Deep thoughts about MLS moves

Alright folks, as most of you can tell, my blog thrives on interviews and analysis from experts and fans. But while I am waiting on replies to my flurries of questions, I will, from time to time, offer my own take on MLS.

The last few weeks have given risen to some interesting developments in what is sure to be an action packed off season-- so here are my thoughts on the recent trades and moves around MLS:


Move #1: Ruiz to Galaxy:

The audacity of this trade has actually put me at ease, for the Galaxy's role in MLS
is now abundantly clear: the team we love to hate. Baseball has the Yankees, the NASL
had the Cosmos and now it is Alexi Lalas and CO's turn to be the "super rival" for every
club in MLS—which makes their struggles on the pitch all the more amusing.

This trade also tells me Lalas will be pulling the strings in LA for time. While undoubtedly talented, is also a polarizing figure which I am sure also played in to trade. Even with Ruiz grandfathered in however, I fail to see how the Galaxy could fit his salary under the cap. In final analysis however, the fact that the Galaxy even tried to land Ruiz says they will inevitably land an expensive DPish type forward (possible Zurwaski from Celtic). Whoever comes on board is in for some abuse come next season.

Move #2: Boswell to Houston/Wells and draft pick to United

My first thought about this trade was something is in the kool-aid over at United. On paper, the trade of the 2006 defender of the year for a back up goalkeeper and a draft pick looks like an absolute steal for Houston. On the other hand, United—whose scouting system is amongst the best in MLS-- it could well be preparing to sign a foreign defender after their recent scouting trip to South America.

For United, this move would actually pay dividends if this can be done with the money saved from Perkin’s sale and salary. In Wells, they are getting a proven starter hungry for playing time, while the offloading an unhappy player. In final analysis, United will now certainly shell out for a central defender and possibly a fullback before next season to shore up an aging backline.

Move #3: Osorio to NYRB:

This move is a winner for both Osorio and the Red Bulls, Chicago got hosed. Going back to the situation with the Galaxy, the best talent and coaching will inevitably gravitate towards the money and prestige, leading to a greater disparity in style of play and personnel.

While this fact must be particularly frustrating for Chicago fans at the moment, they have been left with a solid team and a system that works. For the Red Bulls, the search continues for a playmaking midfielder, outside backs and a central defender. In this regard, the team actually took a hit by giving away their highest draft pick.

On top of that, it will be interesting to observe the way Osorio handles the over burden of Red Bull fueled expectation (and the meddling of Mark DeGrandpre). If things go as scripted, Osorio’s first order of business may be to raid his old club for talent.

While Conde, though an excellent defender, is unlikely to leave this season due to his contract situation, NYRB fans could see the likes of Jim Curtin (promising central defender but recently out of favor), or even Gonzalo Segares in RB colors next season.

Having worked with Claudio Reyna in the past, Osorio’s arrival likely means the troubled midfielder will likely be around for 2008. But after focusing Chicago’s offense through a playmaker last season, it will be interesting to observe whether Osorio opts for this strategy or works with what he is given (strength down the flanks). If he decides to cross the ball, this makes left back and midfield a priority.

Searching for Rapid success

When looking across MLS, one can truly say beauty is in the eye of the beholder. From DC United’s disciplined passing game, to the staunch kick ball of Real Salt Lake, with each passing year MLS sides attempt to define themselves through their unique brand of soccer.

For fans, this has made for an ever more interesting, if limited, quality of football throughout the league. But while some teams struggle to entertain their fans (*cough NY Red Bulls*), this claim can not be made of the Colorado Rapids.

After their opening win against DC United, many (including myself) expected Colorado to barnstorm the league with their exciting brand of football. But although injuries took their toll, throughout the season, this team was infuriating to watch: full of flair going forward and Swiss cheese at the back.

Failing to win in June, the Rapids capped off their losing streak with a 4-1 capitulation to a rampant DC United. And though staying in the playoff mix until the end, the team ended the season with a gut wrenching loss to arch rivals Real Salt Lake.

As opposed to other big spenders in the league, Colorado’s failure to invest in it’s playing side (or sack it’s coach) is seen by some as blazing gun behind the team’s failure to progress on the field.

But according to veteran sports writer George Tanner, veteran Rapids journalist and author of the popular soccer Blog, FC Rocky (RockyMountainNews.com/soccer), who covers the team for the Rocky Mountain News, success on the pitch is about finding the right pitch.

As opposed to teams in bigger media markets (LA, NYRB), Colorado did not field a designated player this season. Is this a statement about how the team is run from a coaching perspective or rather a marketing decision?

