Mbappe's Red Card, Salah's Contract Signed, & the CONCACAF Gold Cup Draw

Summary

Unfiltered Soccer with Landon Donovan and Tim Howard: Detailed Summary

Episode Title: Mbappe's Red Card, Salah's Contract Signed, & the CONCACAF Gold Cup Draw
Release Date: April 15, 2025

In this episode of Unfiltered Soccer, hosts Landon Donovan and Tim Howard delve into a variety of pressing topics in the soccer world, ranging from the CONCACAF Gold Cup draw to notable performances in Major League Soccer (MLS) and international leagues. Below is a comprehensive breakdown of the key discussions, insights, and conclusions from the episode.

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1. CONCACAF Gold Cup Draw Analysis

Group D Focus: USA's Group Composition

The hosts kick off the discussion with an analysis of the Gold Cup draw, specifically highlighting the USA's placement in Group D alongside Costa Rica, Mexico, Suriname, and the Dominican Republic.

• Landon Donovan expressed indifference initially:
  "My initial thoughts when I saw the draw for the US Is I don't care. You're basically looking at a Costa Rica, Mexico crossover." (00:00)

• Tim Howard questioned the grouping strategy:
  "Why would they do that?" (00:07)

They explore the implications of potentially facing a strong Mexico team early in the tournament, emphasizing the challenges it poses for the US team to advance seamlessly.

• Landon Donovan revises his stance after further discussion:
  "Now that I said I don't care, I'm backtracking." (00:15)

The conversation underscores the excitement and apprehension surrounding the Gold Cup, with both hosts keen on providing comprehensive coverage and insights leading up to the 2026 World Cup.

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2. MLS Highlights and Trade Analysis

Vancouver’s Impressive Performance and Brian White’s Four Goals

The episode transitions to MLS, highlighting Vancouver's notable achievements and Brian White's standout performance.

• Tim Howard commends Vancouver's recent success:
  "Brian White, four goals against Austin FC. Yep, they're top of the table." (04:00)

• Landon Donovan draws parallels to his national team scoring feats:
  "I think it just every... if it's a good game for you, you're going to get three, four, maybe five pretty quality chances." (04:20)

The hosts praise Brian White's efficiency and discuss the importance of recognizing MLS talent for the US Men’s National Team (USMNT).

Discussion on MLS Trades: Daniel Gazdag’s Transfer

The conversation shifts to the recent trade of MLS's all-time leading scorer, Daniel Gazdag, to the Columbus Crew for $4.5 million in cash.

• Tim Howard analyzes the trade dynamics:
  "I like when clubs have an identity and I think Dallas is a little Bit like this, too. FC Dallas is." (06:14)

• Landon Donovan critiques the trading strategy:
  "I think it's stupid that in this country and in our league... the best players in MLS are already there." (07:22)

The hosts debate the sustainability of such trades, the impact on team chemistry, and the broader implications for MLS’s growth and player development.

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3. Premier League Updates

Manchester City vs. Crystal Palace: A Thrilling Comeback

The hosts discuss Manchester City’s recent 5-2 victory over Crystal Palace, focusing on Pep Guardiola's unconventional celebrations and the team's resilience.

• Landon Donovan shares his admiration for Guardiola’s character:
  "He's over the years, he's had this like, love-hate thing with the City fans... he is definitely special." (15:08)

• Tim Howard highlights key Premier League races:
  "Villa one away at Southampton, three zero. Good for them." (15:07)

They also touch upon other Premier League teams' performances, including Everton’s surprising position and Tottenham Hotspur’s recent struggles.

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4. US Men’s National Team (USMNT) Performances

Christian Pulisic’s Stellar Season and Team Dynamics

A significant portion of the episode is dedicated to analyzing USMNT players' performances, particularly highlighting Christian Pulisic’s exceptional season.

• Tim Howard praises Pulisic’s contributions:
  "Christian was awesome. In 4 nothing dismantling of Udinese, he had another assist." (35:05)

• Landon Donovan emphasizes Pulisic’s vision and playmaking skills:
  "He's got vision, right? But... he has the ability to get yourself in key positions to make the pass." (38:14)

Additionally, the hosts discuss concerns regarding Weston McKinney’s involvement in illegal online betting and its repercussions on his career.

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5. European Soccer News

Mo Salah’s Contract Extension and Kylian Mbappe’s Red Card Incident

Mo Salah’s Two-Year Extension with Liverpool

The episode covers Mo Salah’s recent contract extension with Liverpool, ensuring his presence at the club for the next two years.

• Landon Donovan commends Liverpool’s management:
  "Hats off to them for doing that in a classy way." (20:13)

They also mention the anticipated contract negotiations with Virgil Van Dijk, signaling Liverpool's intent to retain their key players.

Kylian Mbappe’s Red Card: A Controversial Moment

The hosts react to the bizarre red card incident involving Kylian Mbappe, critiquing the nature of the foul.

• Tim Howard describes the incident:
  "Mbappe did that. If you just go Google it and YouTube it. It's bizarre." (42:38)

• Landon Donovan reflects on Mbappe's reputation:
  "Doesn't seem like that tackle was naughty. But by God, what a naughty tackle." (43:48)

They express concern over the potential impact of such incidents on Mbappe’s reputation and the broader title race implications.

