Cal88 said:

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I was wrong about Gordon at Barca, looks like he is doing quite well. The assist at 1:45 is a beauty...

Anthony Gordon vs Rayo Vallecano pic.twitter.com/ZlMNxOPWJh

— 🕊️ (@MagicalXavi) August 31, 2026

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Gordon has been fantastic. It looks like he has beaten Adeyemi out. He is a rare player who can think at the rate of his Spanish teammates.

I think they call this "the winner's curse." Everton is going to get Balogun, but if they have to pay >50mil, they would have been better losing the bid. He is good but not that good. For him it is great. Everton generally playing a fast, attacking style that should fit his ability to move and finish. And he is getting paid.

https://www.espn.com/soccer/story/_/id/49783677/everton-deal-usmnt-forward-folarin-balogun-sources

For what it's worth (probably not much), Mathis Albert played the entire match today of Borossia Dortmand's DFB-Pokal cup 5-0 victory against lower league (5th tier? Amateur or semi-pro?) HEBC Hamburg.

No goals or assists for Albert, though he should have had an assist after a decent run and nice square pass for an uncontested shot from around the penalty spot that Nmecha put over the crossbar. But against this level of competition, really can't draw much of any conclusion.

sluggo said:

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I think they call this "the winner's curse." Everton is going to get Balogun, but if they have to pay >50mil, they would have been better losing the bid. He is good but not that good. For him it is great. Everton generally playing a fast, attacking style that should fit his ability to move and finish. And he is getting paid.

https://www.espn.com/soccer/story/_/id/49783677/everton-deal-usmnt-forward-folarin-balogun-sources

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For some reason the Balogun signing fell apart. I suspect something was found on his medical that made them renegotiate his pay downward, and he walked away. France is a good place for him anyway.

OneKeg said:

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For what it's worth (probably not much), Mathis Albert played the entire match today of Borossia Dortmand's DFB-Pokal cup 5-0 victory against lower league (5th tier? Amateur or semi-pro?) HEBC Hamburg.

No goals or assists for Albert, though he should have had an assist after a decent run and nice square pass for an uncontested shot from around the penalty spot that Nmecha put over the crossbar. But against this level of competition, really can't draw much of any conclusion.

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Cool that he played. Today they got Ethan Nweri (?), another winger, on loan from Arsenal. Albert is not going to play this year. I am actually skeptical that he will ever play for Dortmund. He is very good, but he needs to get better physically if he is going to break through. At 17 it is possible.

sluggo said:

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sluggo said:

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I think they call this "the winner's curse." Everton is going to get Balogun, but if they have to pay >50mil, they would have been better losing the bid. He is good but not that good. For him it is great. Everton generally playing a fast, attacking style that should fit his ability to move and finish. And he is getting paid.

https://www.espn.com/soccer/story/_/id/49783677/everton-deal-usmnt-forward-folarin-balogun-sources

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For some reason the Balogun signing fell apart. I suspect something was found on his medical that made them renegotiate his pay downward, and he walked away. France is a good place for him anyway.

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"Sources have told ESPN that Everton were alerted to "significant issues" by the medical." I hope he is okay, he is such a key player headed into 2030. Monaco is still trying to offload him to Turkey or Saudi. Lots of the French teams have financial problems for some reason.

Well, just got home from the Cal football game against UCLA after an amazing day in every way except the play on the field. So I thought I would make the only positive comment about actual game play that I can, which is to say here, on the soccer thread:

I noticed that Cavan Sullivan scored another goal in a Philadelphia Union victory and Justin Ellis has another assist to Griezmann in an Orlando victory. Promising young players doing what they do.

Have not yet looked at the highlights, but probably will once I eventually wake up tomorrow!

Enjoying the day in Santa Cruz with some friends. Have not checked anything football related or any soccer highlights. Trying and mostly succeeding in washing the awful taste of yesterday night's (American) football game out of my mouth.

But did notice that Reyna scored ok Strasbourg's 6-2 Ligue Un win (left in second half with his team up 3-1). Several other USMNT and borderline USMNT players played this weekend. I think Pepi scored for PSV against Ajax in a clash at the top of the Dutch Erdivisie and Scally scored for Monchenadbach's Bundesliga 4-3 loss against Cole Campbell's just-promoted and still undefeated Elversburg. Musuh also played the whole match in the midfield as AC Milan hung with Juventus (sans Weston McKennie) 1-1 in the Italian Serie A.

OneKeg said:

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Well, just got home from the Cal football game against UCLA after an amazing day in every way except the play on the field. So I thought I would make the only positive comment about actual game play that I can, which is to say here, on the soccer thread:

I noticed that Cavan Sullivan scored another goal in a Philadelphia Union victory and Justin Ellis has another assist to Griezmann in an Orlando victory. Promising young players doing what they do.

Have not yet looked at the highlights, but probably will once I eventually wake up tomorrow!

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I was at the Cal game too. Was a great day until the game started.

I watched the Union as I do every week. Sullivan had a good game. His goal was based on hustle. After Iloski dribbled the keeper, the keeper tripped Iloski. The ball went to Sullivan who shot it past a defender who was covering the line. Earlier Sullivan hit a shot hard at the keeper who spilled it. Damiani was in position for a goal but the defender beat him to the ball. Later Sullivan crossed a ball for an easy Iloski header finish, but Iloski flubbed his lines. His crappy teammates cost him one assist per game. He was the best player on the field as he is on most weeks.

