Dallas Cowboys offensive coordinator Brian Schottenheimer looks on from the sidelines during an NFL football game
The Dallas Cowboys conducted an internal interview with offensive coordinator Brian Schottenheimer on Tuesday night as part of their search to find a replacement for former head coach Mike McCarthy.
Schottenheimer is the first known internal candidate to interview for the head coaching position.
The 51-year-old Schottenheimer, son of the late NFL coach Marty Schottenheimer, joined the Cowboys in 2022 as a consultant. He was later given the offensive coordinator role, working alongside McCarthy, who called the plays for the team over the last two seasons.
McCarthy took over the play-calling duties in 2023 after the Cowboys and Kellen Moore parted ways. Moore, who is now the offensive coordinator for the Philadelphia Eagles, is one of three external candidates the Cowboys have interviewed for the head coaching role.
The other external candidates are former NFL head coaches Robert Saleh and Leslie Frazier. Moore served as the play-caller for Cowboys quarterback Dak Prescott from 2019 to 2022.
McCarthy and the Cowboys parted ways last week after his original five-year contract expired. McCarthy interviewed for the head coaching position with the Chicago Bears, but the Bears decided to hire Detroit offensive coordinator Ben Johnson instead.
Dallas Cowboys celebrates in the 2nd half
McCarthy’s first coaching job in the NFL was on Marty Schottenheimer’s Kansas City staff in 1993.
Schottenheimer has developed a strong relationship with Prescott over the past two seasons and would be a familiar face for the quarterback, who is entering the first year of a $240 million, four-year extension. This contract is the first in NFL history to average $60 million per season.
Brian Schottenheimer has experience calling plays as an offensive coordinator with the New York Jets, St. Louis Rams, and Seattle Seahawks. His 12-season career as a coordinator spanned from 2006 to 2020.
Prescott had one of his best seasons under McCarthy and Schottenheimer in 2022, but the offense struggled early this season, even before Prescott suffered a season-ending hamstring injury. Dallas finished with a 7-10 record, ending a three-year stretch of 12-5 seasons that included playoff appearances.
Cowboys owner and general manager Jerry Jones had informal talks with Colorado coach Deion Sanders. Sanders, a Pro Football Hall of Fame cornerback, played five seasons for the Cowboys and was a key player in helping the team win their last Super Bowl at the end of the 1995 season.
Five years ago, after the Kansas City Chiefs made a thrilling comeback to defeat the San Francisco 49ers in their first Super Bowl appearance in fifty years, Chris Jones sat down for an interview. When asked about the future, the defensive tackle, who was entering free agency for the first time, had a confident response.
“Next year we’re coming back,” Jones said with a smile. “We’re coming back for a repeat.”
Now, the Chiefs are aiming for a three-peat, and Jones has been part of every step of it.
Instead of hitting free agency in January 2020, Jones signed a long-term contract after being franchised. Then, last March, he signed an even bigger deal, which could see him play his entire career in Kansas City. Jones is now one of six veteran players who will be participating in their seventh consecutive AFC championship game when the Chiefs face the Buffalo Bills this Sunday at Arrowhead Stadium.
“I’m getting old,” Jones, 30, laughed. “It’s fun, though. It’s a challenge. Takes a lot of hard work, commitment, a lot of belief, a lot of encouragement throughout the year. A lot of unselfish play amongst the team to continue to do that.”
Jones added, “We had this message in chapel about climbing the mountaintop. You don’t want to stay up there because you can’t really breathe. The air is too thin. So you go back down. But the joy is climbing to the mountaintop.”
Few teams have managed to knock the Chiefs off their peak.
They’ve won four of the past six AFC championship games. Both of their losses were in overtime: to the Patriots in 2019, the first year of their title-game streak, and to the Bengals three years ago. When the Chiefs have made it to the Super Bowl, only Tom Brady and the Tampa Bay Buccaneers have stopped Patrick Mahomes and the team from winning the Lombardi Trophy.
Mahomes is another of the six Chiefs players who have participated in all seven conference championship games. The first came in his first year as the starting quarterback, when he set records on his way to winning his first of two NFL MVP awards.
