Liverpool Lead Manchester City, Messi Steers Miami, and MLS Conference Finals Preview

Summary

Unfiltered Soccer with Landon Donovan and Tim Howard Episode Summary: Liverpool Lead Manchester City, Messi Steers Miami, and MLS Conference Finals Preview Release Date: November 26, 2024

In this episode of Unfiltered Soccer, hosts Landon Donovan and Tim Howard, both esteemed figures in US Men’s Soccer, delve into a comprehensive analysis of recent developments in Major League Soccer (MLS), the Premier League, and the U.S. Men’s National Team (USMNT). They also spotlight significant moments in the National Women’s Soccer League (NWSL) and address listener questions in the mailbag segment. The conversation is enriched with personal anecdotes, expert insights, and candid opinions, making it a must-listen for soccer enthusiasts.

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1. MLS Playoff Action and Team Performances

Landon Donovan kicks off the discussion by reflecting on the recent MLS playoff games, particularly focusing on the intense showdown between New York City FC (NYCFC) and Red Bull City at Citi Field.

• Atmosphere at Citi Field:
  “I must say the atmosphere was awesome.” (01:58)

  Despite being a baseball stadium, Donovan praises the electrifying environment, highlighting it as a unique experience for a soccer match.

• NYCFC vs Red Bull City Analysis:
  “NYCFC played them off the park for the most part, had really good opportunities and just didn't capitalize. But 2-0 credit to Red Bull.” (02:29)

  The hosts dissect NYCFC’s dominant performance and Red Bull’s adherence to a forward-charging strategy, noting Red Bull’s efficient conversion of limited chances.

• Seattle Sounders Dominance:
  Tim Howard draws parallels between the Seattle Sounders and successful franchises like the Kansas City Chiefs in the NFL, underscoring Seattle’s consistency and resilience.

  “They just seem, for whatever reason, they're like unbe… they're like the Chiefs right now. Like they can mess up and do everything wrong and they just win.” (05:25)

• LAFC and Seattle Rivalry:
  Donovan acknowledges the intense rivalry between LAFC and Seattle Sounders, commending both teams’ performances and the passionate fanbases that elevate the league’s competitive spirit.

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2. Premier League Insights: Manchester City and Manchester United

Shifting focus to the Premier League, Donovan and Howard provide an in-depth analysis of pivotal matches and managerial strategies.

• Tottenham vs Manchester City Shock Result:
  “If you had a bag full of money, you wouldn't have put it on Spurs to beat City 4-0.” (12:48)

  The hosts express surprise at Tottenham’s resounding victory over Manchester City, attributing City’s struggles to key injuries and tactical inconsistencies.

• Manchester City’s Title Race:
  Howard comments on Pep Guardiola’s recent contract extension, emphasizing his strategic foresight amidst a challenging period for City.

  “The most brilliant thing he did in the last two weeks… he signed an extension. He saw this coming.” (16:28)

  Donovan concurs, asserting that despite current setbacks, City remains a formidable force with the potential to reclaim their dominance.

• Manchester United Under Ruben Amaran:
  Donovan discusses Ruben Amaran's inaugural game managerial approach, highlighting the need for patience and gradual integration of his philosophy.

  “Manchester United fans are brilliant because they always back the manager. … as long as they give him the time he needs that this will get better.” (22:46)

  The conversation underscores the importance of allowing new management to implement their vision without undue pressure.

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3. U.S. Men’s National Team: Christian Pulisic’s Controversial Celebration

A significant portion of the episode addresses the recent controversy surrounding Christian Pulisic and his post-goal celebration dance.

• Tim Howard’s Perspective:
  “This is about being a leader and being a captain of a US national team.” (26:02)

  Howard draws parallels between Pulisic’s actions and his own experiences, emphasizing the responsibility that comes with team leadership.

• Landon Donovan’s Clarification:
  “The Captain of America cannot, and I'll double and triple down on this, cannot do a celebration or a dance that is connected directly to the president elect, which is political.” (29:41)

  Donovan clarifies his stance, stressing that while individual expressions are valid, captains must consider the broader implications of their actions on the national stage.

• Mutual Respect and Accountability:
  Both hosts agree on the necessity for players to own their actions, particularly when representing the nation in high-profile tournaments like the upcoming 2026 World Cup.

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4. NWSL Highlights: Orlando Pride’s Historic Victory

The hosts celebrate Orlando Pride’s triumph in the NWSL Championship, recognizing their exceptional season and the impactful contributions of key players.

• Orlando’s Double Achievement:
  “They did the double, won the NWSL championship. Won the NWSL shield for best regular season record.” (38:26)

  Both Donovan and Howard commend the team’s stellar performance, highlighting standout players like Marta and the strategic acumen of coach Seb Heinz.

• Michelle Kang’s Generous Pledge:
  Donovan speaks passionately about Michelle Kang’s $30 million commitment to US Soccer Federation (USSF), underscoring its significance for women’s and girls’ soccer programs.

  “It's a wonderful, powerful moment for women's soccer. … she is well on her way to doing the same for women's soccer.” (41:15)

  Howard echoes the sentiment, drawing historical parallels to influential figures like Phil Anschutz and emphasizing the transformative potential of Kang’s investment.

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5. Mailbag: Listeners’ Questions and Topics

The episode incorporates listener interactions, addressing various queries and sharing memorable stories.

• Messi’s National Team Assist Record:
  Howard humorously reflects on Lionel Messi’s achievement of 58 assists, comparing it to his own playing days.

  “Congrats to him. … why it took him that long.” (43:58)

• National Team Organizational Issues:
  An email from Stephen raises concerns about US players pushing back against organizational faults, drawing comparisons to Roy Keane’s tenure with Ireland.

  Donovan and Howard discuss the challenges of balancing personal grievances with national team ambitions, emphasizing the importance of team unity and long-term goals.

• Favoriting Goodison Park Memories:
  Both hosts share heartfelt memories from Goodison Park, recounting pivotal matches and emotional farewells that highlight their deep-rooted connections to the club.

  • Howard’s Last Game Glory:
    “I will never, ever forget it.” (52:09)

  • Donovan’s Derby Triumph:
    “We beat Liverpool 3-0 on my first Merseyside derby.” (53:40)

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6. NBA Segment: Philadelphia 76ers’ Players-Only Meeting

Transitioning briefly from soccer, the hosts discuss a significant incident in the NBA involving the Philadelphia 76ers.

• Dysfunction and Leaks:
  Donovan and Howard critique the leaking of a players-only meeting, particularly Joel Embiid’s challenges with punctuality and its impact on team morale.

  “When you have a players only meeting, it means you've hit rock bottom.” (00:00)
  “The team is really bad, like really bad.” (56:18)

  They explore the detrimental effects of internal conflicts becoming public, highlighting issues of trust and leadership within professional sports teams.

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7. Conclusion and Holiday Wishes

Wrapping up the episode, Donovan and Howard extend their gratitude to listeners, encourage feedback, and share warm Thanksgiving greetings.

“Enjoy the turkey, enjoy the sides. Most importantly, enjoy your families love on each other. Have a great Thanksgiving.” (60:42)

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Notable Quotes with Timestamps

• Landon Donovan on Rock Bottom:
  “When you have a players only meeting, it means you've hit rock bottom.” (00:00)

• Tim Howard on Pep Guardiola’s Contract:
  “He signed an extension. He saw this coming.” (16:28)

• Donovan on Ruben Amaran’s Impact:
  “As long as they give him the time he needs, this will get better.” (22:46)

• Howard on Messi’s Celebration:
  “This is about being a leader and being a captain of a US national team.” (26:02)

• Donovan on Michelle Kang’s Pledge:
  “She is well on her way to doing the same for women's soccer.” (41:15)

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Conclusion

This episode of Unfiltered Soccer offers a multifaceted exploration of current events in the soccer world, enriched by the hosts’ firsthand experiences and thoughtful analysis. From intense MLS playoffs and Premier League upheavals to poignant moments in international soccer and the burgeoning success of the NWSL, Donovan and Howard provide listeners with a thorough and engaging discourse. Their candid discussions on leadership, team dynamics, and the responsibilities of being a sports icon add depth to the conversation, making this episode a valuable resource for fans seeking both information and insight.

