committed to playing a full season and is examining the possibility of holding MLS Cup in December. 

The hiatus extension comes after the Center for Disease Control and Prevention outlined new guidelines earlier this week on limiting mass gatherings of more than 50 people to eight weeks in response to the coronavirus pandemic.

The original suspension was supposed to last until at least April 11. 

Every game that was supposed to occur before the suspension is expected to be rescheduled. MLS was in its third match week when the decision was made to halt the season. 

“In accordance with the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention’s guidance to postpone events involving more than 50 people over the next eight weeks, Major League Soccer has extended the postponement of its matches during this period of the time,” the league said in a statement. “MLS remains focused on playing the entire 2020 season and is evaluating all options, including pushing back the end of the season and playing MLS Cup in December, as the league did prior to the 2019 season.

“The league is also identifying other available dates. Throughout the process, MLS will continue to prioritize the safety of our fans, players, employees and partners and to coordinate with federal and local public health authorities as well as other sporting organizations.”

Major League Soccer Statement on CDC Recommendation pic.twitter.com/XRXGfUEtz0

— Major League Soccer (@MLS) March 19, 2020

MLS joins other leagues around the U.S. and around the world who have decided to extend their temporary suspensions of seasons. The USL announced on Wednesday it was extended its suspension of the USL Championship and USL League One through at least May 10. 

In previous seasons, the MLS Cup was played in December, but it changed last season when the league moved it up to November, ahead of the FIFA window to avoid a break in the playoff schedule. 

That was the plan again this year with the start of the season moved up to the beginning of February as two new expansions clubs, Nashville SC and Inter Miami CF, joined the league. 

COVID-19, the name of the disease, has changed things dramatically for MLS, which is in its 25th season. 

MLS commissioner Don Garber released a letter Sunday urging fans to take the necessary precautions to stay safe and be patient as the league deals with the outbreak. He encouraged fans to continue to support the league during the original 30-day hiatus that was set forth by the league. 

“During this rapidly changing time, we will take every necessary precaution, and I ask you to do the same,” Garber stated in his letter. “This moment in our history transcends sport. It is a time for all of us to come together and take care of each other. Your support has always meant everything to us, but never more so than now.”

The post MLS extends suspension, eyes playing MLS Cup in December appeared first on Pro Soccer USA.

COMMERCE CITY, Colo. – The Colorado Rapids started the 2020 MLS campaign hot, earning six points from the opening two matches against D.C. United and Orlando City SC. But like the rest of MLS, their campaign came to a standstill following the league’s decision to suspend play due to COVID-19.

Rapids coach Robin Fraser reacted to the situation midweek, speaking with the Moser, Lombardi and Kane Show on Altitude Radio.

“My first reaction was: What?” Fraser said. “It really took a while for it to sink in. After the NBA suspended their season, I knew it was coming, though. At the end of the day, it makes perfect sense. As disappointed as we are to have the season be suspended, it’s obviously not a question that it had to be done. It was the right decision.”

In line with the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention and the Public Health Agency of Canada’s recommendations for containment of the COVID-19 virus, MLS has also instituted a training moratorium. 

“For us and for the league, as you can imagine, every step has been based on what has happened around the country and what CDC is saying,” Fraser explained. “The league is updating us. The players are sitting and waiting, but our sports science department is working with them on their individual programs and things they can and have to do on their own to stay as ready as possible.”

Fraser also explained all players are in-market until further notice. Colorado has seven international players on its roster.

“It’s such a difficult and strange time,” Fraser said. “For the time being it’s stay here, do what you can to stay fit and wait to see what comes next for us.”

The post Colorado Rapids coach Robin Fraser: MLS suspension ‘makes perfect sense’ appeared first on Pro Soccer USA.

The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention issued a new guideline Sunday suggesting mass gatherings of more than 50 people be restricted for an eight-week period, which would likely extend the suspension of all sports leagues.

The goal of the mandate is to slow the spread of the coronavirus pandemic by limiting the amount of large events that could spur mass transmission. Restricting these types of events can also reduce the introduction of the coronavirus into new communities.