In that AFC championship game against the Patriots, Mahomes threw for 295 yards and three touchdowns without an interception, but the Chiefs lost. Mahomes still talks about how that loss in Arrowhead Stadium motivated him in future seasons.
Patrick Mahomes speaks at the news conference
“Obviously, you want to win three in a row,” Mahomes said. “But building those memories with the guys and with the community every single year is special. When I look back at all the different Super Bowls we’ve won, I look back at special moments that we’ve had and special games that we’ve had. We’ll try to do that the same this year.
“I mean, it has been a fun run up to this point,” Mahomes continued, “but we want to get to that ultimate goal.”
Many of the key players on this team know what it takes to reach that goal.
In addition to Jones and Mahomes, four-time All-Pro tight end Travis Kelce has been there for all seven AFC title games. Kelce had seven catches for 117 yards and a touchdown in the Chiefs’ divisional win over the Houston Texans last Saturday. Defensive tackle Derrick Nnadi, long snapper James Winchester, and kicker Harrison Butker have also been around for all seven championship games.
While the Chiefs have had other stars over the years, like Tyrann Mathieu, who was the leader of the defense at the start of their seven-year run, and Tyreek Hill, who played a major role in their explosive offense, the six players who have been part of every AFC title game have combined for 945 games with the Chiefs, including 121 playoff games. Those playoff games are particularly significant, as a single loss could have ended the Chiefs’ remarkable streak.
“There is something to be said for that experience, especially when the calendar reaches the end of January,” Chiefs coach Andy Reid said. “The experience helps, especially with some of the younger guys, to be able to talk to them and tell them about the urgency of this thing.
It’s single elimination. That’s easier said than putting that in your brain and getting yourself right for every snap that you have at practice, to practice hard and be aggressive with. You just have to make sure you stay really focused and don’t let the distractions in there the best you can.”
The Minnesota Vikings and head coach Kevin O’Connell agreed on a multiyear contract extension on Tuesday, following a successful 14-3 regular season that exceeded expectations. Many had predicted a losing record or a last-place finish in the NFC North before the season began.
The Vikings have not shared the details of the contract, which was signed with one year still remaining on O’Connell’s current deal. In his three seasons with the team, the 39-year-old coach has led the Vikings to a 34-17 regular season record and a 0-2 playoff record.
One of the standout achievements in 2024 was the career-best performance of quarterback Sam Darnold, who had a strong first season with Minnesota after the team moved on from Kirk Cousins and drafted J.J. McCarthy as his future replacement.
Darnold made history by becoming the first starting quarterback in NFL history to achieve 14 wins in his first season with a team, a record that goes back to when the league first started tracking quarterback starts in 1950.
After struggling with the New York Jets and Carolina Panthers, Darnold had a breakout year, setting career highs in almost every major statistic and earning a spot in the Pro Bowl for the first time.
“It is an absolute honor to continue leading the Minnesota Vikings,” O’Connell said in a statement released by the team. “Holding this prestigious position is something I never take for granted.”
O’Connell made history himself by becoming the first Vikings coach to achieve multiple seasons with at least 13 wins. He is also the third coach in NFL history to reach that milestone in two of his first three years. Matt LaFleur of the Green Bay Packers (2019-2021) and George Seifert (1989-1990) of the San Francisco 49ers are the only other coaches to do so.
Kevin O’Connell watches in the 2nd half
“Kevin is exactly who we believed him to be when we named him as our head coach — an innovative play caller, an excellent communicator, and a strong leader who motivates and connects with his players,” said Vikings owner and president Mark Wilf. “He has helped establish a culture that positions us for sustained success, and he will continue to set the standard we need as we pursue a championship for Vikings fans.”
After Mike Zimmer was fired following an eighth season with a 2-3 playoff record, the Vikings hired O’Connell, who had just finished his time as the offensive coordinator for the Super Bowl-winning Los Angeles Rams in 2021.
Although O’Connell’s passion for the quarterback position outpaced his ability to play it, having spent four years with five different NFL teams, he eventually transitioned to coaching. He worked his way up and joined the Rams in 2020 under head coach Sean McVay.