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Time Stamps:

• [00:00] – Introduction and opening remarks
• [01:26] – MLS discussions begin
• [03:13] – Seattle Sounders analysis
• [04:57] – Sounders' aggressive play style
• [05:25] – LAFC vs Seattle rivalry
• [12:48] – Premier League: Spurs vs City
• [16:28] – Guardiola’s contract and City’s title race
• [22:46] – Manchester United under Amaran
• [26:02] – USMNT: Christian Pulisic’s celebration
• [29:41] – Landon Donovan’s clarification on Pulisic
• [38:26] – NWSL: Orlando Pride’s victory
• [41:15] – Michelle Kang’s pledge to USSF
• [43:58] – Mailbag: Messi’s assists
• [45:48] – Mailbag: National team organizational issues
• [50:47] – Mailbag: Goodison Park memories
• [54:58] – NBA: 76ers’ players-only meeting
• [60:42] – Conclusion and Thanksgiving wishes

Transcript

[Landon Donovan]

When you have a players only meeting, it means you've hit rock bottom. And I have a saying in life. Be careful of rock bottom, because rock bottom oftentimes has a trap door. Hey, everybody. Welcome into unfiltered Soccer, presented by Volkswagen. We are your host, keys, Landon Donovan. I'm Tim Howard. Ld tell everybody why you kept me waiting today. Where have you been?

[Tim Howard]

Well, I went on a little vacation to Cabo. It's a tough life. Someone's got to live it. You were working all weekend, right? I was at the game. Red Bull game.

[Landon Donovan]

That sums us up.

[Tim Howard]

Yeah. Well, you know, someone's got to work around here and someone has to enjoy it.

[Landon Donovan]

How was. How was vacation?

[Tim Howard]

It was nice, man. Getaway. Cabo's an amazing place. I love that place. So close to Sanya for you guys. It's. I don't know, I guess it's a long way. New York Caribbean or something. But like, it's an hour and a half for us, so it's so nice. Just get away, relax. And it's nice to be. Nice to be there, but nice to be home.

[Landon Donovan]

All right, before we get into the soccer, make sure as you listen, you follow us on social media Unfiltered soccer. Be sure to subscribe to the show on YouTube. Make sure you follow us on Apple podcasts and Spotify. If you like what we're doing, let us know. If you don't bring bring the heat. We love the heat. We don't mind it. It's all good fun for us. We love discussing soccer and all of your opinions. You can email us as well at female feedback@unfiltered soccer.com.

[Tim Howard]

All right, so we are going to start with MLS and in a little bit we got US national team. We're going to talk about that pulisic dance a little bit more. We don't want to beat a dead horse, but some time to think about it. A lot of premier league talk. But first you were at, I guess it was city's home game. So whatever that's called, that stadium and Red Bull City, how was it? Scenes good.

[Landon Donovan]

It was good. Yeah. Citi Field with the New York Mets play. I must say, I must say the atmosphere was awesome.

[Tim Howard]

Was it awesome?

[Landon Donovan]

Yeah, like, like you think, like, okay, baseball stadium. No one likes playing soccer in a baseball stadium. We get it. The atmosphere was awesome and it's like really cool. I think it was the first time it was a New York Hudson river derby in the playoffs. And it's like, man, if you could get that, you could get that every year. It was good, it was cool, you know, and of course the Rebel fans weren't, weren't outdone because it's right across the river. So they, they showed up. It was, it was one. It was a weird game. New York City fc, at some point the season beat the snot out of, out of Red Bull because Red Bull was trying to match the passing, orientating, play orientated play of New York City FC. And that's New York City FC's bread and butter. So they played him off the park. They beat him bad. And it was at that game I heard that there was some sort of internal meeting where they're like, n, we're going back to B, we're going back to the Red Bull way, which is like blood and thunder. Charge forward, get it forward, pass forward, run forward. And in fairness, I think both teams were worried about the other for those exact reasons. And Red Bull didn't have a lot. They didn't have a ton of chances. They scored on their real two real good opportunities. I thought New York City played them off the park for the most part, had really good opportunities and just didn't capitalize. But 2 nil credit to Red Bull.

[Tim Howard]

Really good game, I have to say. Like, just watching the games over the weekend, it's just fun to watch. There were, first of all, there were derbies, like real derbies in the playoffs, which make it amazing. But every seat in every stadium is full, at least in the stadiums where their MLS teams play normally. And it was just really fun to watch. Also really fun to watch the stepsister, redheaded stepchild in LA get taken to task by Seattle. I don't like either team. For the record, I had a lot of fun wins in Seattle.

[Landon Donovan]

This is not going to like you for this.

[Tim Howard]

It's just good to see them on the back of that. We saw the Galaxy absolutely dismantle Minnesota and I watched that game closely. Tim, I was thinking something put you on the spot here. Can you remember an MLS team that had a better front four like in their prime than the Galaxy right now between Ricky Pooch, Yovalich, Peck and Paintsil. I just, I was racking my brain all week and I'm like, is anybody been better? There might have been two, maybe three players better. Four though, in their prime.

[Landon Donovan]

Yeah. Look, you bring up a great point and the fact that, the fact that the only team that comes to mind is that first D.C. united team, was it Hawks, Echeverri, Jaime Moreno and they might have Roy Lasseter, but Like, but to your point, it's. It's been decades, right? And so it's really, it's a really good. I mean, watching them is exciting. Greg Vaney, the way he hasn't playing, like, they are bullish and they are in your face and they, they know exactly who they are and they know.

[Tim Howard]

By the way, they know they're going to concede chances, concede goals and whatever. And they're like, if you score three, we'll score four. You score five, we'll score six. And they just don't care. Man, they were good, but they were good Sounders. By the way, the Sounders are their last. I don't know if it's 17, 18, 20 games. I think they've lost once. Maybe they are. They just seem, for whatever reason, they're like unbe. They're like the Chiefs right now. Like they can mess up and do everything wrong and they just win. So that game next weekend is going to be phenomenal.

[Landon Donovan]

Yeah. And let's, let's, you know, go back a little with Central Sounders, that LAFC game. Like, I know they're your hated rival, so I love the hate, but there's obviously respect in that and credit LAFC for what they've been able to build on the back of, you know, Galaxy's the, you know, traditionally the best franchise in mls. So credit to lac, but I have to give, give people flowers, man. That's, that's something I do. And like, like Seattle is a tough out, bro. Like Seattle, you go there, it's a proper football soccer town. They're, they're educated, they know what they're doing, they support their team through good times and bad times. There's been a lot of good times and like, it's one of those like, grimy, tough places where yeah, they can play a bit of football, but they're willing to dig in and like the amount of big moments they've had in big moments, like, isn't coincidental anymore. Like winning MLS cup, winning in big moments in Western Conference finals. Jordan Morris, friend of ours, Jordy. We play with them. Like the fact that he's still doing it, still getting it done. Big credit, Stefan Fry. I mean, you want to talk about MLS goalkeeping legacy, hats off to him. I mean, he plays big.

[Tim Howard]

Well done, happy for him. And yeah, that game's going to be awesome next weekend. Sunday Orlando beat Atlanta. I think it's what we predicted, Tim. Orlando, Atlanta just flat, you know, after that emotional, super emotional high three game series with Miami. I think we predicted this one and Orlando kind of comfortable.

