Normally I start this thread the moment the secondary transfer window slams shut, but since we're already in on it within the 2025 thread it's time. Osorio & Shokalook did not play this weekend as well. All the players who played over the weekend are under contract for 2026. I presume many of the others may have club options but I would be very surprised if more than 1-2 return. We all have thoughts, mine will come soon.
Your input is much appreciated, as usual. Did not mean to jump the gun but you know what they say about idle minds. One of the good things about lots of available talent is you have lots of choices when constructing your squad. It also means you have to make some painful choices. Fire II and Fire I will be facing that quandary between now and start of 2026 season.
The thread just started. Not sure why my mentioning expectations of 2026 in a thread about the 2026 roster is an issue. Apologies.
It just hit me. Could have had a poll guessing how many transfers in + transfers out the Fire complete by roster freeze date ( Friday, Sept 12).
Just saw the story that Wes McKennie will be running out his current contract ending 6-26 rather than signing an extension. Hmmmm………
Query for Tim H, Alex C or anybody else in the know- In most of the soccer world, the players have to consent to a transfer to another team. MLS is a “single-entity” and, at least in early years, because the players contracts were with MLS (not the club) the transfer could occur without player consent when it involved only MLS clubs. In that case, the existing contract remains in force. Of course, players could be happy with the contract. Is this still allowed? If yes, does it occur frequently? Thinking about the Waterman transfer raises this question? He signed a new three year contract at start of season. FIFA “ strongly discourages/forbids” forced transfers but apparently MLS has been allowed this practice. Not exactly the way to endear the team to a new player. Of course, players could retaliate with poor performance.
Let’s talk about international slots- They are very much a part of the league. Saw an article a while back stating 56% of MLS players were born outside US. Could be higher now. 8 slots per team is the league allotment. Teams are allowed to transfer them for a year ar a time. Number utilized varies widely. Per MLS official Roster Profiles as of 3-5-25, Seattle used only three, NYCFC and Colorado 5 and Cincinnati, Houston, Kansas City, Nashville and San Jose 6. On the other side of the ledger, Real SL and LA Galaxy list 14 followed by LAFC, Miami, NY Red Bulls, Toronto 13 and Dallas 12. Fire had 8 then, subsequently added 4- D’Avilla (April) and Franco, Radojevic and Waterman (August). Current Fire number of internationals ( not slots in use) is 12. Koutsias and Glasgow are loaned on terms relieving the need for international slot. The Fire have purchased 2025 international slots from other teams to supplement their 8 and cover the 10 needed slots. At year end, Fire may have as many as 12. Or not. Koutsias may be sold, Glasgow may be loaned out again. The loans on Franco and Kouame expire and the Fire may choose not to exercise the purchase option. Or entirely new acquisitions may increase the need for international slots. Just another item that GGG and crew will need to address.
And US Citizens who have naturalized. And Canadians! Toronto, Montreal and Vancouver are positively crawling with Canadians!
Obvious solution. Does require player cooperation/desire. Apparently no new ones obtained during 2025. Not trying to make it into a major problem, just providing information and noting the need.
Phoenix Rising signs Rafa Czichos thru 2926 season. Unlikely he will make as much as Gonzalez. Who would you prefer? Of course, Rafa probably wanted a team where he could actually play.
Through 2926! Holy crap. A 901 year contract. They must really like him! I would prefer him on the Fire, but for the better part of the millennium!