This season, the Vikings lost twice to McVay’s Rams, including a 27-9 loss in the wild-card round of the playoffs. They were also swept by the NFC North champion Detroit Lions for the second consecutive year, which indicates that there is still work to be done for the team to progress further.
Despite these setbacks, O’Connell has created a positive atmosphere where players can perform at their best. His record of 26-9 in games decided by eight points or fewer, or one possession, shows his ability to lead in close games.
O’Connell’s strength lies most notably in the quarterback room. Despite facing challenges, including the season-ending Achilles injury to Cousins, the Vikings finished fifth in the NFL for passing yards in 2023. Darnold’s breakout performance in 2024 highlighted the continued success in that area.
“There is no question this team is on the right trajectory under Kevin’s continued leadership,” said Zygi Wilf, Vikings owner and chairman. “His authenticity, passion and positive energy, along with his impressive understanding of the game, has helped lead to the success we’ve experienced over the past three years and will be foundational blocks on which to build moving forward.”
Only the coordinators who interviewed for head coaching positions before playoff games can say whether those interviews were a distraction. However, that won’t stop people from making assumptions.
The NFL’s hiring process became a hot topic when the Detroit Lions were knocked out of the playoffs. The Lions finished the season with a strong 15-2 record and secured the NFC’s No. 1 seed, but they were eliminated by the Washington Commanders in the divisional round.
Some Lions fans, unhappy with the team’s early exit, blamed offensive coordinator Ben Johnson and defensive coordinator Aaron Glenn for possibly focusing more on interviews than their game plans.
Johnson accepted the Chicago Bears’ head coaching offer on Monday, just two days after the Lions lost 45-31 to the Commanders. During Detroit’s bye week, Johnson had interviewed with the Bears, Patriots, Jaguars, and Raiders.
Despite the distraction of interviews, Johnson’s offense performed well, accumulating 521 yards and scoring 31 points. This showed that he wasn’t too distracted to create an effective offensive game plan.
However, Johnson made one critical mistake in the game. With 12 minutes left in the fourth quarter, trailing by 10 points, he called a trick play. Wide receiver Jameson Williams ended up throwing an interception, though he should have tucked the ball and run instead of trying to pass into coverage.
Fox broadcaster Tom Brady, who is also a minority owner of the Raiders and involved in interviewing Johnson, criticized the trick play. “Not a great time for a trick play,” Brady said.
Despite the negative outcome, Johnson’s trick plays had some success earlier in the game. Williams ran for a 61-yard touchdown on a double reverse, and running back David Montgomery completed a 20-yard shovel pass after receiving a pitch from quarterback Jared Goff.
Glenn, who had also interviewed with multiple teams including the Bears, Jaguars, Raiders, Saints, and Jets, had a difficult time as well. He turned down an interview request from the Patriots, who later hired Mike Vrabel.
His defense gave up 38 points and 481 yards to Washington, but the Lions were missing several key players, including cornerback Amik Robertson, who was injured early in the game.
Mike Vrabel gestures in the event
While Johnson and Glenn weren’t the only coordinators interviewing for head coaching jobs during the playoffs, they were on the losing end of one of the biggest upsets of the postseason.
On the other hand, Washington’s offensive coordinator, Kliff Kingsbury, decided to wait until after the season to interview so he could focus on the playoffs. Washington’s defensive coordinator, Joe Whitt Jr., had his first interview with the Jets on Sunday.
Eagles offensive coordinator Kellen Moore, Bills offensive coordinator Joe Brady, Chiefs offensive coordinator Matt Nagy, and Chiefs defensive coordinator Steve Spagnuolo have also been involved in interviews with various teams during the playoffs.
According to NFL rules, assistants on playoff teams can only conduct virtual interviews. This year, the league also limited interviews to a maximum of three hours for coaches still participating in the playoffs.
Many assistants prepare for potential interviews during the offseason, so they don’t have to start from scratch when they get a call.
Johnson, who was in his third hiring cycle, said last week, “This go-around, I’ve been a lot more prepared for the types of questions that they’ve been asking.” He added, “I’ve also changed my frame of mind a little bit, and instead of worrying solely about the offense and what we’re doing right here, I’ve been able to have offseasons and summers to think about the big-picture view, what a program would look like where I’m running it.