[Landon Donovan]

Comfortable. But you know, credit credit to Atlanta, they've overachieved. Right. I mean, this laid the Dragon in Miami and Messi and then looked at 1 nil against Roland. Of course they wanted to advance to, to the finals, but the conference finals. But ultimately they gave a decent showing themselves. But I mean, LA Galaxy beating Minnesota and Minnesota had a very good season to beat them. Six two in that fashion. Impressive.

[Tim Howard]

Yeah, yeah. I'm not sure the league is super thrilled with Orlando Red Bull, but on the other end, Galaxy, Seattle should be a lot of fun. The team Atlanta knocked out made a very, very fast and interesting decision. Well, apparently Tata Martino made the decision. I think we all know who really made the decision.

[Landon Donovan]

And who might that be?

[Tim Howard]

Yeah, maybe one of the players, but he's out as a manager. Usually I say, Tim, when a manager says he's stepping away or she's stepping away, that means the club pushed you out. Right. I will say someone as experienced and, you know, older in age, like Tata Martino. I could see a scenario where he said, I'm truly just need to step away for a while. However, that all changed when all these Mascherano job for the boys. Yeah. Because if, if he steps away and you have a decision the next day, guess what? That decision was being made for months and months ahead of time. So I, I think it's pretty clear what happened here. Leo and whoever said, look, it's been great, but if we don't win it, this is what's going to happen. He's going to resign and we're bringing in our boy.

[Landon Donovan]

And look, I think from my end we joke a little bit about Messi making those decisions in the background, but I'm kind of okay with it. I'm not overarchingly in favor of player power because I think that can disrupt things. But when you're Lionel Messi and you have the experience you have, you almost, you almost get a say in having a seat at the table. And what I would say to back that up is later in my career, I went banging on the GM's door and I had all these ideas. And in fairness to him, he just told me to go sit in the corner because those things weren't happening.

[Tim Howard]

Take it down.

[Landon Donovan]

I didn't have that pull, but I wanted it right. And so when, when you get a player who's a God, quite literally a footballing God, I'm okay with it.

[Tim Howard]

I'm okay with it. That let me give you, Let me Give you the problem with that.

[Landon Donovan]

Yeah.

[Tim Howard]

So in 2011, I'm going to take you behind the scenes a little bit. You were probably involved in some of these too. So 2011, Bob Bradley gets fired. Right. And behind the scenes there are conversations being had with a few of us players. I was 29 at the time, saying, hey, what do you think about this potential manager? This potential manager and one of those was Jurgen Klinsmann. And all of us at the time, not all of us, I'm speaking for myself, but a few of us said, oh my God, it's Jurgen Klinsmann. Legend, absolute legend soccer player. So we said, yeah, that would be amazing. Having no clue. Right. And to be fair, I was much younger, less experienced than Lionel Messi, making a decision like that or giving input like that. But it turned out to be a total disaster. Right. For U.S. soccer and for everyone involved. So that's the challenge and the danger with that, like, yes, he boys with Mascherano, yes, it seem exciting and great and whatever, but what happens the first time they lose three in a row.

[Landon Donovan]

Yeah.

[Tim Howard]

And now it's massive. There's real problems now, what you do, Right.

[Landon Donovan]

Yeah. Look, I don't doubt that what I would say, right. And this is, it's hard when you talk about Messi because I again, I reiterate, we're talking about a God. And that's. I'm, I'm, I'm not being, I'm not being flippant when I say that. The difference when you and I, because we had a long career on ASH team, when there was a coaching change, the right thing to do as someone at the top, being president of U.S. soccer, or people involved in decision making process is talk to the people with boots on the ground, the senior players. That's normal in the process, right. We didn't pick the coach. We gave an opinion on someone, on candidates that were brought to us. That's natural. That's part of the process. This is more of what it seems like to us anyway is Messi probably had a ton of input in this. The caveat to all that is there's one person in all of this conversation that you better keep happy. That you don't want to. No, no. That you don't want to go to war with. That you don't want to go to war with. So one part is his boy gets hired in Masarano and things go pear shaped and they have to make a tough decision. The other part is going, no, bro, we're not, we're not going to listen to you. And we're going to bring our own guy in. Well, guess what? My guy downs tools and is like, I'm out. Right. So there's. There's issues both ways.

[Tim Howard]

Yeah. I mean, look, they're Jorge Mas who ultimately made this decision. I'm sure David Beckham had input in it. And Messi. They're all smart. Right. About the way they went about it. Right. So Messi didn't go in and bang on his door and say, we have to hire Mascherano. He probably said, hey, you know who'd be an interesting one, right?

[Landon Donovan]

Totally, totally.

[Tim Howard]

And Jorge Mas probably said, oh, that is interesting. Right? Like, wink, wink, nod, nod. And again, we don't have all the context, but it will be interesting to see how this plays out again there. None of these guys are getting any younger. Busquets, Jordi Alba, Messi, Suarez. So let's hope it goes well. It's great for the league when everyone. When. When Miami's doing well and they're all playing well, et cetera. So let's hope it goes well.

[Landon Donovan]

Yeah.

[Tim Howard]

All right. Those matchups are next weekend. MLS matchups. Let's move on to your other day job, Tim. The Premier League. You watched a lot of games this weekend. Yeah, the biggest one. Spurs absolutely pummeled City.

[Landon Donovan]

Yeah. No one saw it coming. You know, if you had a bag full of money, you wouldn't have put it on spurs to beat City 4 nil. You just like that. You probably wouldn't have gotten odds on that. City is interesting because it's very easy where we sit, where everyone sits. What's the problem? Roger's injured. That's the problem. Yeah, yeah, that's a. That's a. That's a big chunk of it. When I start to look at the team, for me, when. When you look at Pep's great reign, there was always one player that he would like, dip in and out or he change a formation based on. On a player tactically. But it wasn't wholesale. Right. It's like Grealish comes out, Foden comes in. Maybe I. Maybe I put Jon Stones at the right fullback and he goes as inverted number six. Whatever. He chops and changes this team. Feels a little bit like there's four or five things that need changing. So Rodri's out, got that Holland, he had a rough game. So. Okay, so the Holland thing missed a ton of chances. Goalkeeper Riccardo made a bunch of saves. But the thing for me about Holland was he still leads the league in goals and he was in brilliant positions. Ld, you know, as a striker. He was. He was in brilliant positions. It was an off day. So I'm like, if a striker's getting a good position and getting good chances, they're going to score, so never mind that. But they sold Julian Alvarez, right, Who I think, if I remember correctly, added like a high double digit number of goals, right? So, like, you could play him with Holland, you could play him, play him on his own. But they didn't replace him, right? And then bring Gund back from Barcelona, who, by the way, God bless him, he's a brilliant player. Doesn't look like himself.

[Tim Howard]

No, he doesn't.

[Landon Donovan]

He was slow. He was. He wasn't charged around the midfield. Kyle Walker at one point. And by the way, Kyle Walker, brilliant footballer for England, for City, I mean, rarely puts a foot wrong on the pitch. And like he, he was out sprinted. There were times he didn't sprint back, right? Like, that's not what we did.

[Tim Howard]

Timo. Timo Werner ran by him, paced him. What?

[Landon Donovan]

Yeah, for the. And for the first goal, didn't tuck back. And one of his biggest strengths is tucking on the shoulder of the center back. So, like, again, not blaming Kyle Walker, but there's just a bunch of little things going on. And you know this with Rodri, he's everything. This guy is colossal, right? But what people forget when you and I stand in the tunnel and I, and I can say this honestly, when you're, when you're maestro, when your main man isn't there, the vibrations are throughout the team. And we're in a tunnel in a big game and you weren't there or Clint wasn't there, you start like, yeah, we have a chance today, but like, we don't have nearly as much as of a chance, right? And so big players hold other players accountable. And he is Pep Guardiola on the pitch. And so there's a lot, there's a lot to unpack with City. I don't know if you see it the same way, but that's a bunch of the things I see.

