And there’s not just like, one guy at MLS responsible for it that is unable to do anything about player development because his hands are tied dealing with the schedule change. The league gave multiple reasons why the schedule change made sense, including but not limited to, lining up the international windows. It a solution to multiple problems and had no bearing on any desicion related to player development. They could fix whatever player development issues you think there are tomorrow if they thought they were truly a problem.
I saw a headline about this on the Athletic but didn’t read the article - I’ll believe it when I see it, otherwise it’s just a plant from his agent imho.
His agent sucks if the "plant" is about the Fire. He should plant rumors about Barcelona or Real Madrid or Saudi Arabia or that "retirement league" in Italy, at least.
Not disagreeing but how many times have you seen MLS and Saudi Arabia mentioned together when discussing possible player destinations? Might be people throughout the world ( and USA?) think Americans have unlimited amounts of money.
Perhaps, but that is pretty damned strange. I do think MLS is only mentioned together when they are discussing an over-the-hill star, while Saudi Arabia has been a destination for some younger players (including Duran) Considering that no MLS team has ever been in the top, what, 500 in transfer fees paid? The average salary in the EPL (which sucks) is about $4.2 million. That would put the average player in the top 10 MLS player salaries. La Liga is $ 3,369,474 Bundesliga is $2,672,614. Serie A is $ 2,343,264 MLS is $575,890.00 https://www.capology.com/uk/premier-league/salaries/
Alternate idea. People think MLS and Saudi Arabia overpay for players. It does seem like I have seen “ player rumored to be going to MLS or Saudis” a lot.
I would LOVE Salah with the Fire...take that shit to the Optimism thread! Also...regarding USL...I enjoy watching USL for simply the sport. Like many sports anymore I am finding more and more I enjoy the 'lower' calibre leagues then the pros. I think USA soccer is not as interested in bringing players up anymore to feed MLS. I think they only think about it in terms of the national team (and thus maybe Not MLS). Thus I do not think they worry about too many players making it up the ladder like minor league teams in baseball. Yes some do make it via the lower leagues...but I no longer look at the Fire sending players to other clubs to get better and become starters for the Fire. I think they send players because they want a way to get rid of them...or to get minutes to be able to sell them for more money.
Been looking at roster due to upcoming MLS events. Every time I look, it strikes me that the Barroso acquisition has potential to be a very lucrative deal. The acquisition fee is pretty well-documented at $ 1,437,800. I have seen no indication of a sell-on fee. He signed a 4 year contract with 2025 total compensation of $345,500. The calculated budget charge is (1,437,800/4 + 345,500) only $704,950. The U22 designation is not even necessary. In fact, he is not even a TAM player. The U22 tag plus his injuries kept him off the radar screen and is probably why there is little notice of this bargain price.
https://www.mlssoccer.com/news/2025-mls-free-agency-eligible-player-list https://www.mlssoccer.com/news/2025-mls-end-of-year-waivers-list https://www.mlssoccer.com/news/mls-free-agency-tiers-top-players-available-for-2026
Even though he has an option the Homegrown portion of his deal is probably expiring so his cap hit would rise. Still, it's surprising they're letting him walk. He was in their very first academy team.
When you cook a really good soup or stew, it is paramount you let it simmer a little so the ingredients meld together and develop a new, better flavor
A major reason Franco was such a good fit was his ability to progress the ball upfield and distribute it. I see no evidence that Haak is anywhere near Franco on these skills.
I think you mean we need his play connecting defense with offense. At least, that is how I see it. We upgraded the defense a lot already but have done nothing to connect the rows. Or are you planning on a 7-3 formation?
Of course if we could find another two way player like Franco, we should sign him. But if not, we need a stopper and connection between the defense and attack.
My read is Anton Saletros is the 'other two way player"...and we still need a stopper and connection between the defense and the attack. Based on youtube videos, he looks like a more defensive Franco....and he will wear #6, which even if you are an 'experienced 8' brings some expectation with it. 3 DMs? D'avilla, Pineda....and....? Maaaaybe Saletros is the 3rd, but that's not clear. Kinda hope so, so we can use the DP on an attacker
Old Coach -I posted 11-30 One reason why I am advocating a high-quality- CAM who can also play in front row ( Bogusz- like)