To celebrate his goal, he got some white powder that he threw up, which was an imitation of LeBron, a fellow Philly sports star. Sullivan wants all the smoke. Once Pulisic celebrated a goal by doing the Trump dance. They are not similar guys.

Pierre had an uneven game. He gave up a goal when his man beat him to a cross, but it was called back for offside, which has nothing to do with being beaten. He also gave up a penalty on a soft push in the box that would not have been called in a real league. The penalty was saved and the Union shut out Montreal 2-0. The rest of the time Pierre was solid.

Ellis did have a nice assist to Griezmann that I saw on highlights. I have not seen the Reyna goal, but he is my favorite US player and I am glad he is now starting. He played 63 minutes. In other good news Mush started in midfield for Milan in a 1-1 draw with McKennie's Juventus. McKennie is injured. Pulisic was an unused sub.

This is for Big C if he is still reading this thread. My little things to love the game. Thing #1 in enjoying the game was the half turn. Lesson #2 is the Barcelona counter press. Let's start with a regular press. That is like in basketball where you try to win the ball back before the other team can starts its offense. It starts when the other team has a dead ball like a goal kick or a throw in.

A counter press is a press when the other team has a live ball, say when they have stolen the ball. When the other team has the ball every other team in the world moves back to some extent to defend. Barcelona does not. They use all their energy to win the ball back within three seconds. They attack like a swarm of bees. They may even move their defenders up to draw the other team offside. Overall, it is devastating. The USMNT actually showed some good counter pressing in the World Cup in the first four games, which is not something they did before.

This Barcelona team must be watched by any true fan of soccer. They are unlike anything that has come before.
They have the best two holding midfielders in the world in Rodri and Pedri. And even if neither played, they still have the best midfield in the world. And the best wingers. And arguably the best goalie. It is only their back line that is questionable. And their madman coach, who is too aggressive by a half.

I'll have to watch the Barcelona highlights tomorrow, along with perhaps those of the 6-3 Chelsea/Leeds one in the English "Carabao Cup." I did watch Borussia Dortmund (with Mathis Albert on the bench) against Villareal (with US starter Alex Freeman playing the second half) in the Champions' League and that was a great match with Dortmund winning 3-2. As far as I could see, none of the Dortmund goals were Freeman's fault, and his play seemed solid.

The Philadelphia Union vs Cincinnati MLS match was on FS1 today instead of just Apple TV, so I recorded and watched it. I was almost disappointed that a Cincy player was shown a red card early on (with the score 0-0) for a Balogun-style unintentional cleat-stomp. Technically the right call per VAR as often, but seemed harsh. It turned the match into a 5-0 laugher.

Cavan Sullivan had 2 assists, the first of which of was great and the second good, and could have had another. Ho hum. Another day at the office. His brother Quinn had a goal (on a penalty) and another assist. One of the Philly forwards scored 4 goals. Neil Pierre seemed solid - was never really challenged. Was kicked in the face as he bent towards a low corner, though that went uncalled and wasn't what caused the penalty, which was called seconds later on a different foul in the box.

Elsewhere in the MLS, Justin Ellis had another assist on one of Griezmann's 2 goals in Orlando's 3-2 road win. Ellis had nice touch as always on a give-and go with Griezmann for Orlando's third goal.

I noticed that Niko Tsakiris, a 21yo American who will turn 23 in 2028 (and thus is Olympic U-23 eligible) had a great match for the San Jose Earthquakes, handing San Diego their first home loss in something like 4 months, 3-2. You should watch the highlights, sluggo!



Tsakiris played the "10" (which fits, since he wears number 10) had a sparkling goal and 2 nice assists, hit the post on another shot, should have had a third assist, but did also have a penalty saved. I think he might be more of an "8" / box-to-box midfielder if he ever makes the USMNT, or at least on the U-23 Olympic team in 2028. I also think Tsakiris had surgery for an injury earlier this season and may just be rounding back into form. He may be a reason to actually watch the "local" Earthquakes team.

Some of the other young US prospects also played with Peyton Miller's New England Revolution with a 2-1 win over NYCFC and Adri Mehmeti and Julian Hall's RBNY losing 2-0. None of them had any goals or assists.

And just to go back across the pond, "my guy" (as sluggo called him), 25yo center back George Campbell, played the whole match captained West Brom to a 1-0 victory over Derby in the EFL Championship league, noteworthy because another West Brom player got a red card midway through the first half and West Brom still hung on to keep a clean sheet. I still think that if we can finally get Tim Ream and Miles Robinson off the roster as center backs, Campbell is a good candidate this cycle as backup to Chris Richards, Auston Trusty (and Alex Freeman if he plays center back). Him and/or Mackenzie. I guess until Neil Pierre is ready, and even then, Campbell may be the best backup.

OneKeg said:

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I'll have to watch the Barcelona highlights tomorrow, along with perhaps those of the 6-3 Chelsea/Leeds one in the English "Carabao Cup." I did watch Borussia Dortmund (with Mathis Albert on the bench) against Villareal (with US starter Alex Freeman playing the second half) in the Champions' League and that was a great match with Dortmund winning 3-2. As far as I could see, none of the Dortmund goals were Freeman's fault, and his play seemed solid.