[Tim Howard]

One of the things that I think people don't realize about dominant teams or teams that are at the very top is the margins, even at the top, are still very thin, very thin. Like, they still have world class players all over the field. One of the takeaways, obviously, injuries has been a theme. And Pep went on a big rant about all the things that are going wrong or that people think are going wrong and why they are. When you play this many games, over this many seasons with the same players over and over, and they're playing for their national teams, eventually you're going to get a stretch where there's a bunch of guys out and they're just going through it. And I'll tell you what, though, like, for people who are saying, like, Peps lost a step or he's not smart, you know what, the most brilliant thing he did in the last two weeks that just kind of got brushed over because of their failures on the field.

[Landon Donovan]

Tell us.

[Tim Howard]

He signed an extension, Tim. So guess what? He saw this coming. He saw this little slide coming and he said, you know what, let me talk to my agent. Let's get this thing done real quick. Like, real quick. And. And now you want to, you know, they lose seven or eight or nine in a row and you want to fire them. All, right? You got the. To the tune of 40, 45, $50 million to pay. Right. He's not an idiot. He knows. And he knows they're going to go through a little patch and whatever and they will be fine long term.

[Landon Donovan]

Yeah.

[Tim Howard]

But in my opinion, and you know, maybe you disagree, I think the title race is over. I can't see them now. It's 11 points. Is it today?

[Landon Donovan]

It's, it's eight now. They play each other next week, so.

[Tim Howard]

Sorry.

[Landon Donovan]

Yeah.

[Tim Howard]

If it gets, if they, if they lose, then it's 11. I mean, I don't know how Liverpool just look too, they look too powerful to give up that many points.

[Landon Donovan]

Yeah. So. So. So a couple thoughts. So on. On. Look on the contract side of things, whether they go on a bad run or there's no break clause in the contract, the fact of the matter is congratulations to Pep Guardiola and Manchester City. You have done your business with each other fantastically over the like. The only thing I can think of is the relationship between Sir Alex Ferguson, Manchester United and Arsene Wenger and Arsenal. Like, there was never going to be a rift with.

[Tim Howard]

Between, I was going to say privately and privately.

[Landon Donovan]

And so, like, if there's no break clause, well, guess what the break clause is. Hey, guys, it's not going anywhere, right? Pay me a little bit of money, we'll go away quietly. This has been an amazing decade. Like, that's the break clause, Right. Even though it's not like, legally not a break clause.

[Tim Howard]

Right?

[Landon Donovan]

Here's my take on the title race right now. Manchester City have given us no reason, literally no reason other than the last five weeks to suggest they won't at some point come good. What does come good mean when it's out, they will get everybody healthy and they will make a charge for the title. Now hear me out. It's eight points. It's real precarious because like we talk about six pointers and must wins and all that kind of stuff. If City, if City lose the lead, balloons to 11 for Liverpool.

[Tim Howard]

You change your mind then?

[Landon Donovan]

Yes, because then there has to be a capitulation by Liverpool. Liverpool will have a dip. Unless they become the Invincibles or semi invincibles, they'll have a dip. So with an 11 point cushion you can have an amazing dip. You can have an amazing dip as long as it's not a capitulation. So yes, at that point it's done and dusted for me. If City win, by the way, City can win at Liverpool. Like come on, it's still Manchester City. I know things are going. I think they're trending in opposite directions. If they win at Liverpool, right, number one, they still can do the old like Pedro Martinez like who's your daddy? Right. Cause we're at our worst in the last five years and we still beat you. Right? But then it goes to five points. Five points, you sneeze and you can lose a five.

[Tim Howard]

Yeah, yeah, I get it.

[Landon Donovan]

Right. And so for me, I will make a real abrupt final decision. Final. Got a long way to go after next weekend. Because it matters to me. It matters to me if it goes from, from 8 to 11 or 8 to 5. That, that to me is a big difference.

[Tim Howard]

But all right, we'll follow up after next weekend and we'll see where we're at.

[Landon Donovan]

Yeah.

[Tim Howard]

All right, let's move to the other team. In Manchester United under Ruben Amaran for the first time. So they score after whatever, however many seconds.

[Landon Donovan]

Yeah.

[Tim Howard]

Less than a.

[Landon Donovan]

Under two minutes or so.

[Tim Howard]

Under two minutes into the game. But from that point on I would say not real inspiring. I just want to, for United fans out there, take a deep breath. This is going to take so much time and I'll tell you why, Tim. So I watched the game and I was curious why his lineup was the way he was. It was a pretty old, mature, seasoned lineup. Right. And he came out after. Yeah, not his best play. And he came out after and said, look, I went with the guys who were here with me all week, not away on international break. Totally get it. But the reason Manchester United signed him and brought him on board was because of what he did right in Portugal. And what he did in Portugal took a long time. It takes time to develop a way of playing. And so I'm going to have a little dig at your, your commentators on NBC. Like I was waiting for them to walk us through what exactly they did besides saying they're in a three, four, three. Okay, I can see that with my own eyes. Can you tell me what's going on on the field? And what I found interesting is so first just positionally where they line up. Mazraoui played as a right center back, Diego Dalo as a kind of a left center back. They were almost like double width with he and Garnacho there on the left. And there were some moments where Dollo would start really high and come down to receive the ball and it made it tough because Ipswich were basically pressing man to man. So Rashford, you can see why this will help Marcus Rashford long term if teams come after them because he gets isolated kind of 1v1 or he can run into out and run in behind defenses but their problem early is going to be personnel. Like he does not have the players that fit the way he wants to play. So I wouldn't be surprised if Mainoo comes in, Mason Mount comes in. They're going to, I mean Luke Shaw is left center back I really like in that. So he needs players. Xerxe I think will help but I think personnel right now is going to be the biggest issue. But if you're a Manchester United fan, just take a breath. This is going to take time.

[Landon Donovan]

Manchester United fans are brilliant because they always back the manager. They do. They're traditional for backing their managers, sticking with them. Ruben Amaran as of right now is the right guy for the job. And I'm not saying that after one game because here's the thing, I think he's going from what he says and I really like the way he speaks about the club. He talks about doing it his way. Right. And his post game comments, he said like we can try and get through right now and then we get to next preseason and we're starting all over again and we're in the same spot.

[Tim Howard]

He's right.

[Landon Donovan]

So he's going to implement his ideas. There's going to be growing pains. They'll maybe bring one or two players in the window. Don't know right if they can do that in terms of profit and sustainability rules. But obviously as the next big transfer window opens up in the summer, they'll get some players out. They'll bring his, his players in who understand his ideas and his philosophy and I think they'll like at a certain point Manchester United need to just. And they do, they stick by their managers. But they need to give him the time he needs. The I think the hierarchy structure with any Osens or Jim Radcliffe and Omar Barada and everyone under Dan Ashworth and the people underneath him is in a really good place and as long as they give him the time they need that this will get better. You can already see the identity. Can already see the identity. He speaks very well about the club and what he wants from his players. And in fact so much so that he said, we scored the goal early on. I want longer possession after that. And what he means by that is in the past with 10 Hag, they were a sit, lie in wait and counter attack team. And his point is that's natural for. So as soon as they scored a goal, what do they do? They sit off the ball a little bit. So he's basically saying that's going to happen, but I want my teams and we're going to get better at this is we score one goal, then we get on the attack again and we go again. And so I like, I like where it's going.

