A quick rundown of some of the latest MLS news:
- Story I: Bruce Arena named LA Galaxy coach and GM.
- Futbol Insider’s Take: This is a mixed-bag choice. On the one hand getting perhaps the most accomplished US coach in the middle of an MLS season seems like a coup for the dysfunctional Galaxy. Of course, Arena’s brief stint with the Red Bulls coming off the heels of a disappointing 2006 World Cup campaign makes one wonder if Arena can really make a difference. Also, don’t underestimate the significance of handing the GM duties to Arena as well. Given the salary cap constraints and fledgling youth development system, finding quality, inexpensive talent is a premium in MLS. After all, the Galaxy’s problem is not how Beckham or Donovan are playing but rather how poorly its less heralded players, particularly the defenders, are performing.
- Story II: Maurice Edu to Glascow Rangers for $5 million transfer fee.
- Futbol Insider’s Take: Excellent move for Edu and MLS. Whether it is as a defender or midfielder, there is no doubt Edu has the goods to compete in Europe’s highest levels. And starting off with a respected, tradition rich club where another US teammate already stars is a solid choice. Also, MLS secures a respectable transfer fee for a 2nd year player with limited national team experience. More important, MLS continues to show elite youth prospects that it can serve as a springboard to Europe.
- Story III: MLS adds two young players, Johann Smith and Will Johnson. Smith, the 21 year old striker, has been allocated to Toronto FC while where Johnson ends up remains a mystery.
- Futbol Insider’s Take: Hopefully this is a sign of things to come for MLS–convincing young North American players a return across the pond is a positive career choice. Smith was one of the most promising US players heading into the U-20 World Cup. If not for a pre-tournament injury, Smith would have started ahead of Sal Zizzo. As for Johnson, the Canadian 21 year old forward comes to MLS after stint with Michael Bradley’s Dutch team, Heerenveen. At the Olympic qualifying tournament, Johnson was one of the best players, amongst a group that included Giovanni Dos Santos, Freddy Adu and Jozy Altidore. Though Smith still has plenty of raw talent that needs to be developed (think of Marvell Wynne speed with slightly better skills), Johnson is more of a finished product capable of making major contributions right away in MLS.
- Story IV: Kasey Keller to Seattle Sounders FC.
- Futbol Insider’s Take: As much of a no-brainer as there can be, frankly. Unlike other positions where bringing in aging national team players often backfires (e.g. Claudio Reyna), goalkeeper is the one position where you can still get quality performances. And given Keller’s history in the Pacific Northwest coupled with his interest to join the front office one day and perhaps put his money where his mount is, you can rest assured Keller will be a great ambassador. Smart of MLS and Seattle to put a recognizable soccer face behind the fledging franchise. No offense to Drew Carey, of course.