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6. Rory McIlroy’s Masters Victory

Emotional Triumph at the Masters

A heartfelt segment covers Rory McIlroy’s victory at the Masters, highlighting the emotional journey leading to his win.

• Tim Howard shares his emotional response:
  "He breaks down and he's bawling his eyes out. I could feel it in him." (58:46)

• Landon Donovan reflects on the pressures athletes face:
  "When you're an athlete, you're basically asked to throw everything else aside." (60:02)

The hosts commend McIlroy’s perseverance and the raw emotions displayed during his triumph, drawing parallels to the intense pressures faced by soccer players.

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7. Listener Questions and Feedback

Engaging with the Audience

The episode features interactions with listeners, addressing concerns and feedback regarding ownership in MLS and investment in the US Men’s National Team.

• Adam’s Feedback on DC United’s Ownership:
  "Maybe the only way to get the ball rolling, to get them to sell." (47:33)

• Bethany’s Concerns on Investment Equality:
  "You want an investor? Go get one." (48:15)

Joey’s Memory from Playing Days

A charming interaction with young listener Joey (seven years old) elicits reflections from the hosts about their memorable playing moments.

• Tim Howard recounts a locker room celebration:
  "There's just random people sit, and within minutes, it's just a party." (52:38)

• Landon Donovan shares a nostalgic first cap experience:
  "My first cap was in Birmingham, Alabama, at Legion Field." (54:16)

The segment underscores the personal connections and cherished memories that define their careers.

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Conclusion

In this episode, Landon Donovan and Tim Howard provide an in-depth analysis of current soccer events, blending professional insights with personal anecdotes. From scrutinizing tournament draws and league performances to celebrating individual achievements and addressing listener feedback, the hosts offer a comprehensive and engaging perspective on the beautiful game.

Notable Quotes:

• "We've been in there. You have to avoid Mexico." – Landon Donovan (35:55)
• "Winning is contagious. Losing is also contagious." – Tim Howard (24:36)
• "There's nothing that will take you on emotional roller coaster in real time the way sports do." – Tim Howard (58:59)

For those who missed the episode, this summary encapsulates the essence of the discussions, providing valuable insights into the dynamic world of soccer.

Transcript

[Landon Donovan]

My initial thoughts when I saw the draw for the US Is I don't care. You're basically looking at a Costa Rica, Mexico crossover.

[Tim Howard]

Why would they do that?

[Landon Donovan]

That's a great question.

[Tim Howard]

I've seen it, Tim, in lots of tournaments where one slip up and you go, oh, no, now it's US Mexico in the quarterfinals.

[Landon Donovan]

Now that I said I don't care, I'm backtracking.

[Tim Howard]

Gotcha. Unfiltered Soccer with Landon and Tim, presented by Volkswagen. Volkswagen has long been a supporter of soccer in America and has proudly been a partner of U.S. soccer for the past five years.

[Landon Donovan]

LD what's happening, kid? How are you?

[Tim Howard]

Good morning.

[Landon Donovan]

It's.

[Tim Howard]

I'm tired. To me, I had a long weekend.

[Landon Donovan]

What did you. Had a long weekend. What did you do?

[Tim Howard]

No, no, I had a long weekend. It's early here, by the way. People don't realize the things I do for you. 6am here.

[Landon Donovan]

What did you do?

[Tim Howard]

I went to LA with a group of seven guys, golf guys. So we played golf in LA and then we went to dinner, drinks after, and then hung out all day and then went to the Dodger game yesterday.

[Landon Donovan]

You do realize our listeners. Yeah, yeah. Could care less because you went on a golf trip. How many bottles of red wine did you have over the steak?

[Tim Howard]

There's a lot out.

[Landon Donovan]

A lot. There's a lot.

[Tim Howard]

What about you? What'd you do?

[Landon Donovan]

I was. I went and visited.

[Tim Howard]

Oh, you went to see your daughter, huh?

[Landon Donovan]

I went and saw my son. He goes to the University of Tennessee, Chattanoog. So I flew down to Chattanooga on Thursday, spent a couple days with him. He's clever. He always gets his big shopping in when dad's there. A lot of. We do a lot of, like, Whole Foods meat section, you know, like the expensive cuts. And then. And then I went. Yeah, I went to Knoxville. Drove to Knoxville. My daughter and her recruiting class were there because there was a bunch of spring soccer games. So Tennessee played Virginia, Virginia Tech. Alabama was also there. So they have an amazing facility at the University of Tennessee. Also went to the Orange and white spring football game. Massive drama on. On campus because their quarterback. I saw that once, what, $4 million a year in nil. But currently, by the way, he has a nil contract from the university that pays him $10 million over the course of his career, which the payments, by the way, started when he was in a senior in high school.

[Tim Howard]

So are these. Do they. Do they write contracts for these nil deals? Meaning, like, is, did he get the 10 million up front? He's good like 2.

[Landon Donovan]

He gets like 2.

[Tim Howard]

So he won't get the rest.