[Tim Howard]

Curious what you guys think. Is the title race over? You happy with the direction United's going in, even after a kind of lackluster first game? I actually, I personally like it. I like the ideas. Personnel is going to be a big deal. But is the title race over? I think it is, Tim. Maybe not so sure, but we'll see. Let's take a quick break. When we come back, we'll talk U.S. men's National Team. But yes, we will talk about Christian's dance from a unique angle. I think that we are uniquely qualified to talk about right here on Unfiltered Soccer with Landon and Tim, presented by Volkswagen. We'll be right back.

[Landon Donovan]

The Unfiltered Soccer podcast is brought to you by Volkswagen, the presenting partner of U.S. soccer.

[Tim Howard]

Since 2019, Volkswagen has been on a mission to drive the future of the sport we all love. And VW is committed to making it more diverse, inclusive and accessible for everyone.

[Landon Donovan]

They're not just talking about it, they're out there doing it. VW's partnerships, programs and soccer clinics are unlocking opportunities for the next generation of players and fans.

[Tim Howard]

As a longtime friend of Volkswagen, I've seen firsthand how VW are, are connecting with fans and driving the sport forward. From working with them on clinics to being part of their incredible campaigns, it's clear U.S. soccer is truly powered by the people.

[Landon Donovan]

Thank you to VW for being our presenting partner. Learn More about how VW are supporting US Soccer at VW.com want to shop Walmart Black Friday deals first. Walmart plus members get early access to our hottest deals. Join now and get 50 off a one year annual membership. Shop Black Friday deals first with Walmart plus see [e-mail] this is a segment we like to call US LNT on US MNT. I've had a lot to say about Christian Pulisic and the Post Gold celebration. So I want to hear before I speak again what you have to say about the matter. Ld take it away.

[Tim Howard]

Yeah, look, we don't want to beat a dead horse. Um, but this is important. And it all happened really fresh last week. So he scores a goal against Jamaica. He runs to the corner, does the Trump dance. That's become, you know, popular in sports culture. And I just want to say, look, this is not. It's. It is about politics, but it's not about politics for me right now. This is about being a leader and being a captain of a US national team. I want to take people back. And you remember this, Tim. 2004, February 2004. I'm in Olympic qualifying. You dealt with it with the men's national team. I'm an Olympic qualifying. And we're in Mexico playing semifinal game. And Mexican fans are there. And this was after 9, 11, and after we had then started going after Osama bin Laden. And fans throughout the stadium as we were losing to Mexico were chanting, osama, Osama, Osama. Okay? And this was one of the most tragic days in the history of the United States, right? September 11, 2001. And first of all, you're losing a game that you care about. You're not qualifying for the Olympics. But on top of that, they're just throwing that in your face, right? And guess who was the captain of that team? Me. I cannot tell you how many things I wanted to say after the game. I cannot tell you what I wanted to do in that moment. Go into the stands and just go off on people. I understood in a hard moment that was not the right thing to do. Okay? Now, I'm not saying this is exactly apples to apples. What I'm saying is Christian doesn't have to be, in my opinion, does not have to be a role model. I like my professional athletes to be role models. But I get it, right? Everyone has their own thing. He does, however, need. He needs to be aware of what his actions do. And so you said this great. In your column that you wrote for the Daily Mail, you said and you've said this to me many times and I really respect this. You say, if you're going to be whatever you're going to be, no problem, just own it. Just own it. So if you're going to do the dance, one, make sure you know what you're doing. Two, if you're going to do it, you better be all in because you're going to cause a stir with this, right? But then don't come to the podium after the game and say, oh, I didn't really know what I was doing. It was just a cool dance I saw people do. Like that doesn't cut it for me. Right. That's not okay. If you say, look, I believe Trump was the best candidate and I voted for him and I'm supporting him, fine, no problem. That's your prerogative. You can do what you want. Just like we talked about with Joey Bosa and others who are showing their Make America great hat again. Make America great again hat. And then going to the press conference and saying, oh, no, no, it wasn't political or I'm not taking questions, no questions about that. Come on, bro, don't do that. So again, this is not about in that way. It's not about politics. It's about being aware of your situation. Guess what's coming in 18 months to the U.S. the World Cup. You do something like that on the stage where hundreds of millions of people are watching, you can have a real impact in the world. Like I'm getting goosebumps talking about, but you gotta be careful. And I'm not saying he will. And this is a learning lesson for him and I'm sure he has learned from it because he's a really bright kid and a nice, he's a nice young man, but you got to be careful.

[Landon Donovan]

Yeah, well, I mean, look, ld well said. I, I feel compelled because this is a different platform to clarify my comments. But the fact of the matter is in my daily Mail column, which I took, I've taken a lot of heat for, and I'm happy to live and work in the kitchen. So if you have things that you want to say to me, good and bad, bring it on. I welcome all of that. I don't mind it. But the fact of the matter is if you've ever been to Walgreens and you get that long receipt, I've got receipts as long as Walgreens. Regarding Christian Pulisic, when he was getting torn down by everybody about who he couldn't cut at Chelsea, there was a bald headed Guy with a beard who went on TV and said, you know what, don't think he's put a foot wrong for Chelsea. I think he's getting a raw end of the deal because he's American. He's getting hooked all the time before the end of the game. And I think it's absurd because I think he's that good. I have more respect for him or as much respect for him than any current or former U.S. men's national team player. I think the world. And by the way, he's a great kid. I've got nothing bad to say about him. So, like, from a clarification standpoint, all I'm saying is the Captain of America cannot, and I'll double and triple down on this, cannot do a celebration or a dance that is connected directly to the president elect, which is political, and then claim after the fact that they didn't know it was a political statement. That's all I'm saying. So when you write to me and you give me all the hate, which I've already read and dismissed, just know he is Christian Blizzard can vote for anybody he wants. We don't have to vote for the same presidential candidate. I don't care about that. I care that, as you said, if you're going to do something, own it. And by the way, again, for the record, I've screwed up a lot in my life. I've screwed a lot, A lot. Professionally, I've screwed up and I've had to own some things and I've had to look back and go, yeah, I'd have done that differently. So this isn't the pot calling the kettle black. This is from somebody who made mistakes on a big arena. So love Christian Pulisic. Love everything he's about. Truly do. Except for the fact that I think the Captain of America should own it. And by the way, I am putting more onus and emphasis. You've worn a captain armband, Landon, for America. I've walked out behind you as our captain. Yeah. If someone else did this, by the way. Right. And I don't want to name names, they wouldn't do it. If Timothy Weya did this, you know who I'd blame for that? The captain. I would.

[Tim Howard]

It's just part of it.

[Landon Donovan]

That's part of the responsibility. So end of, end of rant and listen.

[Tim Howard]

And that's. That's well said, too. And by the way, if I don't agree with some things you say, I'm going to tell you. So. I liked what you wrote in the Mail. This is not some love session we do here. We're honest with each other, which is what I've always respected about us. This is. This is something he needs to learn from. I am curious, and I think I know the answer. I don't think this could have played well with every. Every one of his teammates in both the national team locker room and for A.C. milan. Right. And that's another part of it, like when. When you do things that are controversial. When I took a break in 2013 from the national team during a qualifier, I damn well knew that, like, some guys are going to say, hey, what's going on here, pal?

[Landon Donovan]

Yeah.

[Tim Howard]

So the point is, and I think we're on the same page here, it's okay. You can do it. You do what you want. You live your life however you want, but don't back away from it and, you know, just be a man and own it.

[Landon Donovan]

Totally.

[Tim Howard]

And that's okay. So to that point, he then, I mean, we can say benched. He was benched on the weekend by Paulo Fonseca at Milan. And the public line was, you know, he had some issues going on, and he came from. Paulo Fonseca said he came from the national team with a problem yesterday and today. We tried, but he wasn't well. I couldn't let him play more. So if he's injured, you're not playing him, you're not risking him. He still played 20 minutes. I. I'm. I'm not saying there was something behind this, but I am a little curious now. Like, okay, was. Was there. Were they taught? Was something talked about? Was this just simply a soccer decision? I don't know, but it seems a little weird that you would bench your best player in a massive game against a huge rival when you're trying to get into Europe.