The CDC listed sporting events as a form of mass gatherings that should avoided and suggested the cancellation or postponement of any event consisting of 50 people or more for the next eight weeks. While the guideline is not a government mandate, MLS, NWSL and USL have all followed previous CDC guidelines closely, including suggestions to self-quarantine players who have traveled from outside of the country.

MLS originally suspended all matches for 30 days and paused training through Friday this week.

The NWSL canceled all preseason matches and restricted training through March 22.

Both leagues issued statements the past week expressing their willingness to adhere to the suggestions of the CDC and other government health officials.

The post CDC issues guidance on mass gatherings that could shut down MLS, NWSL and USL for 2 months appeared first on Pro Soccer USA.

MLS commissioner Don Garber released a letter Sunday urging fans to practice patience and caution amid the coronavirus pandemic.

The commissioner encouraged fans to continue their support of the league throughout its 30-day hiatus.

“During this rapidly changing time, we will take every necessary precaution, and I ask you to do the same,” Garber said. “This moment in our history transcends sport. It is a time for all of us to come together and take care of each other. Your support has always meant everything to us, but never more so than now.”

Garber said the league is working with the Centers for Disease Control and Public Health Agency of Canada, along with local public health authorities, to create a plan for the coming weeks. Every game set to take place during the suspension period is expected to be rescheduled, and Garber said all previously purchased tickets for those games will be honored on the new dates.

NBA Commissioner Adam Silver issued a similar letter to fans last week, promising the NBA would eventually resume play. The league was the first to shut down after a player tested positive for the coronavirus. To date, three NBA players have tested positive.  

Garber’s letter came three days after MLS shut down play to help slow the spread of coronavirus. MLS issued a 30-day suspension of all games on Thursday, a massive step for a league that still heavily depends on game-day revenue to support clubs. The league went on to suspend all training through the weekend to protect the health of players and staff.

Read Garber’s full letter:

A letter from @thesoccerdon regarding COVID-19

https://t.co/u9CDWhXwvB pic.twitter.com/Rzf91LGCUs

— Major League Soccer (@MLS) March 15, 2020

The post MLS commissioner Don Garber urges fans to ‘take every necessary precaution’ in letter appeared first on Pro Soccer USA.

Major League Soccer has announced the 2020 season will be suspended for 30 days as it continues to assess the impact of coronavirus. MLS commissioner Don Garber confirmed all 26 clubs were “united” to halt fixtures with immediate effect due to the outbreak, which has been declared a pandemic by the World Health Organization. The decision […]

The post Coronavirus: MLS season suspended for 30 days appeared first on Soccer News.

The post Coronavirus: MLS season suspended for 30 days appeared first on Soccer News.

COMMERCE CITY, Colo. – When Younes Namli scored the opening goal in the Colorado Rapids’ 2-1 win over Orlando City SC Saturday, he made history. Scoring after just two appearances, it marked the fastest a Rapids’ Designated Player has gotten on the scoresheet after their Colorado debut.

Colorado’s track record with Designated Players could be graded best as a “mixed bag” with names like Tim Howard, Kevin Doyle, Shkëlzen Gashi, Juan Ramirez and Gabriel Torres having graced the annals of Dick’s Sporting Goods Park. Transitioning to MLS and the altitude of Colorado was always going to be a challenge, but for Namli and the Rapids, it was important their newest big name signing find success and find it early.

“I think anytime you’re a new player on a team, there’s expectations and within the community there’s expectations even around the league,” Rapids coach Robin Fraser said. “I think if you score in your second game in the league and then score in that fashion, I think you take some of that pressure off and you just get to be you.”

Namli did just that, dribbling through Orlando defenders as if it were a cone drill at training before finding the silky finish. It was a play that showed the Danish-Moroccan midfielder’s best qualities – creativity, vision and drive.

He learned those qualities growing up while watching some of his favorite players in YouTube videos and Nike’s famed “Joga Bonito” ad campaign – videos which featured famed Brazilian Ronaldinho and his national team compatriots showing off their skills.

“He was an amazing player,” said Namli. “I mean, and the fact that he always played with a smile was just amazing to watch.”

Namli has brought similar attributes to Colorado, both on and off the pitch. Aside from his goalscoring and creativity, the attacker has brought a healthy mix of professionalism and lightheartedness to the locker room. Despite being the new guy, Namli hasn’t backed down from the banter of other locker room characters like Jack Price or Kellyn Acosta.