The Philadelphia Union vs Cincinnati MLS match was on FS1 today instead of just Apple TV, so I recorded and watched it. I was almost disappointed that a Cincy player was shown a red card early on (with the score 0-0) for a Balogun-style unintentional cleat-stomp. Technically the right call per VAR as often, but seemed harsh. It turned the match into a 5-0 laugher.

Cavan Sullivan had 2 assists, the first of which of was great and the second good, and could have had another. Ho hum. Another day at the office. His brother Quinn had a goal (on a penalty) and another assist. One of the Philly forwards scored 4 goals. Neil Pierre seemed solid - was never really challenged. Was kicked in the face as he bent towards a low corner, though that went uncalled and wasn't what caused the penalty, which was called seconds later on a different foul in the box.

Elsewhere in the MLS, Justin Ellis had another assist on one of Griezmann's 2 goals in Orlando's 3-2 road win. Ellis had nice touch as always on a give-and go with Griezmann for Orlando's third goal.

I noticed that Niko Tsakiris, a 21yo American who will turn 23 in 2028 (and thus is Olympic U-23 eligible) had a great match for the San Jose Earthquakes, handing San Diego their first home loss in something like 4 months, 3-2. You should watch the highlights, sluggo!



Tsakiris played the "10" (which fits, since he wears number 10) had a sparkling goal and 2 nice assists, hit the post on another shot, should have had a third assist, but did also have a penalty saved. I think he might be more of an "8" / box-to-box midfielder if he ever makes the USMNT, or at least on the U-23 Olympic team in 2028. I also think Tsakiris had surgery for an injury earlier this season and may just be rounding back into form. He may be a reason to actually watch the "local" Earthquakes team.

Some of the other young US prospects also played with Peyton Miller's New England Revolution with a 2-1 win over NYCFC and Adri Mehmeti and Julian Hall's RBNY losing 2-0. None of them had any goals or assists.

And just to go back across the pond, "my guy" (as sluggo called him), 25yo center back George Campbell, played the whole match captained West Brom to a 1-0 victory over Derby in the EFL Championship league, noteworthy because another West Brom player got a red card midway through the first half and West Brom still hung on to keep a clean sheet. I still think that if we can finally get Tim Ream and Miles Robinson off the roster as center backs, Campbell is a good candidate this cycle as backup to Chris Richards, Auston Trusty (and Alex Freeman if he plays center back). Him and/or Mackenzie. I guess until Neil Pierre is ready, and even then, Campbell may be the best backup.

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Nice to see a long post by you. But lots to respond to.

George Campbell is always going to be "your guy" because I messed up his name and because he is the only guy you mentioned that I did not know. Recently I see USMNT accounts talking about him. Maybe he is something.

Did not realize there was an MLS midweek game, need to check into those.

Of course I know Tsakiris. I think he played in both of the last U20 WCs, once at 17, once at 19. He has great skill but is a bad athlete. He reminds me of Chris Mullin. I don't know if he is athletic enough for the USMNT, but I would like to see him given a shot. I like him better than the four Boro mediocrities. His highlights look great. Shmucky Bruce Arena does not play young guys, in general, so he has earned his place. I went to one Quakes game but he was out, I think you are right he was injured.

Barcelona was absolutely spectacular beating a Dutch team 5-1. They are the most exciting team for a season that I have ever seen, no hyperbole. You have to get away from thinking highlights are like watching a match. You need either ESPNPLUS (league games) or Paramount Plus (champions league games) to watch Barca play this year. I will Venmo you the money.

The roster for the first friendlies after the WC are coming out in like a week. I think many of the young guns will be called in. Can't wait.

60,000 fans watching Lewandowski vs Messi in the town that couldn't host the World Cup.

Great cross and finish, thanks for sharing.

Many cities passed on the World Cup including Chicago and Montreal because FIFA made some outrageous demands and played hardball with them. Really looking forward to their dumping that creep Infantino.

Was watching Bayern against Norwegian champs Bodo in early CL action yesterday at work, superb thunder volley by Davies (@ 1:34). Also loved the "business" celebration, very German, hehe. He had a phenomenal game, looks like the best North American player today:

Alphonso Davies great to see you back! ⚡️⚡️⚡️ pic.twitter.com/O8GhWJBLXT

— Goal Edge | Football Tips ♛ (@GoalEdgetipss) September 11, 2026

sluggo said:

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Barcelona was absolutely spectacular beating a Dutch team 5-1. They are the most exciting team for a season that I have ever seen, no hyperbole. You have to get away from thinking highlights are like watching a match. You need either ESPNPLUS (league games) or Paramount Plus (champions league games) to watch Barca play this year. I will Venmo you the money.

The roster for the first friendlies after the WC are coming out in like a week. I think many of the young guns will be called in. Can't wait.

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Yes - I saw that there are not going to be separate main and Olympic camps, but one combined camp with something like 30 players? Not sure if I got that right, but if so, I certainly hope and expect for at least our "top 6" youngsters (in no particular order, Z. Gozo, C. Sullivan, N. Pierre, A. Mehmeti, J. Ellis, M. Albert) to be there along with perhaps a couple others (like P. Miller, J. Hall).