[Landon Donovan]

Yeah, well, look, the other side of that is we have to take that at face value for he, you know, we know South American and all, you know, and Australian and North American players, when they fly back to Europe, oftentimes the manager does take that into consideration, that they played, you know, two times, 90 minutes or whatever, and travel. So we have to. We have to allow that to also stand on its own as well. So take that soccer. Let's talk soccer.

[Tim Howard]

Soccer. All right. On the better side of things, Ricardo Pepe went back to his club and played. Wasn't benched. Banged in a hat trick. I loved his quote after he said, you know, people were asking him, he was out, I think, because De Jong was or he played because De Jong Was out and, you know, you think you're going to start the next game. And he said, well, usually when you score a hat trick, you start the next game, but we'll see what happens. There are reports of him making a move in 2025. One, do you think he should. And two, where do you think he should go?

[Landon Donovan]

Yeah. Ricardo Pepe, love your swagger, man. And let me say this because I believe it.

[Tim Howard]

Yeah, I do, too.

[Landon Donovan]

I want, and I'll say this forever. As long as we have football conversations. I, as a player, on the pitch, a goalkeeper, I want my strikers to be arrogant and angry and bold and brash and most of all, selfish. Right? We'll do the dirty work. But if we get you the ball, do me a favor, stick it in the back of the net, right? And when you don't get the ball, yell and scream at everybody, because, you know, if you get the ball, you put in the back of the net. Be arrogant, be brash. I love it. I love the comments. He's in a good vein of form, as we know. Flow is out with. With an injury. Ricardo Pepe can take advantage of that. Continue playing well, bang the goals. And when you get the opportunity, he will. He'll continue to get the opportunity because I, like I said, I believe it. If any manager has a goal, a goal scorer in good form, he's gonna. He's gonna play him or should play him. Now, if he gets in a starting lineup, you stay at PSV because it's a really good club. But, you know, the other thing is if you're scoring goals, people will take a chance on you. And if, and if he. And if a club comes after him, I don't know exactly where you should go, but if a club comes after him and they say, hey, look, we want you, here's the key to the car. Drive it every. Every single weekend. Then I think he has to chase more playing time. So we'll see.

[Tim Howard]

All right, well, you know my answer. Go where you are going to Play. You've got 18 months ahead of the World Cup. It is the only thing that matters. I would, if I'm him, I would be a little skeptical right now. If they, If PSV says, look, you're scoring, you're great, you're going to start. Because five games, you know, without a goal, and next thing you know, he's on the bench again. So he's got to be smart and strategic and all of our national team players right now, no matter where you are, you need to be really clever. In the next few months before the window, the next six to seven months before that window and then definitely leading into 2026, you have to be playing. I mean, that is crucial. So U.S. will face Panama. We didn't know that last time we were on. They will face Panama in Nations League in March and Mexico did not have to wait for a special exemption. They beat Honduras on their own and they will go through and play Canada. That should be a great game. So looking forward to those two in March. Should be a lot of fun. All right, we'll take another break. When we get back, we will go to the mailbag. I'm sure there. Well, not. I'm sure there definitely were lots of comments, Hundreds on the YouTube page. I read through a bunch of them. Some good, some not great. Lots of interesting insight, lots of interesting takes from people, lots of questions. So we'll answer some of your mailbag questions and then we will finish with anything but soccer. One of our favorite segments here on unfiltered soccer with Landon and Tim. Presented by Volkswagen.

[Landon Donovan]

Ld. The biggest sporting news of the weekend of the week, of the month of possibly the year. NWSL championship. Orlando beat the Washington Spirit 1 nil. Listen, hats off all the flowers in the world to Orlando. They did the double, won the NWSL championship. Won the NWSL shield for best regular season record. I mean, Barbara Banda, take a bow. I mean, stand up and take a bow. It was such an impressive year by the Orlando Pride and everything they're doing. You know, the game was in Kansas City, Kansas City. Current owners Chris and Angie Long. Again, what you've built there in Kansas City is phenomenal. You've played there. The crowd was sold out. It's a wow moment. It's a wow moment for the nwsl. Yeah, I just think about Marta, her mom, her mom being in the stands in America.

[Tim Howard]

First time, first time she ever came to see her play ever.

[Landon Donovan]

And that is literally fairy tale. Someone. I don't want to say it because I want to try and go get the rights to it, but that's a, that's a documentary that's going to, that's going to fly because what an amazing story for one of the best players, best football players to ever lace the boots up for, for her to culminate that moment with her mom watching in front of a sold out crowd in Kansas City. Take a bow.

[Tim Howard]

Incredible. And what Seb Heinz and Orlando did all year was, was incredible. I, coaching the Wave for the last few months of this season, didn't have the chance to Play against Orlando, but got to play in Kansas City. That stadium. Tim is phenomenal. Yep, phenomenal. And it's. Honestly, it's what every MLS team needed 10 to 15 years ago. I think it held 11,000 people, every seat, full chance. They know every player's name. They love that team. It's a shame Kansas City weren't in it, but Orlando were phenomenal. Marta, look, it's weird when you have players still playing that like we're paralleling our careers when we were playing. I remember Martha 20 years ago about, you know, being the best player in the world. So incredible for them to go start to finish, win the shield. They, I think they only lost one game and that was a game, I believe it was in Portland or in Seattle. And Seb Heinz just rested all his players.

[Landon Donovan]

Yeah.

[Tim Howard]

And so that was. They would have won that game too. They would. They wouldn't have lost all season. And so phenomenal year. They deserve it. And congrats to Washington spirit too, for getting there.

[Landon Donovan]

Totally.

[Tim Howard]

And then obviously you saw the news about Michelle kang and pledging $30 million to USSF for women's and girls programs. She is a superstar, by the way. She has put all her eggs into the women's soccer basket. And it's really impressive what she's done.

[Landon Donovan]

I mean, did I see it? I barely saw it. Cause I was floored once I saw it. Like, I couldn't believe what a, what a special moment that is. And I don't mean at all to be selfish, but to be the father of a young woman chasing her soccer dreams, going to the University of Tennessee to play big time Division 1 soccer, and knowing that she hopes to one day represent this country on that level and play in the NWSL. It's like that pledge of $30 million to the U.S. soccer Federation. It's like. And oh, by the way, Michelle Kang gets the right to have the final decision on where the money gets allocated.

[Tim Howard]

Yeah, that's crucial.

[Landon Donovan]

That's crucial. And it's just such a wonderful, powerful moment for women's soccer. But soccer. And by the way, the women's soccer players, young female soccer players deserve this. And it's just such an awesome opportunity for the game. And the fact that her Washington spirit was in the final, like, it just felt enormous. It felt enormous for Orlando, but it felt enormous for, for Washington spirit as well. And I just thank you, thank you, Michelle Kang, for, for your generosity before your vision. I think it's a. I think it's a very powerful, powerful moment. And it's Going to be a seismic shift globally.

[Tim Howard]

Yeah, I had. I have a six year old daughter too. We were just in on vacation with her this week and her getting to spend time around some of the Wave players and watch the games and just watching. She now loves soccer. Loves it. And so people like Michelle Kang doing what they do. You know who she is, Tim? She is the equivalent of someone that I had the pleasure of playing for at the LA Galaxy, Phil Anschutz. And he was understated, quite literally by himself. Kept Major League Soccer alive decades ago when the league was on the verge of folding. An absolute legend in the game. And she is, she is well on her way to doing the same for women's soccer. So thank you from all of us, Michelle Kang, and long may it continue. All right, let's tap into mailbag questions. I am sure, Jordan, they are going to be very interesting after a lot of. A lot of interesting comments we had last week. So let's go.