“Who is that? Obama?” he quipped to a suit-clad Acosta trying to disrupt a media scrum surrounding him.

“En Espagnol,” he ribs to the Spanish-speaking American goalkeeper William Yarbrough while he conducts his own interview.

“He’s got a really like fun personality,” Fraser said with a grin. “And when it comes to soccer, he wants to win. He’s a very determined player. And really, he very much fits into our locker room. He’s a guy who will do whatever the team asked him to do. He works extremely hard. He’s very, very serious when it comes to winning games.”

The son of Moroccan immigrants, Namli also learned the value of hard work.

“My parents provided everything for my siblings and I,” said Namli. “I am where I am today because of them.”

With Colorado in the midst of a build towards a return to the postseason following a three-year hiatus, Namli knows his role in the project and is fully on board with achieving its goal.

“The style of play and the club’s ambition was the most important thing in making my decision [to sign],” he explained. “There’s a challenge here to compete in MLS. It was a perfect fit for me.”

History will determine whether Namli is graded in better terms than his Designated Player predecessors. Nonetheless, he’s already well on the path toward carving out a legacy for himself and his team.

“I came to compete and we have a good a good group of guys, a good squad,” Namli said. “Hopefully we’ll be able to achieve something.”

The post Younes Namli looking to carve his own Colorado Rapids legacy appeared first on Pro Soccer USA.

Former United States men’s national team midfielder Benny Feilhaber announced his retirement Wednesday, capping a 15-year career that included stops in the German Bundesliga, English Premier League, Danish Superliga, and Major League Soccer.

Feilhaber, 35, represented four MLS clubs from 2011-19: the New England Revolution, Sporting Kansas City, Los Angeles FC and Colorado Rapids.

He’s coming off a disappointing season with SKC, who failed to reach the playoffs in 2019 and declined Feilhaber’s contract option at the end of the campaign.

That said, in a long post on his personal Twitter account announcing his retirement, recapping his career and thanking coaches and fans, Feilhaber singled out Kansas City as a place near and dear to his heart.

“Sporting KC and [coach] Peter Vermes brought to the club where I now call home,” wrote Feilhaber, who lives in Overland Park, Kansas. “I grew as a player and a person, became a husband and father, and ultimately had the best five years of my life, on and off the field.”

Feilhaber, who recorded 41 goals and 60 assists in 262 regular season appearances, had two separate stints with SKC (2013-17 and 2019) and helped the club win the 2013 MLS Cup and 2015 and 2017 U.S. Open Cups.

His career was well-established before he came to MLS. After two years at UCLA, Feilhaber joined Hamburger SV in the Bundesliga in 2005. He moved to England’s Derby County in 2007 and remained there until 2008 before transferring to Denmark’s AGF Aarhus, where he played from 2008-11.

Feilhaber was on the squad’s periphery at Hamburger and was utilized sparingly at Derby County as well, but former U.S. men’s national team coach Bob Bradley nevertheless started giving him consistent call-ups in 2006.

Arguably Feilhaber’s most seminal moment — for both club and country — was his game-winning goal against Mexico in the 2007 Concacaf Gold Cup final.

The extratime winner arrived off a corner kick, with a wide-open Feilhaber belting a perfectly-hit volley into the back of the net past a helpless Oswaldo Sanchez in front of 50,760 at Soldier Field in Chicago.

Feilhaber was on the field for many more of the U.S.’s noteworthy and notorious moments from the last decade.

He played in the “Miracle on Grass” game when the USMNT prevailed against world powerhouse Spain, 2-0, in the semifinals of the 2009 Confederations Cup.

He was on the field for Landon Donovan’s last-second winner against Algeria at the 2010 FIFA World Cup that sent the U.S. into the knockout round.

And he played in the U.S.’s 2-1 loss to Trinidad and Tobago in October 2017, which left the Yanks out of the World Cup for the first time since 1986.

The New England Revolution acquired Feilhaber in 2011 via allocation. He struggled in Foxborough as the Revolution failed to reach the playoffs in both seasons he was with the club. New England subsequently traded Feilhaber to Kansas City for two SuperDraft picks and undisclosed amount of allocation money.