Ha, thank you but I can't let you give me money. I think my wife will refuse to give Paramount money directly for reasons related what she (and perhaps I) perceive as their politics, or else I might have Paramount+ already to watch Middlesbrough play (not because of the 4 mediocre Americans now on the roster, but because they have been my EFL team for a while now). Some champions league matches are on channels I already get anyway (like Dortmund-Villareal was). I will seriously look into getting ESPN+. Certainly for Barcelona, but it would also let me catch other La Liga matches, such as Freeman with Villareal. I think my wife is ok giving Disney money, even though in my mind, I don't care for any of these companies! =)

OneKeg said:

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sluggo said:

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Barcelona was absolutely spectacular beating a Dutch team 5-1. They are the most exciting team for a season that I have ever seen, no hyperbole. You have to get away from thinking highlights are like watching a match. You need either ESPNPLUS (league games) or Paramount Plus (champions league games) to watch Barca play this year. I will Venmo you the money.

The roster for the first friendlies after the WC are coming out in like a week. I think many of the young guns will be called in. Can't wait.

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Yes - I saw that there are not going to be separate main and Olympic camps, but one combined camp with something like 30 players? Not sure if I got that right, but if so, I certainly hope and expect for at least our "top 6" youngsters (in no particular order, Z. Gozo, C. Sullivan, N. Pierre, A. Mehmeti, J. Ellis, M. Albert) to be there along with perhaps a couple others (like P. Miller, J. Hall).

Ha, thank you but I can't let you give me money. I think my wife will refuse to give Paramount money directly for reasons related what she (and perhaps I) perceive as their politics, or else I might have Paramount+ already to watch Middlesbrough play (not because of the 4 mediocre Americans now on the roster, but because they have been my EFL team for a while now). Some champions league matches are on channels I already get anyway (like Dortmund-Villareal was). I will seriously look into getting ESPN+. Certainly for Barcelona, but it would also let me catch other La Liga matches, such as Freeman with Villareal. I think my wife is ok giving Disney money, even though in my mind, I don't care for any of these companies! =)

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Some players may rest and fight for positions. I think Gozo is most likely. Mathis is a deep sub so he is possible. I think the MLS guys will make it. Would love to see Tsakiris.

The Paramount merger is tied up in court. This is the year to get it for champions league. I give money to media/tech companies that I don't like, too.

I am about to watch Reyna live starting for the first time in years. Excited.

Hope you enjoyed the Strasbourg - Monaco match. Looks like it ended 1-1, Monaco's first draw of the season after winning their first 3 (all without Balogun). I saw that Reyna played most of the match, and left with maybe ten minutes left, with the score already 1-1. Strasbourg's goal was a Monaco own goal?

In the Serie A, AC Milan went down 2-0 at Lazio, who had been similarly perfect. Then Pulisic and Musuh, who were both on the bench, come in at halftime, Musuh replacing Modric, who seems to be getting too old. Milan comes storming back to earn a 2-2 draw. Pulisic with an assist.

And for the average Americans in Middlesbrough, Sebastian Berhalter scored twice in Boro's 4-3 win over Norwich in the EFL Championship League. In an other Championship league match, my guy George Campbell and West Brom draw 1-1 with Queens Park Rangers, with QPR's goal being an own goal.

In the Premier League, Crystal Palace with Richards on the back line lose again, this time 3-2 to Ipswich (a Palace player got a red card). Gozo did get in at the very end of the match. Mathis Albert makes the bench again in Dortmund's easy Bundesliga win.

OneKeg said:

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Hope you enjoyed the Strasbourg - Monaco match. Looks like it ended 1-1, Monaco's first draw of the season after winning their first 3 (all without Balogun). I saw that Reyna played most of the match, and left with maybe ten minutes left, with the score already 1-1.

In the Serie A, AC Milan went down 2-0 at Lazio, who had been similarly perfect. Then Pulisic and Musuh, who were both on the bench, come in at halftime, Musuh replacing Modric, who seems to be getting too old. Milan comes storming back to earn a 2-2 draw. Pulisic with an assist.

And for the average Americans in Middlesbrough, Sebastian Berhalter scored twice in Boro's 4-3 win over Norwich in the EFL Championship League.

In the Premier League, Crystal Palace with Richards on the back line lose again, this time 3-2 to Ipswich (a Palace player got a red card). Gozo did get in at the very end of the match. Mathis Albert makes the bench again in Dortmund's easy win.

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Reyna was himself in the game. Nice passing and ball control. Strasbourg is less athletic than better teams in the French league, and they try to make up for it by playing ball control, which fits Reyna. Monaco is a good team, so this result is good. I hope he keeps his starting spot.

I think Gozo may be in a little trouble with his team struggling.

Albert is not good enough right now for Dortmund. He is only 17, but he needs a big offseason or to drop down a level.

Ellis with another assist tonight. He is tied for tenth with 9 assists, but he has only played 17 games. Not sure if MLS still does hockey assists, but this was a real one. For some reason he came off the bench.

Had to come here because my eyes are still recovering from that Cal-Syracuse game. Was just going to post about Ellis having another assist.

I think Orlando played Ellis and Griezmann so little because they have a midweek US Open Cup semifinal coming up, so they were rotating their lineup. Ellis actually came in *replacing* Griezmann at the 70' mark. It worked out with the 3-0 win anyway.