Don’t rush out and buy an expensive lawnmower just because your neighbors did. But if you’ve got the right guy, it’s nice to have that option. That’s just managing a team intelligently. he explained. “There were rumors that the Rapids were trying to sign Mexican Jared Borgetti, and that would’ve been a nice idea. But, with the talent the Rapids had in hand last season, would it have made sense?”

On the other hand, Tanner says the Rapids made some wonderful moves that didn’t break the budget. Trading Joe Cannon to Los Angeles freed up the goalkeeper position, and Bouna Coundoul was probably the biggest bargain in the league last year. “If you can make moves like that, do it. But don’t sign a superstar to a lucrative contract just because it’s fashionable.” he adds.

With the debut of Dick's Sporting Goods Park, it can also be argued that a big name player would have guaranteed bigger numbers that the 14,749 average 207 attendance. But after the non-factor that was Daniel Osorno, he says nationality should come second to loyalty.

"To be brutally honest, I think the Rapids would sell more tickets if Kyle Beckerman and Nat Borchers were still on the roster,” he said. “The fans here have shown a real willingness to fall in love with home-grown players. Colin Clark and Stephen Keel are likely to be the next fan faves here, more than any player-for-hire would be.”

Tanner says the negative side of the designated player is the preassure additional funds put on managers and players. And after the trade of Borchers and Beckerman and the team’s failure to make the playoffs, most fans expected Fernando Clavijo to be the next name to depart from Colorado. But Tanner says the team’s decision to stick by their coach could prove a welcome departure to the mercenary for hire style of Alexi Lalas.

“To jump only because the loudest voices are telling you to jump would be a mistake. he said in reference to calls for Claivijo’s ouster. said Tanner. “From where I sit, Alexi Lalas is making decisions based on what he thinks people perceive should be the next move for the team. The Rapids have the money to do whatever they want but they have made a commitment to build with care, not with unlimited spending. It’s an intelligent approach.”

Getting back to the field of play in 2008, clearly scouting will play a large role in building the team’s fortunes. But in a much smaller league with fewer resources than the NBA, NHL, NFL or Major League Baseball, this role often falls to the coach and assistant manager.

“If the Rapids have a network of scouts, I don’t know about it,” he said. “When you hire a new coach, he brings a specific idea of the type of team he wants and the type of players he wants. To my knowledge, it’s basically up to him to find those players.”

For Tanner, one reason the Red Bulls got so much better so quickly was Bruce Arena’s personal knowledge about which players around the world could improve his new team on an MLS-level salary. And he knew where to use the Beckham Rule.

From the Western conference final to crashing out of playoff content, the last two seasons have been a roller coaster for Rapids fans. But despite the flush of cash in to the league, he says soccer smarts—rather than money—will continue to dictate success in MLS.

“How many teams have a legitimate chance of winning the league next year? I’d say all of them. he concludes. It’s unclear from year to year which teams will be the best because of the tremendous turnover of players. Two years ago, Chivas USA was a laughing stock. But the organization is soccer-savvy, and they’ve added good players and a good coach. This year, they were one of the best teams. That’s what it takes. It’s not the money; it’s the smarts.”

For more insight on the Rapids and soccer at home and abroad, visit George's blog, FC Rocky at: RockyMountainNews.com/soccer

A few words with Joe Vide: A look back and forward

On November 21st 2007, MLS expansion side San Jose Earthquakes officially drafted ten players to form the core of their newly resurrected side. For coaches around MLS, this meant hard choices about who to protect on their roster. It is, perhaps, a testament to the league’s grow that the caliber of players available this season was significantly higher than that of previous drafts.

And while all players selected will be missed by their clubs, the loss of Joe Vide goes far beyond the field of play for New York Red Bulls fans.

As someone who has had the pleasure of meeting Joe, I can say this kid is a special talent who will go far on and of the pitch. Given the recent upheaval and departures surrounding the team, Joe said he only learned of his departure while playing golf in North Carolina. But despite the abruptness of this decision, he remains humble and optimistic about his time in New York and new challenges in San Jose.

He was good enough to answer a few questions about these subjects and a look back at a whirlwind 2007 season:

1. Talk about your position at the beginning of the season. What were your initial Expectations for playing time under Bruce Arena?

Coming off a year where I had played only a little, I was looking forward to improving personally and just wanted to be ready if I was ever called on to fill whatever role Bruce had in mind for me. Obviously after getting a chance to play some the year before I was looking to have more of an impact and as a result be able to contribute more on the field.

2. Early on, it seems the midfield was a lock as the team was firing on all cylinders. How did you deal with this situation to eventually get your shot?