After four seasons, Kansas City traded him to Los Angeles FC in 2018 for $400,000, a move which reunited Feilhaber with Bradley.

He recorded three goals and six assists in the club’s inaugural season, but left the next winter and joined Colorado as a free agent.

Feilhaber lasted less than three months with the Rapids, who traded him back to Kansas City last May. He scored two goals in 17 appearances with SKC last season.

“I would be remiss to not add a massive thank you to all the fans I’ve had along the way,” Feilhaber added. “All the fans that loved me and all the fans that hated me, you guys played an integral part on the many emotions I’ve felt throughout this wonderful journey.

“The Cauldron, the South Stand and everyone in between…you guys cheered me on for six season in the Blue Hell and I appreciated every single minute of it. I hope to, one day soon, be leading the ‘I believe’ chant with you all.”

I love this game but running is hard. So I’m out!! pic.twitter.com/IQ03oUpFuY

— Benny Feilhaber (@b_feilhaber22) March 11, 2020

The post Benny Feilhaber announces retirement after storied 15-year career appeared first on Pro Soccer USA.

If you like overreactions after Week 2 of the Major League Soccer season, then Minnesota United and Sporting Kansas City are the favorites to win MLS Cup.

While we will not go that far here, we are more than willing to hand out praise to the players on those clubs for how strong they have started. 

The Loons have reeled off two straight wins and they blitzed through the San Jose Earthquakes by scoring five goals Saturday. Sporting KC’s bounce-back season is full effect already with a pair of new acquisitions leading the charge. 

Given how well the players on both Western Conference squads have played, they have a large presence at the top of the Pro Soccer USA MLS Player Rankings. 

We have expanded the list to 20 after Week 2, which is where it will stay for the rest of the campaign. When a larger sample size is put together, we will take into account the last four appearances, with the most-recent weighing more in our decision-making. 

But for now, we are listing the players based off how they have performed in Weeks 1 and 2. 

20. Kyle Duncan, D, New York Red Bulls

Previous Ranking: Not Ranked

Kyle Duncan was one of a few players that starred in the New York Red Bulls’ season-opening win over FC Cincinnati. 

Duncan and the defensive unit helped Chris Armas’ side earn a point in its first road game at Real Salt Lake Saturday. 

The 22-year-old right back won three aerials, had one off-the-line clearance and made four tackles at Rio Tinto Stadium.

19. Eddie Segura, D, Los Angeles FC

Previous Ranking: 9

The final goal in the chaotic 3-3 draw between Los Angeles FC and Philadelphia was netted by Eddie Segura. 

The LAFC center back completed a 23-minute sequence in which four goals were scored, two by each side. 

IT'S 3-3!!!

Eddie Segura slams home for @LAFC, and we've still got another quarter of an hour to go. pic.twitter.com/BmSa4lFTVA

— FOX Soccer (@FOXSoccer) March 9, 2020

While it was not the best defensive performance from LAFC, there was also little the Black-and-Gold defenders could do to keep out the golazos netted by Sergio Santos and Jakob Glesnes. 

18. Thiago Santos, M, FC Dallas

Previous Ranking: 8

FC Dallas midfielder Thiago Santos (5) trips while battling with Philadelphia Union midfielder Brenden Aaronson (22) Saturday, Feb. 29, 2020, in Frisco, Texas. (Ryan Michalesko/The Dallas Morning News via AP)

One of the key figures on a predominantly young FC Dallas squad could be a 30-year-old Brazilian defensive midfielder. 

Thiago Santos was the most active FC Dallas player on the ball in Saturday’s 2-2 draw with the Montreal Impact, as he made 108 touches. 

Defensively, he made three tackles, a clearance and an interception and disrupted parts of Montreal’s attacking development. 

If he continues to play well, it may open up more freedom for players like Tanner Tessmann and Paxton Pomykal to attack with a safety blanket behind them. 

17. Ifunanyachi Achara, F, Toronto FC

Previous Ranking: Not Ranked

The most surprising star of the first two weeks is Ifunanyachi Achara. 

The 25th overall pick in the 2020 MLS SuperDraft scored the lone goal in Toronto FC’s 1-0 win over New York City FC. He also had a goal taken back by VAR. 