Also, re: Zavier Gozo and Crystal Palace, maybe Gozo will get playing time in the Europa League group stage matches that Palace is in, with one being later this coming week (Thu. I think).

I admit, I don't get how they are even in the Europa League after finishing well down in the lower half of the premier league table last season, but they are.

LOL - sluggo, I'm sure you saw Cavan Sullivan's brace today as Philadelphia won 5-0 again, this time on the road and without the benefit of today's opponents (San Diego) being down to 10 men as Philly's opponents were in the Union's previous 5-0 win.

Sullivan's first goal was a ridiculously audacious reverse side-heel flick off a centering pass on a fast break when he was surrounded by defenders who might block a less deceptive shot. His second was a run through a small gap and nutmeg of the goalie at a tight angle. These were Philly's first two goals.

Sullivan also had a hockey assist not in the stats, cutting into the middle on a controlled break to draw a defender, then passing outside right to Frankie Westfield who drove and crossed it for the assist to a Philly forward and a 3-0 lead. Rough match for the San Diego's youth prospect goalie Duran Ferree who was the starter due to San Diego's normal starting goalie getting a red card in their previous match.

Didn't notice Neil Pierre much at center back - may not have had much to do. He came off in the 86th minute with Philly up 3-0, same as Sullivan (77th minute). 17yo striker Malik Yakupovic came on at the end to get Philly's 5th goal (and his first at the MLS level, I think), of a cross from Quinn Sullivan, I think.

Peyton Miller also scored in New England's 2-1 win at Chicago, playing right wing instead of left wing this time. A solid goal where he showed off his speed off ball down the middle on a long 3-on-3 counterattack and then throttled down to stay onside and tap in a cross from the left wing. Though he probably lacks the on-ball dribbling and play-making talent you'd want in an actual USMNT wing, I think Miller's other skills, especially his speed, make him a good USMNT fullback prospect.

Yes I missed the Barca match again today. No time to watch a full match anyway for a couple days. Will watch highlights (yeah, I know, I know).

OneKeg said:

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LOL - sluggo, I'm sure you saw Cavan Sullivan's brace today as Philadelphia won 5-0 again, this time on the road and without the benefit of today's opponents (San Diego) being down to 10 men as Philly's opponents were in the Union's previous 5-0 win.

Sullivan's first goal was a ridiculously audacious reverse side-heel flick off a centering pass on a fast break when he was surrounded by defenders who might block a less deceptive shot. His second was a run through a small gap and nutmeg of the goalie at a tight angle. These were Philly's first two goals.

Sullivan also had a hockey assist not in the stats, cutting into the middle on a controlled break to draw a defender, then passing outside right to Frankie Westfield who drove and crossed it for the assist to a Philly forward and a 3-0 lead. Rough match for the San Diego's youth prospect goalie Duran Ferree who was the starter due to San Diego's normal starting goalie getting a red card in their previous match.

Didn't notice Neil Pierre much at center back - may not have had much to do. He came off in the 86th minute with Philly up 3-0, same as Sullivan (77th minute). 17yo striker Malik Yakupovic came on at the end to get Philly's 5th goal (and his first at the MLS level, I think), of a cross from Quinn Sullivan, I think.

Peyton Miller also scored in New England's 2-1 win at Chicago, playing right wing instead of left wing this time. A solid goal where he showed off his speed off ball down the middle on a long 3-on-3 counterattack and then throttled down to stay onside and tap in a cross from the left wing. Though he probably lacks the on-ball dribbling and play-making talent you'd want in an actual USMNT wing, I think Miller's other skills, especially his speed, make him a good USMNT fullback prospect.

Yes I missed the Barca match again today. No time to watch a full match anyway for a couple days. Will watch highlights (yeah, I know, I know).

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Sullivan's first goal was magnificent. See below. I have only seen Haaland pull that off, although I am sure others have done it. Right now Sullivan is the best American player. I know that sounds ridiculous, but Pulisic and Donovan were similarly the best at 17, so why can't Sullivan be at two weeks from 17? He needs the celebrity girlfriend now for cross over impact. I don't know who the candidates would be, but don't think he has not thought about it, he is very calculated, including last week throwing chalk after scoring to try to interest LeBron. Pierre made one blunder and missed a goal scoring header opportunity, but was still strong. He beat a player in the box off the dribble to almost set up a goal.

Barca is still undefeated and untied and glorious.

ARE YOU SERIOUS

WHAT A FINISH BY CAVAN SULLIVAN 🤯💫 pic.twitter.com/6Md2kJSibW

— American Ultras Talk (@usmntaut) September 14, 2026

Yeah, Cavan Sullivan's elite quality and fierce competitiveness is getting hard to ignore. There is zero question remaining that he should be part of the upcoming Sept-Oct USMNT camp and get playing time in more than one of the four friendlies.

So speaking of the Sept-Oct USMNT camp, let's talk what we expect the roster to look like now that we're closer and we know (I think) that the roster size will be large (30-ish? So lots of depth at every position). Let me take a shot, kind of mixing what I think will happen with what I want to happen. This also includes Poch being quoted as saying he wants to let those getting playing time at new clubs (like maybe the Boro 4) stay with their clubs. Let me know what you think - am I forgetting anyone obvious?