Early one our team was playing great all over the field, and especially in the middle of the park which made it challenging to try to fit in there. I also struggled more than I would have liked to during pre season so that made the likelihood of playing all the more less. You just have to continue working hard and training well, if you cant do that then you are not putting yourself in a position to get on the field. The season is a long one and with all the injuries and suspensions that occur you always must be ready for your chance. And during the Colorado game when Carlos came out with an injury I finally got my first significant minutes of the year and played decent enough. At this level it is about being prepared all of the time, so that whenever your number is called on you are able to go and fill in your respective position.

3. What would you describe as your best attributes as a player and what did you improve upon this season?

My best attribute as a player I would say is my work ethic. I enjoy tough challenges and the chance to prove myself against bigger odds and better players. Those are the things I really enjoy about the game, that’s why I play the position I play because you are usually matched up against the teams number 10, their playmaker, and I enjoy attempting to step up to the challenge each and every game.

4. How did the mood in the locker room change during the season and how did you respond personally to the mid-season losing streak?

One thing about the team this year is that we were all close, every team goes through tough times, but this team never let it affect them in a negative way. The way we started off the year was brilliant and when things started to turn sour, we just put in more work and trained harder. We were all aware of what we could play like if things went our way and we just attempted to get back to the same form that we had in the beginning of the year. The demeanor of the team never changed, we knew we had the quality of players to be a good team it was just about getting back to that level.

5. After starting 13 of the team's last 16 games, you came on strong in the later part of the season. What changes allowed you to break in to the lineup and do you feel you grew as a player as time went on?

The only thing I can say is that I was given the opportunity to play by the coaching staff and I made the best of it. At the time we had multiple injuries so I was able to come in and try to fill in for Claudio and Dema when they were out. I just tried to add a spark or some energy on the field and try to help us get back to our winning form. Playing in those games definitely helped me develop confidence that I could compete at this level.

6. In terms of team morale, describe Bruce Arena's style in the lockerroom? What players rallied the troops after a loss?

Bruce would never get to down on us after a loss and would never praise us to much in a victory. He obviously would point out flaws and areas that we either needed to improve individually or as a team. And the next week we would address those things. As for the team the older players would definitely take it upon themselves to rally the troops so to speak to ensure that we were ready for the following match. There is not much you can do once the game is over, you just look forward to the next one and continue to improve.

7. Going in to the playoffs, what was the mood like in camp? Was the feeling that the team could win the title?

Heading into the playoffs we were still upset about how things ended last year. There was a feeling amongst the returnees that we deserved more and we were definitely confident heading into the postseason. We realized that we had enough talent and experience in the locker room to really make a run. While that may not have been the case of how things worked out we were definitely confident and thought we should have done better. After things were over it left a feeling of underachievement for this team.

8. Many have commented about the rift between Bruce Arena and certain players towards the end. Did you witness any disputes or grievances between players and staff?

Obviously there were certain problems between coaches and players, but that is just the nature of the game. It’s a long season things go up and down, but we did the best that we could in the moment and no rift or argument affected the team adversely when we stepped on the field.

9. What was it like playing alongside Claudio in the playoffs against New England and how did the team and you personally cope with his injury?

For me as a player I have always been a huge Claudio fan. One of my first memories of watching soccer was watching them win NCAA titles when he was at Virginia. When he played overseas I was lucky enough to live five minutes from the Olympia Stadium in Munich and whenever his team would come there I would be sure to make it out to the game. Playing with him this past year has been a great experience, you learn so much from just watching him on the field and how he sees and plays the game. Not only that but he was very willing to help you on the field, always willing to give advice or point something out that you could improve on. He treated the younger guys like anyone else, which was great and as captain of the team something I know all of us appreciated. This can be said though for all of the older guys, whether it be Juan, Ronald, Dave, whomever, they were great with us and always treated us like we were any other player willing to help out and instruct. As a younger player you cant beat learning from players of there caliber and having them treat you with total respect.

10. After such a loss, did you expect Bruce to return next season? Did you expect to return next season?

After the final loss of the year not a whole lot of thought was given to who would be returning. Personally I was hoping to return, great guys, great organization, I was happy. As for Bruce he had only really been around for a year and with this league with the parity and the rules they have its hard to make a huge impact right away, so I wasn’t exactly sure what was going to happen.