Have yourself a night, rook!@AcharaIfy10 | #TFCLive pic.twitter.com/ZQ3mYpnfDf

— Toronto FC (@TorontoFC) March 7, 2020

The 22-year-old appears to be the gem found in the deeper part of the SuperDraft, which has not produced enough talent in previous years compared to past seasons because of the emergence of Homegrown players. 

16. Jack Price, M, Colorado Rapids

Previous Ranking: Not Ranked

While you have been busy fawning over Minnesota and Sporting KC, the Colorado Rapids racked up a pair of wins to begin the season as well.

Jack Price has dished out a pair of assists in the opening stretch for Robin Fraser’s side that pulled off wins over Orlando City and D.C. United. 

There is a chance the Rapids continue their strong start since they face the Vancouver Whitecaps and Houston Dynamo in the next two games.

15. Emerson Hyndman, M, Atlanta United

Previous Ranking: Not Ranked

Emerson Hyndman has gone from cast-off loan player at Bournemouth to a contributing midfield piece for Atlanta United. 

goals in games for @emersonhyndman!

That's a 2-0 lead for the hosts. #ATLvCIN pic.twitter.com/K590CgfwEf

— Major League Soccer (@MLS) March 8, 2020

Part of that evolution has to do with the quality around, but the American midfielder deserves credit for winning a spot and scoring in each of the first two weeks. 

With Josef Martinez out for the season, the Five Stripes will need a handful of players to chip in with goals to fill the void left by the Venezuelan. 

14. Michael Barrios, M, FC Dallas

Previous Ranking: Not Ranked

An argument can be made that Michael Barrios is one of the most overlooked midfielders in MLS. 

The 28-year-old Colombian has not been credited with a goal or assist yet, but he has been involved in many of FC Dallas’ attacking buildups. 

In Saturday’s draw with the Impact, he dished out six key passes, which came after he handed out a pair of key assists in the Week 1 win over Philadelphia. 

13. Ali Adnan, D, Vancouver Whitecaps

Previous Ranking: Not Ranked

Speaking of overlooked players, Ali Adnan may top that list at the moment. 

Few outside observes have paid attention to the Whitecaps under Marc Dos Santos because of their poor form, but the full back has been one of the few bright spots. 

Raposo Adnan Ricketts BACK OF THE NET!!!!!

LA 0-1 VAN | #VWFC pic.twitter.com/YwKjIZo2G4

— Vancouver Whitecaps FC (@WhitecapsFC) March 8, 2020

On Saturday, the 26-year-old provided an assist on Tosaint Ricketts’ game-winner against the LA Galaxy, and he was part of a unit that allowed a single shot on goal to the Chicharito-led Galaxy attack. 

12. Gonzalo “Pity” Martinez, M, Atlanta United

Previous Ranking: Not Ranked

Gonzalo “Pity” Martinez has been the opposite of overlooked since he arrived in Georgia. 

The pressure has been on Martinez to thrive because of the hefty price Atlanta United spent to acquire him. 

The 26-year-old handed out two assists in Atlanta’s 2-1 win over FC Cincinnati, which marked the first time he played without Josef Martinez. 

Of course, there will be much more difficult games ahead where the top striker will be missed, but Saturday was a good step in the right direction.

11. Andre Blake, GK, Philadelphia Union

Previous Ranking: Not Ranked

Typically, we do not like to reward goalkeepers who conceded on three occasions, but Andre Blake is the exception to that. 

The Jamaican netminder made eight saves to preserve the Union’s 3-3 draw at Banc of California Stadium. 

Blake did all of this with a growing bruise on his forehand from a collision early in the first half. 

He made plenty of important denials, but the most crucial one came in the final minutes of the contest to make sure the Union left southern California with their first point. 

10. Ezequiel Barco, M, Atlanta United

Previous Ranking: Not Ranked

Ezequiel Barco might end up as the biggest beneficiary to Martinez’s long-term injury. 

The opportunities to score will come in bunches for the Argentinian, who has found the back of the net in each of Atlanta’s league contests. 

But his scoring run might end in Week 3 against Sporting Kansas City, a match that comes three days after a trip to Estadio Azteca to play Club America in the Concacaf Champions League quarterfinals. 