(Assumes a 4-2-3-1, so Freeman is a right fullback, not a center back.)

Goalkeeper (4):
GK1: Matt Freese (28yo) - would love for this to not be true, but Freese may still be the best US goalie despite the Belgium debacle. Speaks to the title of this thread.
GK2: Brian Schwake (25yo) - this is my place-holder for "insert decent, relatively young MLS goalie here," unfortunately. Not that I think Schwake is the answer.
GK3: Chris Brady (22yo) - ok I would not pick Brady, but I think Pochettino will, given evidence thus far. I would prefer to move Kochen to GK3 and try an even younger player at GK4, maybe 19yo Duran Ferree, despite him getting toasted by Sullivan and Philadelphia Union this weekend.
GK4: Diego Kochen (20yo) - getting plenty of playing time as mostly a starter for Lyngby in a weak (Danish) league and doing... ok? Hard to tell.

This position would benefit so much this cycle from the US successfully recruiting 23yo Japanese dual-nat Brandon Taishi Nozawa, a good young player who might instantly be the best US goalie, but is stuck behind an elite one for Japan in Suzuki (also a US dual-nat I think? But now cap-tied to Japan).

Center Back (5):
CB1: Chris Richards (26yo) - not playing well for a struggling Crystal Palace, but you still have to put him here.
CB2: Auston Trusty (28yo) - don't know how well he's playing for Celtic, and takes some of the blame for their crashing out of the Champions League, but you still have to put him here given what he showed in the World Cup.
CB3: Neil Pierre (18yo) - have to see what this kid can do (and nice to cap-tie him in case Haiti comes calling).
CB4: Mark Mackenzie (27yo) - not very good, but better than Tim Ream (at this stage) and Miles Robinson (always)
CB5: George Campbell (25yo) - my guy!

Note: I think Noahki Banks has said he is not ready to commit to the US. I wonder if he will ever be.

Outside Back / Fullback (5):
FB1: Alex Freeman (22yo) - no brainer at right fullback.
FB2: Antonee Robinson (29yo) - may be his last cycle, but we currently have no better starting left fullback.
FB3: Joe Scally (23yo) - meh but we have limited options.
FB4: Peyton Miller (18yo) - playing wing in the MLS even though he lacks the on-ball skills and playmaking to be a good winger, but his speed makes him a good left back candidate to back up ARob.
FB5: Luca Bombino (20yo) - ok, this is a reach... but I picked Bombino as a prospect because he got out of the MLS and is playing for Stoke City in the Championship and getting some minutes. Could put Tim Weah here instead, and that would let Cole Campbell stay on at winger (see below).

Holding Midfielder (5):
HM1: Malik Tillman (24yo) - not playing well in the Bundesliga, but he played well here in the World Cup and needs to be our top guy at the "8".
HM2: Yunus Musuh (23yo) - playing very well for AC Milan. I'd like for him to take Tyler Adams' spot as our top "6".
HM3: Tyler Adams (27yo) - another guy not playing well for his club, but he's still got to be on the roster.
HM4: Adri Mehmeti (17yo) - a great young prospect whose great ball control and playmaking may make him better as he moves up in level.
HM5: Niko Tsakiris (21yo) - I went back and forth between putting Tsakiris or 24yo Tanner Tessmann here.

Note that 24yo Johnny Cardoso would be on this list but is just working his way back from injury for Atletico Madrid, so I am leaving him off for this break. 24yo Giancarlo Busio got injured for Venezia, so he's also out (might not have been on anyway). I am taking Poch at his word that he's keeping guys playing at new clubs with their clubs, so no Berhalter or Morris from Middlesbrough here, for example, until the next break.

Offensive Midfield / Winger (7):
OMW1: Cavan Sullivan (will be 17yo at camp) - yeah OMW1! I agree, sluggo. It's time. Especially with McKennie and probably Pulisic out for now.
OMW2: Serginio Dest (25yo) - still our best right flank guy for now.
OMW3: Gio Reyna (23yo) - been discussed to death.
OMW4: Brenden Aaronson (25yo) - probably our starting left wing if I assume we rest Pulisic (which I am)
OMW5: Zavier Gozo (19yo) - needs playing time but not getting much for Crystal Palace, so let's give him time here.
OMW6: Mathis Albert (17yo) - needs playing time but not getting it for Dortmund, so let's give him time here.
OMW7: Cole Campbell (20yo) - another flyer, but the guy is getting significant minutes in the Bundesliga for a club that is doing decently. Let's see if he has anything beyond speed.

Ok, if I'm being real, 26yo Tim Weah will be on the roster here, so let's say no Cole Campbell at OMW7. Or keep Campbell and put Weah in at backup right fullback instead of Bombino.

Assuming no Mckennie (injured) or Pulisic (coming back from injury).

Striker (4): (couple of these guys may also play a wing or the "10", or be a "false 9")
STR1: Folarin Balogun (25yo) - in limbo with his club Monaco, but he's the best US striker.
STR2: Justin Ellis (19yo) - putting him above Pepi here. Could play alongside Balogun in a 4-4-2 or 3-5-2. Let's cap-tie him to the US before he gets tempted by Uruguay.
STR3: Ricardo Pepi (23yo) - disappointing at the World Cup level, but still a top 3 striker for the USMNT given that Haji Wright is injured.
STR4: Julian Hall (18yo) - might as well see what he can do (with Wright injured) and show Hall as much love as Poland has.