And so, I think that way, I’m a lot more prepared for the questions that come my way and I’m much more comfortable answering them.”
Glenn also entered this cycle more prepared after interviewing with teams last year. He shared, “I think those are things you always look at during the offseason, guys that you think that mesh well with you, that are compatible with how you think and how you want to operate.”
He continued, “During the season you really don’t even mess with it at all because you’re so locked in to what you’re doing, and then once the interviews start, you start to come back to some of those things, some of those people that you talked to. You start to think about, ‘Is this a guy that I feel like I can win a Super Bowl with?’ And I always look at it that way.”
Eagles fans were concerned when Moore had three interviews, including one with the Cowboys just two days before their game against the Rams. They were even less happy with his play-calling in a close 28-22 win. However, Moore explained, “It’s really the same process we normally take.
Nothing changes in our preparation for a game.” He added, “You know, I missed a fourth-grade basketball game on Friday night; that’s about it. Other than that, it’s the same process.”
Inter Miami CF has officially signed versatile defender Gonzalo Luján from Argentine club Club Atlético San Lorenzo de Almagro. Luján’s contract extends through the 2027 Major League Soccer (MLS) season, with an option for 2028. The acquisition strengthens the team’s defensive lineup ahead of the 2025 season. Pending his P-1 Visa and International Transfer Certificate (ITC), Luján will bring added depth and flexibility to the team, capable of playing both as a center back and fullback.
Young Defender Brings International Experience to Miami
At just 23 years old, Luján has already made a name for himself in major competitions. He has played in prestigious tournaments like the CONMEBOL Copa Libertadores and Copa Sudamericana, and recently represented Argentina’s U-23 national team at the 2024 Paris Summer Olympic Games. Notably, his Olympic experience saw him under the guidance of Inter Miami head coach Javier Mascherano, enhancing his familiarity with the team’s system and expectations.
Gonzalo Luján (Inter Miami CF)
Inter Miami’s President of Football Operations, Raúl Sanllehí, praised the signing, emphasizing Luján’s versatility and ability to strengthen the defensive unit. According to Sanllehí, Luján’s ability to perform across multiple positions in the back line will be crucial for the team’s 2025 campaign. The young defender is seen as a significant asset to ensure quality depth and adaptability in the squad.
Luján Eager to Contribute to Inter Miami’s Success
Gonzalo Luján expressed enthusiasm for joining Inter Miami, describing it as a privilege to be part of a top organization. He is determined to work hard and support his new teammates to ensure a successful 2025 season. His move to MLS marks a new chapter in his career, building on his impressive record at San Lorenzo, where he made 97 appearances and contributed an assist across various competitions.
Before joining Inter Miami, Luján spent his entire professional career at Club Atlético San Lorenzo, a historic club in Argentine football. He debuted in 2021 and gained extensive experience in South American competitions, showcasing his talent in 15 matches across the Copa Libertadores and Copa Sudamericana. Additionally, Luján’s international experience alongside future Miami teammate Federico Redondo underscores his readiness to make an impact in MLS.
Tillamook Joins Portland Timbers as New Jersey Sponsor, Expanding Long-Standing Oregon Collaboration (Portland Timbers)
The Portland Timbers have introduced Tillamook as their new front-of-jersey sponsor through a multi-year agreement, debuting in the match against the Seattle Sounders. This collaboration unites two iconic Oregon brands, celebrating their shared commitment to the state. Timbers CEO Heather Davis praised the partnership, emphasizing Tillamook’s alignment with Oregon values and its commitment to quality and community.
Partnership Builds on Long-Standing Relationship
The Timbers and Tillamook have enjoyed a strong partnership since 2014, with the dairy cooperative contributing to the fan experience through stadium activations like the beloved “Cheddar Baby Loaf” mascot and concession offerings. Fans were instrumental in advocating for this expanded partnership, with many encouraging Tillamook to take on the role of jersey sponsor. Kate Boltin, Tillamook’s VP of Marketing, noted the enthusiasm of the fanbase in helping to shape this decision.