[Landon Donovan]

J riz, yours talk to us.

[C]

Let's start with maybe an easy one. Mario on YouTube said, How does Landon feel about Messi getting to 58 assists with his national team?

[Tim Howard]

You know, he's a small player, so the fact that someone of that stature matched me, it's not that relevant. Like, someone sent me a text and I had, believe this or not, you guys, but I had no idea that was going on. But someone sent me a text and said, wow, what an amazing tweet. And I opened it and it was like a. It's so stupid. It's a picture of me and Messi and it was something like tied on 58 assists. I'm like, this is an absolute joke, but I screenshotted the hell out of that thing. I'm plastering everywhere. Congrats to him. I have no idea why it took him that long. Um, because he probably really had more. I think it's because they used to give me those hockey assists back in the day, where you like, if you touch it, if you pass it 50 yards and a guy dribbles eight guys and then rolls it across the goal, I would still get an assist. So, anyway, I appreciate that. Why?

[Landon Donovan]

I know why. Because he, he holds onto the ball way longer than you did because he just keeps on dribbling and then scores a thousand goals.

[Tim Howard]

Yeah, yeah, he actually had a few more goals than me, but no, it's pretty sweet. Um, but please don't get another one. Messi. Let's, let's.

[Landon Donovan]

I didn't know that.

[Tim Howard]

Forever be tied.

[C]

Uh, okay. How about an email question, because we' Some of those. All right, so we had a very nice email from Stephen, who wanted to know why not encourage elite players to push back at the national team organizational faults in England. Harry Kane may need to captain, but the injuries, like with Jon Stones recently showed likely difficulties that are possible. And the history of Roy Keane with Ireland or the Canada women shows how a lack of professionalism infects these national team organizations.

[Tim Howard]

Okay, that's juicy. Wow. So he's saying that their national team environment is not good, and so they should push back on going.

[C]

The captain should be speaking out about it.

[Tim Howard]

Okay, so that's certainly not the case with England. Right. Because that environment is great. But I know Tim, and you can speak to this, too. I know lots of players who would say it was the opposite of what we talked about last week. We loved going into camp, standards were high, got to stay in great places, great fields, got to go out, have dinners, whatever. But there are lots that. It's a joke when they go back to their national team. Like, the environment's bad, they train on bad fields, they stay in terrible hotels, they fly economy across the globe. And. Yeah, that's a. It's a really good point. The problem is, is federations are bound by their resources. Right. And so for the longest time, and actually still to this day, speaking of Canada, they just don't have a lot of resources. I mean, it's just the reality. So they have to pick and choose, you know, what they can spend their money on.

[Landon Donovan]

Yeah, you make a great point. And let me also put in the human element to that. Right. Roy Keane, he's a guy who I love and respect, and I'm thankful I have a relationship with to this day. People often use the word one of a kind. He is one of a kind. Right. Most people, and I get your point, push back against your country, and a lot of players do. But when you're a player and you have the opportunity to fulfill a lifelong dream of going to a World cup, which is what everyone's goal is, every four years, when you. When you've got one hand on that dream, man, you have a look in the mirror sometimes and you're like, maybe, maybe I'll just keep my mouth shut a little bit longer. Because, like, Roy Keane walked out of a World Cup. Nobody's doing that. Like, that's an amazing stance. And, like, I just. I think a lot of players behind the scenes will. Will do what they can to lobby and try and get things right for themselves and their team. But ultimately aren't willing to sacrifice speaking out over accomplishing their lifelong dream. And like I said, I couldn't fault that.

[Tim Howard]

So, yeah, fair enough.

[C]

Okay. Speaking of the national team, Christian on YouTube said, I know the federation won't do it, but it would be nice to hold the September and October camps in Europe and play UEFA nations in friendlies, which would save our players a lot of travel since most of the team is there and get some fixtures against decent European nations. With the congested schedule as it is, it would be nice to see maybe work out something with Ernie Stewart and PSV to have a home away from home.

[Tim Howard]

Yeah, I mean, it's a good point and that has happened a lot over the years. There have been camps where, you know, you play in Poland and then Germany play in Switzerland and Sweden, you. But I think it still holds true. What we said last week is most of these teams are either in qualifying or they're playing in Nations League. So it's still going to be a challenge. The idea is. Right, I don't mind that at all, but it's still going to be a challenge, Tim, because they're not. All those teams are already tied up in FIFA in real FIFA games.

[Landon Donovan]

Yeah, look, I think the point of the question is accurate. The fact that everyone's wrapped up in Nations League, time zone, television slots and fixture, it all plays a part. I know it seems like simplistic, but big shout out to Bob Bradley because there was a time in 2007 when he was like, he took over the team, he was like, guys, pack your bags, get ready to be uncomfortable. We're going to Europe, we're going to some tough places and we're going to compete on those nights. And to his credit, one of the best teams, you know, in the history of the national team was, Was under his tutelage. So yeah, we, I think players would relish that. Players would relish it. To be in Europe to set up camp there. So many of our players play. There would be great opportunity for our younger American players to go abroad and experience that. But the fact of the matter is the fixture congestion the nations leagues. It's really hard now to, to find a double match window where you're like, oh, we just go over Europe and camp out. Just doesn't happen anymore.

[Tim Howard]

Bob used to always say before every camp, every camp in Europe, he'd say, look, look, guys, look. When everybody, he would say, opens the paper tomorrow. Because people used to read the paper when everybody opens the paper tomorrow, they want to see the US Beat someone big. All right? He would say. I'd say, okay, Bob, good. And it's a friendly. It's a friendly look every time.

[Landon Donovan]

So it was never a friendly to Bob. You know that.

[Tim Howard]

No, he loved.

[Landon Donovan]

He could compete. He loved to compete and he instilled that in us, which is brilliant.

[Tim Howard]

Agreed.

[C]

Okay, last one.

[Landon Donovan]

Give it to us.

[C]

You guys did some interviews with your former club Everton, this past week. So Chris sent us an email and said, as a big Everton fan, I'm curious, what is your favorite memory of Goodison Park?

[Tim Howard]

Oh, you're gonna have a lot more than me, but do you have one off top of your head?

[Landon Donovan]

Yeah, I've got a few.

[Tim Howard]

That's a. I'm getting hard questions. Jesus. All right, let me start. So my last game ever at Goodison, or maybe it was the first stint we played Hull, I believe Hole was in the Premier League. Yeah, I do. And I'll never forget this because before the game, we were on a decent run of form. And Moyes in the locker room said, guys, it's about time we win one of these games, like 3, 4, 5, nil. Like, let's stop, like, squeaking through these games. So we play the game. It's late in the game and we're up 4 nil or 4 1. And Leighton Baines crossed the ball. It skipped through to me and I hit like, the perfect little half volley into the side netting. And it was either Fizz, Phil Neville or Rodwell, or someone picked me up and the whole crowd was chowning. Usa. Usa. Usa. And I knew it was my last. Like, we all knew it was my last game. And it was just a feeling like that as a soccer player is why people struggle when they stop playing. Because you cannot replicate that ever again in your life. Yeah, having kids is amazing. Marriage, amazing. All these things you do. But nothing replicates a moment like that. And I will never, ever forget it.