I believe that is 30. Comments welcome! Who did I forget? Who am I way off on?

https://sports.yahoo.com/articles/philadelphia-union-star-cavan-sullivan-211055067.html

$324,000 for his rookie card!

Sullivan has signed with Man. City?

https://www.theguardian.com/football/2026/sep/08/cavan-sullivan-analyisis-mls-philadelphia-union

Current Status and Career Details

• Age & Club: 16-year-old midfielder playing for the Philadelphia Union.
• The Man City Agreement: Signed a homegrown deal in 2024 containing a future transfer clause to join Manchester City upon turning 18 in September 2027.
• Recent Form: Recently scored his first career brace in a 5-0 win against San Diego FC, bringing him to 5 goals in his last 5 matches.
• Records: Made history as the youngest-ever player to debut in MLS at 14 years and 293 days old. [1, 2, 3, 4]

Cal88 said:

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Sullivan has signed with Man. City?

https://www.theguardian.com/football/2026/sep/08/cavan-sullivan-analyisis-mls-philadelphia-union

Current Status and Career Details

• Age & Club: 16-year-old midfielder playing for the Philadelphia Union.
• The Man City Agreement: Signed a homegrown deal in 2024 containing a future transfer clause to join Manchester City upon turning 18 in September 2027.
• Recent Form: Recently scored his first career brace in a 5-0 win against San Diego FC, bringing him to 5 goals in his last 5 matches.
• Records: Made history as the youngest-ever player to debut in MLS at 14 years and 293 days old. [1, 2, 3, 4]

---

Thanks for the article. That was great.

I just looked up Sullivan's wiki, violating my no research rule for this thread. It says his mother is German-Bangladeshi, which means that maybe Sullivan can go to Europe at 16 instead of the typical 18. The reason I mention that is that I think he might develop bad habits in MLS. He has too much time on the ball because the defenders back off, they are scared to death of him. The only question about him in my mind is what he can pull off when he is under pressure by real defenders, not the guys who play in MLS. I think MLS has better attackers than defenders.

As to his playing style, despite being short, left footed and playing the same position as Messi (despite what the article says, they both play sort of an inverted right wing), their games are nothing alike. Messi beats players with quick feet and simple moves. He could probably do any trick, but he does not need to, even as he approaches 40. Sullivan is more of a constructed player as his feet are quick but not at the top level. He has more moves than anyone I have ever seen. He reminds me of Bernardo Silva who spent his best years at Man City but I guess has moved on to Real Madrid this year. Silva was never really appreciated, but I think he was top 10 in the world in his prime. Sullivan should fit in great at City.

Great job! This is good as anything I have read on the internet.

I like Roman Celentano as a keeper over the backup MLS guys I have seen. I think it is time to see what Kochen has. His star has dimmed somewhat in the last two years. In my heart I know Brady sucks. I have never seen the other MLS guy you mention.

I don't think Julian Hall is good enough, although he is okay and striker is a thin position, especially with Wright hurt and Balogun not playing right now. One player who is good enough is Taha Habroune who plays attacking midfield for Columbus. I would like to see him get a look. He is very tricky on the ball and passes well but is not much of an athlete.

One interesting thing on Sullivan is that wikipedia lists him at 121 pounds. In the last year he has built muscle on top of muscle. I suspect he is 150 or 160 now. I do hope in the future that soccer is the goto sport for smaller great athletes like Pulisic and Sullivan. They are both from soccer families but you wonder what they would have done if not.

Any chance Sullivan plays for Germany given that his mother is German? Quick answer says he's committed to the Stars and Stripes:

Cavan Sullivan is eligible to play for Germany through his mother, but he has publicly stated his intention to represent the United States. [1, 2, 3, 4]

Eligibility and Status

• German Heritage: Sullivan holds German citizenship and a passport through his mother, Heike, making him fully eligible for the German national team setup. [1, 2, 3, 4]
• Scouting Interest: The German Football Association (DFB) has monitored and scouted the Philadelphia Union midfielder for their youth ranks. [1, 2]
• USMNT Commitment: When asked about playing for Germany, Sullivan responded, "I want to win the World Cup with the USA. So that's all I've got to say." He has also represented the U.S. at youth levels.

Cal88 said:

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Any chance Sullivan plays for Germany given that his mother is German? Quick answer says he's committed to the Stars and Stripes:

Cavan Sullivan is eligible to play for Germany through his mother, but he has publicly stated his intention to represent the United States. [1, 2, 3, 4]

Eligibility and Status

• German Heritage: Sullivan holds German citizenship and a passport through his mother, Heike, making him fully eligible for the German national team setup. [1, 2, 3, 4]
• Scouting Interest: The German Football Association (DFB) has monitored and scouted the Philadelphia Union midfielder for their youth ranks. [1, 2]
• USMNT Commitment: When asked about playing for Germany, Sullivan responded, "I want to win the World Cup with the USA. So that's all I've got to say." He has also represented the U.S. at youth levels.

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Only if he wants me to stab myself.

