Podcast
Chop Soccer
Hosted by Chop Soccer · EN
Hosted by Rox Fontaine and Ken Kimber. Chop Soccer covers (mostly) American soccer from the field, to the front office, and the streets.
Tap in and Chop with us on http://www.chopsoccer.com
11episodes
Episodes
Newest firstAll episodes
The Rise of Angel City FC: The Business Boom in Women’s Soccer
Mar 600:41:52Tap to summarizeLeading into the start of the NWSL season we look at how Angel City FC has become the most valuable women’s soccer team in the world, signaling a major shift in the business of sports. We discuss how celebrity ownership, sponsorship growth, and rising fan support are driving new investment into the National Women's Soccer League.We also explore whether this surge in team valuations represents long-term growth or a fast-moving trend in the evolving world of women’s sports.
Transcribe →World Cup 2026: Are Host Cities Ready for the Security Challenge?
Feb 2801:05:55Tap to summarizeWith the 2026 FIFA World Cup approaching, U.S. host cities are preparing for one of the largest global sporting events ever but delays in federal security funding are raising concerns.In this episode, we explore the balance between safety, cost, and coordination, and what it really takes to prepare for a modern mega-event.
Transcribe →World Cup 2026: When Passion Meets Profit
Feb 1001:11:42Tap to summarizeThe 2026 FIFA World Cup will be the largest tournament ever—and one of the most expensive for fans.With ticket prices in the thousands and resale listings reaching six figures, many supporters are questioning whether the sport’s biggest event is still accessible to everyday fans. In this episode, we explore:Why ticket demand is at historic levelsHow legal resale markets impact pricingFIFA’s role in the secondary ticket economyThe controversy surrounding dynamic pricingMauricio Pochettino’s response to ticket concernsTim Weah’s public disappointmentThe growing divide between business and tradition in soccerWhether you’re planning to attend in 2026 or watching from home, this episode looks at what these rising prices mean for the future of the game.Subscribe for more in-depth conversations on sports, culture, and modern fandom.
Transcribe →NWSL Free Agency Drama, Messi’s MLS Cup Masterclass, and Top Moments from the World Cup Draw
Dec 1201:20:31Tap to summarizeIn today’s episode, we break down three major stories shaking up the American soccer landscape.We start with the ongoing contract standoff between Trinity Rodman, the Washington Spirit, and the NWSL. We discuss a situation that puts a spotlight on the league’s salary cap, free agency rights, and whether the current CBA can actually support its biggest stars.From there, we shift breaking down the MLS Cup Final, where Lionel Messi delivered again with two assists, securing Inter Miami’s first-ever championship. We look at what it says about Miami’s transformation and what Messi’s influence means moving forward.We close by getting into the 2026 World Cup draw with Ken's list of his top moments/storylines from the event.
Transcribe →MLS & Apple Ending Their Deal Early... What It Really Means
Nov 2100:58:54Tap to summarizeIn this episode (our last before Thanksgiving and our first video-supported show in a long time) we break down the surprising news behind MLS and Apple restructuring their partnership and explore what comes next for the league. We cover:Why the deal is ending earlyWhat Apple is signaling by removing the Season Pass paywallHow MLS’s move to a winter schedule changes everythingThe realistic best-case scenario for MLS after 2029The realistic worst-case scenario if the market coolsIf you enjoy the episode, don’t forget to like, subscribe, and drop your thoughts on where MLS should go next.
Transcribe →MLS Cup Playoffs Round 1: Winners, Losers, and the Road Ahead
Nov 1501:34:03Tap to summarizeWe’re back! After a little time away from the mics, we return with a packed episode breaking down all the chaos, dominance, and controversy from Round 1 of the 2025 MLS Cup Playoffs.This week, we sort through the biggest winners and losers from an opening round that went mostly chalk except for a few teams who made a statement and a few who completely fell apart. We break down:Inter Miami’s revenge tour, Messi’s insane scoring streak, and what this means for their title hopes.FC Cincinnati’s rivalry redemption, knocking out Columbus in a gritty Game 3.San Diego FC’s historic expansion season, and whether they’re legit contenders or simply riding early season magic.The MLS scheduling disaster caused by FIFA breaks and why this three week playoff pause is driving fans crazy.Charlotte FC’s collapse as the only top four seed to bow out.The embarrassing moment that overshadowed the Chicago Fire’s playoff return.
Transcribe →Shirt Wars: Adidas, Nike, Puma, and the Future of Football Kits
Aug 1800:54:26Tap to summarizeThe soccer jersey game isn’t just about fabric and logos. It’s about money, prestige, and fan culture. In this episode, we dive into the changing landscape of kit manufacturers across Europe’s top five leagues.We break down Adidas’s surge to the top, Nike and Puma’s strategies to stay competitive, and the rise of challengers like Castore, Umbro, and Macron. From record-breaking sponsorship deals to the growing role of sustainability and fan-driven design, this conversation explores how jerseys are shaping not just the game, but the business of football itself.What We Cover:Why Adidas is dominating the Premier League with nearly 40% of clubs.The record kit deals fueling Manchester United, Arsenal, Liverpool, and Manchester City.How smaller brands are carving out a niche against the Big Three.Key market trends: customization, e-commerce, and sustainability.The fan experience—why design and storytelling matter as much as the logo.
Transcribe →MLS + Apple: The Numbers Are In
Aug 1000:58:35Tap to summarizeWe've got questions about the MLS and Apple’s first big reveal on Season Pass viewership. Don Garber says it’s 120,000 unique viewers per match, up nearly 50% from last year… but we have thoughts...
Transcribe →Are soccer specific stadiums the key to making the U.S. a true soccer nation?
Jun 601:11:10Tap to summarizeReuters published an article last week titled "Chicago Fire unveil plans for new $650m stadium in 2028" so this episode we’re discussing why soccer-specific stadiums are the true game-changer for soccer in the United States.
Transcribe →What Are Realistic Expectations for the USMNT Heading into the 2026 World Cup?
May 3001:13:18Tap to summarizeJeff Carlisle wrote an article last week about the USMNT titled "Gold Cup absences worst-case scenario for U.S. World Cup hopes" so this episode we’re diving into a question a lot of fans are wondering heading into 2026: What Are Realistic Expectations for the USMNT Heading into the 2026 World Cup?
Transcribe →