11. What are your hopes for your new team and is there any message you would like to leave for NYRB fans?

When I found out I was selected to San Jose there were at first a lot of mixed emotions. I was sad to leave a place I had called home, all the friends I had made in the area, but that’s the nature of the game. Never being out to California, it will definitely be an experience. I have heard great things about Coach Yallop from players that played under him to his past staff, so I am excited about the opportunity to play under him. Being part of the resurrection of a past team should be fun as well, the fan base will be there and while it may be a struggle as tends to be the case with expansion teams, I am looking forward to the opportunity to ply my trade out there. All in all I am looking to getting out there and getting things started, especially the warm weather, its going to help out my golf game tremendously!

As for the Red Bull fans…Thank you for all the support I have received over the past two years I have been here. I just want to say thank you for making me feel at home in my time here. I have gotten close to many of you and you have all been great to me. It will be like leaving your family behind. I am anxiously awaiting my return to NJ for the game and look forward to seeing many of you there.

Chicago fire's on all cyclinders

While the Chicago Fire’s dramatic playoff run came as a surprise to many who watched them suffer early on, one fan who was never in doubt was Luis Arrovaye. As a native Colombian and long time Fire fan, writing about the beautiful game always came naturally to Arrovaye. But few could have predicted a better result than the opportunity to cover the team for a major Chicago paper.

Humbled and excited by the challenge, Arrovaye now spends most of his time living the dream: writing, blogging about and interviewing soccer’s major players. But one subject which remains close to his heart (and pen) remain his Chicago Fire.

One of only four teams in the league to utilize it’s designated player spot, the turning point in Chicago’s success both on and off the field was undoubtedly the acquisition of Blanco. But as opposed to the upheaval on the west coast, Arrovaye says Chicago’s late playoff surge benefited from a stable core which had long been established.

“I don't think Chicago's run affected the Galaxy's playoff ambitions, but maybe the Fire was a good example for the Galaxy,” he speculated when comparing the DP situation of each team. “The Galaxy didn't need a role model to motivate itself. It just needed its players to start clicking.”

After racking up four goals, seven assists, the only thing more explosive than Blanco’s play were his the field antics. But while adamant Blanco remains a star and entertainer of the highest caliber, Arrovaye remains convinced his significance off the field was a larger consideration.

“I think Blanco's signing was largely based on marketing—especially giving the large Mexican population in Chicago.,” he said. “With so many sports stars in Chicago, the Fire wanted to have its own big name player that would draw media attention and increase attendance.”

Rather than targeting Blanco specifically for the Fire, Arrovaye says he was informed by two separate Fire sources that AEG had its sights set on Blanco before the season and was going to do all it could to bring him to one of their teams.

But as opposed to AEG’s “hands off” approach, he feels the Fire's new owners (Andell Holdings) will likely be more hands on—in terms of both player decisions and off the field marketing.

“AEG owned three teams and put most of its focus on the Galaxy," said Arrovaye. "It's possible the new owners will want to make a splash right away with a big name signing, but it's still too early to tell what their approach.”

While it is too early to speculate on who may be signed, with more money available, teams are now paying closer attention to players overseas.

After coaching in England and Colombia, Coach Osorio has already called upon his scouting connections to land Colombian defender William Conde from his former club Millionarios. An integral performer in Chicago’s late season run, Conde was acquired for around $300,000 and proved the perfect example of improved scouting in MLS.

But despite the payoff of the Blanco and Conde, Arrovaye is quick to acknowledge the calculated risk coaches take in investing in a designated player.

Last year alone, the Fire got rid of its two leading scorers and its highest paid player. “When I asked Fire GM John Guppy if the team would use the designated player spot, he said the roster decisions were meant to make room for one.” he adds.

Expecting the single entity structure to endure for “at least few more years”, Arrovaye says the next step for Osorio and the Fire staff will scouting be the college ranks to search for new talent.

We try to go by collegiate conferences that are important, that have a lot of college seniors.” said Fire assistant Denis Hamlet in an interview with MLSNet.com. “ I went to the ACC (Atlantic Coast Conference), Juan [Osorio] went to the Big East, and Daryl [Shore] went down to the Conference USA.“

But rather than scouting only college seniors, Hamlet says the Fire have focused on following kids over a number of two to three years to identify how they will fit in to the team. he explained. “Foremost, you have to see if physically and mentally the kid can make the next step. he explained. “Once you establish that, you start to doing the background check to find out about the character of the player.”

Already setting his site’s on the MLS combine, Hamlet says final decisions on position will be made after watching college players against better competition.

“In a perfect SuperDraft you get three players that stick on the roster for the following year, and in that respect we've done pretty well. he concludes. “We have a number of international positions to work with, but it still comes down to the salary cap as far as if it's possible to get them all involved in there.”