He is very Philly, and I doubt he speaks German. He has also played for the US U-17, so he would have to file a one time switch. But I guess it is theoretically possible though unlikely.

He wants to be the guy in the US. He has a plan. I am not worried.

Interesting background, from a Bangladesh newspaper:

https://www.dhakatribune.com/sport/football/346257/us-soccer-sensation-sullivan%E2%80%99s-bangladeshi

sluggo said:

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Great job! This is good as anything I have read on the internet.

I like Roman Celentano as a keeper over the backup MLS guys I have seen. I think it is time to see what Kochen has. His star has dimmed somewhat in the last two years. In my heart I know Brady sucks. I have never seen the other MLS guy you mention.

I don't think Julian Hall is good enough, although he is okay and striker is a thin position, especially with Wright hurt and Balogun not playing right now. One player who is good enough is Taha Habroune who plays attacking midfield for Columbus. I would like to see him get a look. He is very tricky on the ball and passes well but is not much of an athlete.

---

Thanks!

Well it looks like the one of the US Open Cup semifinals tomorrow (Wed. 9/16) will feature a couple players of interest then. Columbus hosting Orlando. It's on CBS Sports Net, so I'm planning to record it.

Justin Ellis for Orlando of course (hopefully he plays), and then Columbus may play Taha Habroune, who you mentioned.

On the USMNT camp, the more I think about Pochettino's public statements, the more I think Zavier Gozo won't be part of the camp after all, since he is new to Crystal Palace. Which would be too bad. Probably the same for my young prospect flyer pick at left fullback, Luca Bombino who just transferred to Stoke City in the EFL Championship League.

Couple other players I did not include in my list who I wanted your opinion on, one of whom I'm sure you know about and the other you may not.

The one I'm sure you know about, speaking of Stoke City, is 23yo Jack McGlynn. He seems to be starting and had a great goal with his off (right) foot on Saturday - see video below (McGlynn is #7). Kind of the opposite of Cole Campbell? Has some skill but may not be fast enough?



The one you may not know about is 21yo Santiago Castaneda who is also starting and by all accounts playing well in a top 5 league: for Paderborn in the German Bundesliga.

Any thoughts on them?

OneKeg said:

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sluggo said:

---

Great job! This is good as anything I have read on the internet.

I like Roman Celentano as a keeper over the backup MLS guys I have seen. I think it is time to see what Kochen has. His star has dimmed somewhat in the last two years. In my heart I know Brady sucks. I have never seen the other MLS guy you mention.

I don't think Julian Hall is good enough, although he is okay and striker is a thin position, especially with Wright hurt and Balogun not playing right now. One player who is good enough is Taha Habroune who plays attacking midfield for Columbus. I would like to see him get a look. He is very tricky on the ball and passes well but is not much of an athlete.

---

Thanks!

Well it looks like the one of the US Open Cup semifinals tomorrow (Wed. 9/16) will feature a couple players of interest then. Columbus hosting Orlando. It's on CBS Sports Net, so I'm planning to record it.

Justin Ellis for Orlando of course (hopefully he plays), and then Columbus may play Taha Habroune, who you mentioned.

On the USMNT camp, the more I think about Pochettino's public statements, the more I think Zavier Gozo won't be part of the camp after all, since he is new to Crystal Palace. Which would be too bad. Probably the same for my young prospect flyer pick at left fullback, Luca Bombino who just transferred to Stoke City in the EFL Championship League.

Couple other players I did not include in my list who I wanted your opinion on, one of whom I'm sure you know about and the other you may not.

The one I'm sure you know about, speaking of Stoke City, is 23yo Jack McGlynn. He seems to be starting and had a great goal with his off (right) foot on Saturday - see video below (McGlynn is #7). Kind of the opposite of Cole Campbell? Has some skill but may not be fast enough?



The one you may not know about is 21yo Santiago Castaneda who is also starting and by all accounts playing well in a top 5 league: for Paderborn in the German Bundesliga.

Any thoughts on them?

---

McGlynn has the best left foot of anyone around the USMNT. The rest of his game is garbage, including that he is slow and unathletic, with the second flaw worse than the first. He is a guy to play for 15 minutes in a tied game where the other team is bunkering. Or against bad opponents. But his upside is very limited. I heard his dad, who is a coach, interviewed, and he sort of talked about his son not being very good. They are from NYC, so that makes sense. I lived there for eight years and it made me how I am.

The weakness in my mental database is German Americans. Or Colombian-Americans playing in Germany (I did check wikipedia, again violating my no research rule). I know nothing about him nor have I read anything about him on the internet. He does seem more American than most Americans playing in Germany. But it has been awhile since anyone playing in Germany broke through. The bottom of the Bundesliga is now trash, as is the bottom of all other leagues that are not the Premier league.

I don't know who your kind of player is. I like players who are either very quick like Gozo or players who are smart and highly skilled like Ellis. Habroune is the latter. Bombino is such a replacement level player. Frankie Westfield is just okay, but he is Sullivan's buddy and has a great attitude and crosses better than most American outside backs, although he still does not cross well enough. I think he should be their outside back to be named later.

CBS Sports Network might be the only channel I don't have. Although maybe I get it through Paramount Plus. I guess I sometimes struggle with obscure Fox soccer channels and one Spanish network (TUDN?). Life is too short to miss games one wants badly to see.