9. Zdenek Ondrasek, F, FC Dallas

Previous Ranking: Not Ranked

The man nicknamed Kobra has been lethal in front of goal for FC Dallas in 2020.

Zdenek Ondrasek is one of a few players to score in each of the first two weeks, and he provided an assist on the other FC Dallas goal Saturday. 

BIG goal from Kobra!

Keep fighting boys!#DTID | #SomosFCD pic.twitter.com/BGXRXyGCFg

— FC Dallas (@FCDallas) March 7, 2020

Since Aug. 17, 2019, the Czech striker has scored nine goals in 10 regular-season contests. 

8. Luis Amarilla, F, Minnesota United

Previous Ranking: Not Ranked

Luis Amarilla still has a long way to go to reach the 25 goals he guaranteed when he was introduced as a Minnesota United player. 

¡Se vuelve a encontrar con el gol Luis Amarilla!#SJvMIN | 1-3 pic.twitter.com/7Yw6tN3oJk

— MLS Español (@MLSes) March 8, 2020

But the 24-year-old is off to a great start in attaining that total, as he scored once in each of Minnesota’s two wins. 

Amarilla, who also contributed an assist Saturday, is one of three Loons with multiple tallies. 

7. Jordan Morris, F, Seattle Sounders

Previous Ranking: 1

Jordan Morris celebrates after scoring a goal (Credit- Charis Wilson / Sounders FC Communications)

Jordan Morris was the top performer from Week 1 by scoring two goals in the Seattle Sounders’ opener. 

He was not as successful in front of goal against the Columbus Crew Saturday, as he failed to put any of his three shots on target.

Despite the lack of goals in Week 2, Morris looks like one of the most promising forwards in MLS once again, which is a promising sign for the U.S. men’s national team.

6. Gadi Kinda, M, Sporting Kansas City

Previous Ranking: Not Ranked

Sporting KC manager Peter Vermes has excelled in the past at bringing in lesser-known players to thrive in his system.

#SportingKC are cruising!

Alan Pulido Gadi Kinda for 3-0 (catch that Pulido skill at the start too). #SKCvHOU pic.twitter.com/aDEZcyDJVI

— Major League Soccer (@MLS) March 8, 2020

Gadi Kinda fits into that category, as he has fit into the team’s system well in his first two games. 

The 25-year-old has two goals and an assist, including a tally and a handout in the 4-0 thumping of the Houston Dynamo Saturday. 

5. Jan Gregus, M, Minnesota United

Previous Ranking: Not Ranked

Jan Gregus was one of many Loons to boost his stat totals in Saturday’s blowout over the Earthquakes. 

The Slovakian midfielder contributed a goal and two assists in the five-goal outburst that kept them on top of the Western Conference. 

BOOM

Whatta strike from Jan Gregus! #MNUFC pic.twitter.com/vdil6nYNYy

— FOX Sports North (@fsnorth) March 8, 2020

The 29-year-old added four key passes and made a trio of tackles on the defensive end of the pitch. 

4. Carlos Vela, F, Los Angeles FC

Previous Ranking: 8

Carlos Vela delivered another moment of brilliance Sunday in the shootout with the Union.

SHEESH!

Carlos Vela is starting off the new season on

(via @MLS) pic.twitter.com/rzcFB8OQ8c

— ESPN FC (@ESPNFC) March 9, 2020

The Mexican forward curled a free kick perfectly over Blake into the left roof of the net for the first of three game-tying goals. 

Although he was not as dynamic as some of the other players on this list, Vela continues to be consistent, which is what we reward the most here. 

3. Maxi Urruti, F, Montreal Impact

Previous Ranking: Not Ranked

Maxi Urruti is the unlikely Golden Boot leader through two weeks. 

The former FC Dallas man netted a pair of tallies for the Impact against his old team at Toyota Stadium Saturday. 

Urruti is already one goal away from matching his season total from 2019 and he has scored in three consecutive regular-season matches dating back to last year’s finale.

2. Alan Pulido, F, Sporting Kansas City

Previous Ranking: Not Ranked

Alan Pulido has delivered so far up top for Sporting KC.

The Mexican No. 9 racked up his first tally in front of the home crowd at Children’s Mercy Park in the rout over Houston. 