Tillamook Joins Portland Timbers as New Jersey Sponsor, Expanding Long-Standing Oregon Collaboration (Portland Timbers)
As a Certified B Corporation, Tillamook brings its dedication to social responsibility to the partnership. Together with the Timbers, Tillamook will contribute to the Fields for All program, which builds soccer fields and futsal courts for underserved children. Starting in 2025, the partnership will focus on creating new facilities in rural Oregon communities, demonstrating their shared commitment to uplifting youth and promoting accessibility to sports.
Tillamook employees will take part in the Timbers’ “Stand Together” week from September 9–13, 2024. This annual event engages the community in nonprofit projects and volunteer initiatives across Portland. By joining forces, Timbers and Tillamook aim to foster greater community involvement and amplify the impact of this initiative.
Tillamook’s branding will appear on the Timbers’ home and away kits, including their 50th-anniversary jersey during the 2025 MLS season. This partnership underscores both organizations’ shared values and pride in representing Oregon. Fans can purchase the new Portland Plaid and Nature Unites kits featuring Tillamook, celebrating this meaningful collaboration between two beloved local brands.
Portland Timbers End Sponsorship with DaBella Exteriors Following CEO’s Sexual Harassment Allegations (Portland Timbers)
The Portland Timbers severed their sponsorship deal with DaBella Exteriors after serious allegations surfaced against the company’s CEO, Donnie McMillan Jr. The accusations involve unwanted sexual advances and harassment of at least three female employees. The decision came after the allegations were revealed in a lawsuit filed by former DaBella CFO, Lowell “Greg” Swartz.
Swartz, who was fired in 2022, claimed that DaBella failed to pay him money owed after his termination. His lawsuit also sought internal company documents, which were believed to expose details about harassment claims. The allegations are not directly stated in the lawsuit, but court filings suggest that Swartz oversaw settlements paid to women who accused McMillan of harassment.
Portland Timbers End Sponsorship with DaBella Exteriors Following CEO’s Sexual Harassment Allegations (Portland Timbers)
Timbers Sever Sponsorship After Learning of Sexual Harassment Claims
The Timbers, upon learning of the accusations through court filings made public on February 23, immediately ended their sponsorship agreement with DaBella. They removed all DaBella-related images and signage from their website and Providence Park, emphasizing their commitment to transparency and community values.
DaBella’s attorney, D.S. Berenson, dismissed the allegations, calling them “absolutely ludicrous.” He suggested the claims were part of an effort by Swartz to secure a large financial payout. Despite this denial, the Timbers opted to terminate the sponsorship in line with their organizational values.
Timbers’ History of Controversies Adds to Sponsorship Decision
The Timbers have faced criticism in the past over their handling of misconduct cases, including the 2022 investigation into the Portland Thorns regarding Paul Riley’s sexual harassment. These prior controversies likely influenced the team’s decision to distance itself from DaBella.
The Timbers will wear jerseys without a sponsor’s name across the chest until they secure a new sponsorship deal. The club’s commitment to its values over financial gain was emphasized by coach Phil Neville, who expressed pride in the decision.
The Portland Timbers have secured the services of Joao Ortiz, a defensive midfielder from Ecuadorian club Independiente del Valle. The 28-year-old has signed a contract through 2027, with an option for 2028. The reported transfer fee is approximately $1.5 million. This move strengthens Portland’s midfield for the upcoming seasons.
Timbers Expect Ortiz to Contribute Significantly to Midfield Strength
General Manager Ned Grabavoy expressed confidence that Ortiz will make an immediate contribution to the team. He highlighted the player’s extensive experience in South American competitions, both at the club and national team level. Ortiz is expected to play an important role in the midfield and help improve the team’s performance.
Joao Ortiz (Portland Timbers)
Before joining Portland, Ortiz accumulated 8 goals and 15 assists in 229 professional appearances across various clubs in Ecuador. His experience includes playing for Independiente del Valle, Delfín SC, and LDU Quito. Additionally, Ortiz has represented Ecuador nine times and was part of their squad for the 2024 Copa América.
Coach Neville Praises Ortiz’s Physicality and Technical Ability
Timbers head coach Phil Neville praised Ortiz’s physical strength, technical ability, and skill on the ball. Neville believes Ortiz’s profile fits the team’s needs and expects him to be a valuable addition. His qualities will help enhance both the team’s defensive and offensive play in the midfield.