[Landon Donovan]

Yeah. Yeah. Mine minor is the beginning and end. And it's. It's impossible to answer that question with just one, because there was. You know, in 10 years, I had some of the greatest moments of my life. Everton Football Clubs, you know, aside from my two children, the greatest thing that's ever happened to me, it saved me on many occasions. It gave me the greatest highs in life. So, you know, when I left Manchester United, bear in mind, I already had, you know, the Manchester United, Liverpool games are the things of legends. And when I went to Everton, the first thing I was looking forward to was the Derby. I was looking forward to Derby week Because everyone talks about it. Like you've never experienced derby week on Merseyside. You don't know what it's like. So I was like, I was hungry for it. Um, man, it was a sunny day because the Merseyside Derbys always played early, so the pubs don't open and they get everybody in the ground quickly. And the sun was shining. It was a blue sky. Doesn't happen very often. And we beat Liverpool 3 nil. And it was like, I was like, oh, wow, this is easy. It wasn't easy because we had some tussles over the years. But that was an amazing moment to beat Liverpool 3 nil on in my first Merseyside derby. And then, then the last, my last game, my last game was. Spent 10 years at the club. It was emotional. It was the greatest send off that I could have ever asked for, like Landon said. And just to be. To have a guard of honor of my own players and to be able to speak to the Goodison crowd and have them shower me with love and affection and me. To be able to give it back was, you know, one of the greatest days of my life.

[C]

That was lovely, guys.

[Tim Howard]

Thank you.

[Landon Donovan]

You're crying, Jordan.

[C]

Yeah, getting emotional.

[Landon Donovan]

Get out of here.

[Tim Howard]

I'm not crying. You're crying. All right. Thanks, junior. All right, Timmy. Anything but soccer. What do you got for us this week?

[Landon Donovan]

Yeah, so. So an interesting thing happened in the NBA, right? The Philadelphia 76ers. They've clearly been. Yeah. League's biggest disappointment so far this season. Following a particularly bad loss versus Miami, the players held a players only meeting. Let me tell you, I love and hate, but also love players only meetings. And what I mean by that is there are times when I'm like, yeah, let's get everybody in here and talk. Let's have some real home truths. Some people need to hear things and other times I'm like, oh God. Who just called a players only meeting. The contents of that meeting were leaked to the media and in particular Maxie had a go at Joel emb and he challenged him for being on time for Joel embarrassment. He's the biggest player there. Clearly that he's late for everything and impacts the players. And it was a big, big issue. So let's talk about one, players only meetings and two, leaks from within the locker room. Because it. Because there's an unwritten rule.

[Tim Howard]

Okay, so let me start. It's not unwritten. I mean it's written. Well, I guess it is unwritten, but how the hell this gets leaked is crazy. First of all, second of all.

[Landon Donovan]

When.

[Tim Howard]

You'Re having a players only meeting, that means there's dysfunction. Like there's some bad stuff going on. Right. Somewhere in the club or with the team, whatever. When someone leaks it, exponentially worse. Yeah, I mean, it is, it is. First of all, it's so disrespectful. I don't care how pissed you are, how upset you are, you have a players only meeting, it stays right there. By the way, guess who's not in the players only meeting? Coaches, staff, Nobody. It's just players.

[Landon Donovan]

It came from inside, right?

[Tim Howard]

So it's like. And by the way, a basketball team has 12 players, right? Maybe 15. It's tiny. So that it's disgusting. First of all, it gets leaked, but it just tells you the state that that team is in is really bad, Tim. Like really bad. And I, I don't blame Joel Embiid right now, first of all, for. He's like on a. He's on a mission to go find out who, who leaked it, as you should think. I think I have a few ideas. Yeah. But the other side of it is I do blame him in part for the team getting to this.

[Landon Donovan]

Totally.

[Tim Howard]

Right. Like, if you're the lead. We just talked a long time about Christian Pulisic and like being a leader and what that means showing up late for everything. The first thing you should be able to do is show up on time.

[Landon Donovan]

Minimum. Yeah.

[Tim Howard]

This is your job. By the way, you're getting paid how much? 25, 33. Just show up on time, dude. It's not that hard. Show up on time. Right? That's a starting point. All the other stuff, I don't know, we don't have context. We don't know if he's hurt.

[Landon Donovan]

Sure.

[Tim Howard]

He's not why he's playing, why he's resting. But dude, you got to show up on time. That's a starting point.

[Landon Donovan]

Totally. I, I mean, the fact, the fact of the matter is I, I remember it happening and it happens. It happens in soccer, right? Where like the ma. The managers. And you've been a part of this. With made Everton, the manager will have to balance. Like, does he give. Does he tell the starters they're starting the night before? And normally, sadly, he's like, no, I can't tell you guys the night before because players tell their agents and they leak the information. And what happens? For our listening public, what happens is players are so temperamental and insecure. And I was and you were, and everybody is. I mean, you want to see a really Insecure human being. Show me an athlete. And it's, everybody wants to be loved. So what you end up doing is you're not in the starting lineup, right? Even if you get told the day of the game, you go back in the dressing room, you've got your boys on the other team and you text them and you're like, yo, I'm not playing today. So all of a sudden he goes to his manager, right? And he says, hey, so and so is not playing on the right wing. So, boom, automatically the other team knows. And if you get enough players doing that, things start to leak.

[Tim Howard]

Piece together the lineup.

[Landon Donovan]

Yeah, it's stupid. People ask questions, they get hit up by the raging. And I've literally. I love my agent. He's a mentor to me, he's a dear friend, he's a colleague. I've never given him a team. Like, if he called me and I said, I'd say, dan, stop calling me and ask me for the team. But the other side of it is, which I always love, is when you have a players only meeting, it means you've hit rock bottom. And I have a saying in life, be careful of rock bottom. Because rock bottom oftentimes has a trap door, right? And so this concept of, like, the stuff's hit the fan, we're solo, we're going to get in there and have a team meeting and figure it out. I was on teams and I've said this to people because I was a leader and I rarely called it a team meeting because I'm not 100% sure of them. People would come to me and say, tim, we need a players only meeting. And I would say to them back, just know that if we have a players only meeting, we better freaking figure it out. Because what you don't want to do is have a players only meeting, still suck, and then two weeks later have a players only meeting. Like. And then, by the way, that happens a lot.

[Tim Howard]

So look, I went. I spent a lot of years in therapy when I was living in la. Seven years, like almost every week. And here's what happened, because let's be honest, this is a therapy session, right? When you have a players only meeting, some people are more honest than others, but some people just let it go. And it's good to some extent. But what happens is, so you go to therapy, you talk for an hour and a half, some bombs come up, some things happen that you had never thought about. You're like, oh, my God, I can't believe I felt that way about my dad. And my mom and this and that. And then you go, okay, I feel better. I let it out. But guess what happens when you go home and two or three days later you go, oh, wait, but what about that? And what about that? And wait, but then my mom said that and my dad did that. And so what you do is a few days later you go, oh, you know, when that, my left winger said that about me not tracking back. But then what did that mean? So what you need is then you need some level of either individual follow up or collectively like you actually work through the problems. And now the problem with the Sixers is now there's a leak. So now everyone, nobody trusts anybody.

[Landon Donovan]

Now it's a bigger problem.

[Tim Howard]

It's a bigger problem. So your point? There was a trap door and they all fell through it. Right. And now it's a big problem. Man, it's going to be fun for us because I don't have a dog in the fight. Not a Sixers fan. But like it's going to be really fun to watch as this progresses because it's going to be a total dumpster fire. Yeah, I don't see how it gets any better. So. All right, man, well, appreciate it. Appreciate the time. Timmy. Everybody, thanks for listening. Thanks for tuning in. Thanks for watching. Please leave your comments questions again so we can get to them in the mailbag next week. Remember to subscribe on YouTube, Apple Podcast, Spotify or wherever you get your pods and follow the show across all our social media platforms at Unfiltered Soccer for lots of bonus content.

[Landon Donovan]

Yeah, thank you everybody for listening for all of your comments and all the love and some of the hate. Listen, enjoy the turkey, enjoy the sides. Most importantly, enjoy your families love on each other. Have a great Thanksgiving. We'll be back next Tuesday with another edition of Unfiltered Soccer.