Welcome to The Blue Hell, @alanpulido. #SKCvHOU // 1-0 pic.twitter.com/O1i8GSnFVs

— Sporting KC (@SportingKC) March 8, 2020

The 29-year-old has scored in back-to-back games and has a chance to shine even further against Atlanta United in what will be one of Week 3’s most anticipated games. 

1. Ike Opara, D, Minnesota United

Previous Ranking: Not Ranked

The reigning MLS Defender of the Year is currently in the mix for the Golden Boot as well. 

Ike Opara’s goal total may drift off in the next few weeks, but it was impressive to see what he did in the win over San Jose. 

You can't guard @ikeopara in the box. pic.twitter.com/TuPnhsNM9I

— Major League Soccer (@MLS) March 9, 2020

The center back banged in a pair of headers against San Jose in a dominant performance in which the Loons had a three-goal advantage going into half. 

The Loons have a chance to extend their terrific start in front of their home crowd on national television Sunday versus the New York Red Bulls. 

The post MLS Player Rankings Week 2: Loons, Sporting KC dominate the top appeared first on Pro Soccer USA.

It’s taken just one week, but already there’s a shakeup at the top of the Pro Soccer USA Power Rankings.

In fact the top five spots have changed after the first two games of the 2020 season. Minnesota United FC and Atlanta United both made three-spot leaps to the top two spots after winning their second games of the year.

Sporting Kansas City, which also improved to 2-0-0 after a comprehensive victory over the Vancouver Whitecaps, moved four spots up to No. 3 followed by last week’s top two teams — Seattle Sounders and LAFC.

The Major League Soccer Power Rankings are created by averaging the rankings submitted by a committee of Pro Soccer USA’s editors and writers.

Pro Soccer USA writers Dylan Butler, Julian Cardillo, Ben Ferree, and Robert Jonas contributed to this report

The post MLS Power Rankings Week 2: Minnesota United move to top spot appeared first on Pro Soccer USA.

The new Major League Soccer has begun and Inter Miami are one of the two new franchises in the league. That has taken MLS up to the record-breaking 26 teams in the league and Inter Miami are already looking eager to make some big statements. They lost their two opening away matches, but are still […]

The post David Beckham wants to bring Man City star to his Inter Miami side appeared first on Soccer News.

The post David Beckham wants to bring Man City star to his Inter Miami side appeared first on Soccer News.

Amid the coronavirus threat, MLS has joined the NBA, MLB and NHL closing locker rooms to media.

The leagues issued a joint statement on Monday limiting pregame and postgame access in locker rooms to players and essential staff.

The statement indicated the locker room policy change was made to help thwart the spread of the new coronavirus, also known as COVID-19. It has spread to 13 U.S. states and three Canadian provinces so far, with testing still not widely available within the United States. 

The locker room changes will begin Tuesday morning. 

“After consultation with infectious disease and public health experts, and given the issues that can be associated with close contact in pre- and post-game settings, all team locker rooms and clubhouses will be open only to players and essential employees of teams and team facilities until further notice,” the statement read. “Media access will be maintained in designated locations outside of the locker room and clubhouse setting.”

Affects of coronavirus have already been seen throughout the soccer world, with teams in Italy initially playing in empty stadiums to avoid fans further spreading the disease. On Monday, Italian authorities shut down all sporting events, including Serie A play and Olympic qualifying competition.

MLS formed a task force last week to manage its response to the disease, communicating with governmental agencies such as the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention and the Public Health Agency of Canada. The Columbus Crew altered travel plans for the team’s match in Seattle last week, chartering flights in and out to spend as little time as possible in the city where 22 people have died so far from the virus.

Although MLS matches have yet to be closed to fans or canceled, the league will continue to monitor the situation and make adjustments in the coming week.

The post MLS closes team locker rooms to media amid coronavirus concerns appeared first on Pro Soccer USA.

Week 2 didn’t go as well for the MLS Best Bets column as Week 1 did. Take a look at the Week 2 results below, along with who made us happy, who made us mad and where we just fell flat. And come back Friday for the best bets of Week 3.

The Week 2 bets

The post MLS Best Bets Week 2 Recap: Strong road performances lead to tough losses appeared first on Pro Soccer USA.