Ortiz will join a competitive midfield group alongside Diego Chará, David Ayala, and Cristhian Paredes. The Timbers’ 2025 season will begin on February 23 with a match against Vancouver Whitecaps FC, a rematch of last year’s Western Conference Wild Card defeat. Ortiz’s addition is expected to play a significant role in Portland’s future success.
Sounders FC Eliminated from 2024 Leagues Cup After 3-0 Defeat to LAFC in Quarterfinals (Sounders FC)
Sounders FC was eliminated from the 2024 Leagues Cup after a 3-0 defeat to LAFC in the Quarterfinals. The match, held at Lumen Field on the Emerald Queen Casino Pitch, saw goals from Ryan Hollingshead, Kei Kamara, and Denis Bouanga. Despite playing at home, Seattle failed to find the back of the net and was shut out by LAFC’s strong defense. This loss concluded their Leagues Cup journey, and the team now shifts focus to the MLS regular season, with a match against Minnesota United on August 24.
Leagues Cup Record and Jackson Ragen’s Milestone Achievement
Seattle finished the 2024 Leagues Cup with a 3-2-0 record, ultimately falling in the Quarterfinals. Over the course of the tournament, they registered a 5-5-0 all-time record in Leagues Cup play. One bright spot for the Sounders was Jackson Ragen reaching his 100th appearance across all competitions for the club. Ragen, who signed with Seattle in 2022 after playing for Tacoma Defiance, marked a personal achievement despite the team’s early exit. Additionally, the Sounders’ ongoing struggles against LAFC continued, with the team now having been outscored 8-1 in three meetings with them in 2024.
Sounders FC was Eliminated from the 2024 Leagues Cup After 3-0 Defeat to LAFC in the Quarterfinals (Sounders FC)
The loss to LAFC represented another chapter in Seattle’s difficult season against the California team. The Sounders will face LAFC again in the Lamar Hunt U.S. Open Cup Semifinals on August 28. For this Leagues Cup match, Stefan Frei made his first appearance in goal, replacing Andrew Thomas, who had been the starting goalkeeper for the previous games in the tournament. Despite changes to the lineup, including substitutions throughout the game, Seattle could not manage to break down LAFC’s defense and struggled to generate offensive chances.
LAFC’s Strong Performance and Key Goals
Ryan Hollingshead opened the scoring for LAFC in the 14th minute, giving the visitors an early lead. Kei Kamara doubled the advantage in the 25th minute, and Denis Bouanga secured the win with a third goal in the 53rd minute, assisted by Hugo Lloris. Despite the Sounders’ efforts, they could not capitalize on their opportunities, and Seattle’s lone yellow card came in the 60th minute when Cristian Roldan was cautioned. The Rave Green finished the match with 16 total shots, but only one of those was on target.
While Seattle had an edge in total shots (16 compared to LAFC’s 10), they were unable to convert these into meaningful chances, with just one shot on goal. They also led in corner kicks, registering 12 to LAFC’s 1. On the other hand, LAFC had seven shots on target, and Hugo Lloris made just one save. The match had an attendance of 19,643 and was played in clear weather, with a temperature of 73 degrees. Despite the defeat, Seattle now shifts their focus back to MLS play, with a match against Minnesota United on the horizon.
Atlanta United has signed Will Reilly, a homegrown midfielder, to a contract that will run through the 2025 MLS season, with options for the 2026-2028 seasons. Reilly, 22, has been part of the club’s academy since 2016, helping to shape his development before heading to Stanford University, where he played for four years.
Reilly’s collegiate career at Stanford saw him become a consistent starter, contributing 11 goals and 17 assists in 75 matches. His performances have caught the attention of Atlanta United, who have followed his progress closely. Academy director Javier Perez praised Reilly’s versatility, noting that he can play in various midfield roles, including box-to-box or holding positions.
Will Reilly (Atlanta United)
The club is thrilled to welcome Reilly back to the fold after his successful college career. His time at Stanford showed his reliability and growth, starting every match for the past three seasons. Atlanta United looks forward to seeing him continue to develop as a professional with their first team.
