DCU re-sign Bono, Spirit sign Martinez, and more: Tuesday Freedom Kicks!
Morning everyone from the icy tundra once known as Washington DC. My back is still sore from all of the shoveling I had to do over the weekend, but it gave me the chance to catch an absurd amount of footie (how about them Red Devils?!). I also was blessed with a bonanza of DC area related soccer news so let’s dive in!
DC United acquire Alex Bono from New England Revolution (DCU)
Bono is back in DC! He will probably be fighting against Farr to be the 2nd choice keeper, but I see a scenario where he could potentially challenge Johnson for the starting role.
Washington Spirit Signs Paraguayan Star Claudia Martínez (Washington Spirit)
The Worst Kept Secret In Womens Soccer™️ is finally revealed! Though she couldn’t inflict much damage against the USWNT (which included several future teammates), I am excited to see how Martinez integrates into the team. But also how are we going to jam 13 international players into 8 international slots?! The math ain’t mathin’!
Michele Kang’s largesse for women’s football leaves Fifa open to bias claims (Guardian)
First, I didn’t realize that Kang’s ownership organization, Kynisca, is the presenting partner for the inaugural Fifa Women’s Champions Cup that starts tomorrow. Second, this issue of multi-club ownership is one to keep an eye on because it is not going away especially as several of Kang’s teams grow in stature.
A Saturday and a state killing: soccer as Minnesota is torn apart (Guardian)
A powerful piece that captures the emotional rollercoaster that comes with trying to simply get by in our modern age.
Ex-FIFA president Sepp Blatter says fans should avoid US for World Cup (USA Today)
“The worst person I know just made a good point”
Soccer United Marketing and Polymarket Announce Multi-Year Partnerships with Major League Soccer and Leagues Cup (Business Wire)
“prediction market insights” “second-screen engagement” what fresh hell is this…
DC Power signed someone!
I loved (emphasis on the past tense) the Washington Post’s coverage of local sports, especially DC area soccer. This is a great insight into a journalist who got his start there.
D.C. United Appoint Dr. Orbay Ünsoy as Head of Recruitment (DCU)
DCU is trying to win the race for most front office staff with “Dr.” in their name…
DCU edge closer to another signing in the form of a Europe based right back. Does this mean Herrera has competition, back up, or are we cashing in on him? My wild theory; we actually move Herrera further up the field!
I’m ecstatic that Trin is staying in DC, but the battle between the union and the ownership over the HIP rule continues…
How embracing international talent has made the Washington Spirit a top contender (IX Sports)
Having a roster full of internationals from every corner of the world in one of the most global cities is one of my favorite things about the Spirit.
Rodman loves DC and DC loves Rodman <3
Lastly, the NWSL unveiled their new match ball for the 2026 season. E Pluribus Anus!
I hope the vast majority of you are able to read this from the comfort of your own home, but if you must leave home, safe travels! And see you all in the comments!
Assuming that report is correct, the <$200k transfer fee for Hefti at least means he’s more likely to not even be a TAM player (unless we’re paying him like $800k/year). Definitely signals more towards quality backup/competition than just straight up getting rid of Herrera. Hopefully that is actually the case