Before heading to college, Reilly also gained valuable experience playing for Atlanta United 2 in the USL Championship, featuring in 35 matches from 2019 to 2021. With this combination of academy training, college experience, and USL play, Reilly is well-prepared to take the next step in his soccer journey with Atlanta United.
Atlanta United has acquired midfielder Mateusz Klich from D.C. United. In return, D.C. United receives Atlanta’s first-round pick in the 2025 MLS SuperDraft (No. 23 overall) and up to $50,000 in conditional General Allocation Money (GAM) in 2026 if Klich is re-signed by Atlanta. D.C. also retains a portion of Klich’s salary and his Designated Player (DP) roster spot, although Klich will not be a DP for Atlanta.
Klich’s Proven Quality and Leadership in Midfield
Klich, a 34-year-old Polish international, is known for his ability to control a game and create scoring opportunities. Chris Henderson, Atlanta’s chief soccer officer, praised Klich’s proven quality in MLS and European leagues, emphasizing his ability to dictate the tempo and his leadership in the midfield. Atlanta views Klich as a crucial addition to strengthen their midfield and enhance their playmaking capabilities.
Mateusz Klich (New England Revolution)
Before joining D.C. United in 2023, Klich had a notable career in Europe, playing for Leeds United in nearly 200 matches, helping them achieve promotion to the Premier League. He has also played in the Eredivisie for PEC Zwolle, FC Twente, and FC Utrecht. In MLS, Klich contributed significantly with D.C. United, recording 6 goals and 22 assists in 63 appearances, showcasing his consistent playmaking ability.
D.C. United Reflects on Klich’s Impact
D.C. United expressed gratitude for Klich’s contributions during his time with the club. General Manager Ally Mackay thanked Klich for his commitment and leadership, wishing him the best in his next chapter with Atlanta. Klich had been a key player for D.C. under former manager Wayne Rooney and left the club after two productive seasons.
The addition of Klich adds experience and depth to Atlanta United’s midfield, alongside Bartosz Slisz, Tristan Muyumba, and Ajani Fortune. Atlanta United, coming off a ninth-place finish in the Eastern Conference in 2023, hopes to improve their standing with Klich’s expertise. Meanwhile, D.C. United, entering their second season under coach Troy Lesesne, will look to rebuild after narrowly missing the playoffs in 2024. Both teams aim for stronger seasons ahead, with Klich’s transfer playing a key role in Atlanta’s ambitions.
The New England Revolution announced the signing of forward Maximiliano Urruti, who joins the club on a contract through 2025, with an option for 2026. The 33-year-old Argentine arrives as a free agent, following his tenure with Club Atlético Platense in Argentina’s top flight. Sporting director Curt Onalfo expressed confidence in Urruti’s ability to contribute immediately, citing his decorated MLS career and championship pedigree.
Experienced MLS Veteran Joins New England
Urruti brings a wealth of experience to the Revolution, having spent 11 seasons in MLS. During that time, he has amassed 70 goals and 39 assists in 295 regular-season appearances while playing for clubs like Toronto FC, Austin FC, and the Portland Timbers. His addition adds significant depth and leadership to New England’s attacking lineup.
Maximiliano Urruti (New England Revolution)
The Revolution have made substantial changes to their forward line ahead of the 2025 season. With Bobby Wood departing and Giacomo Vrioni traded to CF Montréal, the team has also acquired Leonardo Campana from Inter Miami CF and signed Ignatius Ganago on loan from FC Nantes. Urruti complements these moves with his experience and ability to perform in high-pressure situations.
Praise for Urruti’s Leadership
Head coach Caleb Porter, who previously coached Urruti during the Portland Timbers’ 2015 MLS Cup-winning campaign, emphasized the striker’s professionalism and locker-room presence. Porter believes Urruti’s familiarity with MLS and his veteran mindset will help the team rebuild after a challenging 2024 season. The Revolution is banking on Urruti’s proven track record to strengthen their squad.
As the Revolution gears up for the new season, they are focused on improving their performance after finishing 14th in the Eastern Conference last year. Their 2025 campaign begins on February 22 with a match against Nashville SC. With Urruti and other new signings onboard, New England is optimistic about turning things around and competing at a higher level.