[Landon Donovan]

He won't get the rest. So he entered the portal anyway. It was chaos. But like, it, it, it proved to me that, like, it's funny, you know, these things always happen where they're. They have. They're having to put safeguards in place.

[Tim Howard]

After the fact, right?

[Landon Donovan]

So now these kids are getting these big contracts and then they're like opting out as free agents, but there is no free agency, right? So now the universities have to kind of. Or the NCAA has to kind of go back and go, no, no, no. You have to. You've got to play out a certain amount of years before you can opt out of a contract. Right? Like, if they're going to treat these kids like pros, they got to treat them like pros. So anyway, fun weekend.

[Tim Howard]

Wild. Wild west, dude. Yeah, that's crazy as always, guys. Follow us on social media Unfiltered soccer. Subscribe to the show on YouTube and follow on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, anywhere you get your podcasts. Leave a rating helps people find us. And you can email us, email Jordan at feedbackiltered Soccer. All right, Timmy, let's start in mls. Big weekend in Vancouver. Geez, they've had a week, man. They advanced with late goal in the Champions cup. And then this weekend, Brian White, four goals against Austin fc. Yep, they're top of the table. After eight games, they're in the semifinals of the Champions Cup. Good things happening in Vancouver. I think. I'm trying to remember. I think I scored four goals one time in my career as with the national team against Cuba. Scoring four goals, you may be. You probably didn't do much that day. I think it was like 7, 0. Scoring four goals in a game at any level as a professional is a big deal, man. Big deal. And it's just every. It's one of those things where everything has to go right. Because generally in a game like that, if. If it's a good game for you, you're going to get three, four, maybe five pretty quality chances. And so everything's got to go right. So congrats to Brian Wright. Congrats to Vancouver.

[Landon Donovan]

Yeah.

[Tim Howard]

If you are Mauricio Pochettino.

[Landon Donovan]

Yeah.

[Tim Howard]

I mean, you got to pay attention, right? A guy who's in form and I mean, he's the opposite right now of Brandon Vasquez a little, who we haven't heard much of and ironically played in that game. But Brian White's doing the business, dude.

[Landon Donovan]

Yeah. Look, we hope we hope that there's a lot of attention being paid by the U.S. men's National Team staff to MLSers who aren't necessarily, you know, at the front of mind. Right. So what am I, what am I trying to say there? I'm trying to say, you know, u. S. Soccer in general, American soccer is lazy when it comes to identifying talent.

[Tim Howard]

Right.

[Landon Donovan]

We just take the people who are at the top of the list and then we, we forget about everybody else. So Brian, you know Brian White, hats off to him. He is, he and Vancouver, by the way, I hold my hand up, I'll always tell you when I get it wrong. I got it wrong. I mean, you did too. I won't throw it on the bus quite yet, but we got, we got it wrong. We got it wrong. I thought Vancouver, given all the, you know, how they finished last season and the turnover, I thought, not really sure about this team. Hats off to them for having a good off season and a fine start to the regular season. Again, they do it quietly. They're up there, up in Canada. People seem to forget about them. By the way, the best, one of the best cities in North America. Easily, easily. And so look, they're doing the business. And as you said, four goals is. Yeah. To the, to your main point, four goals is special because like sometimes you don't even get four chances in a game. Right. So you've got, maybe as a team.

[Tim Howard]

You don't get four chances like that. Right.

[Landon Donovan]

So your percentage, your, your percentage has to be really high on that day. So look, hopefully, if he can, if he continues to do the business, should he be, should he have an opportunity to go to Gold Cup. Absolutely. This is. We are not a country, as you and I continually talk about. We are not a country who produce goal scores, natural goal scorers. So if there's somebody who's firing them in. Absolutely, he should be, he should be in contention for the Gold cup squad.

[Tim Howard]

Well, definitely keep track on how they keep doing. NYCFC beat Philly 1 0. The big news, I think this was before the game, the union traded Daniel Gazdag, their all time leading scorer. Well, I say traded, transferred him for $4.5 million in cash to the Columbus Crew. As you know, Houston brought Jack McGlan earlier in the, in the off season, I believe, and, and paid a healthy sum for him. So they lost Jack mcglan and Daniel Gazdag. My, here's my, here's my take on this. So I like when clubs have an identity and I think Dallas is a little Bit like this, too. FC Dallas is. If that's who you are, then develop players or bring players in and make money on them. And I got no problem with it. And I'm sure fans probably hate it.

[Landon Donovan]

Yeah.

[Tim Howard]

I'm guessing coaches hate it because all of a sudden here, your top goal scorer is leaving. But that's fine if that's what you are. And that's. And then you'll develop the next one and he'll play for a few years and help you, and then you can sell him, too. So they can't get. They can't use the money to help their roster build and that stuff. But if you're an owner who's, you know, not one of the wealthiest in the league, you're going to take 4.5 million chips off the table and put it in your pocket and reinvest it maybe into the academy or whatever.

[Landon Donovan]

That's great to me. Well, I know you love it. I do, too. And I think it's for another. For another episode that you can't use. You can't use the money that you produce. Okay, that's. Yeah, that's a problem in mls, but we'll. We'll get there at some point or another decade, but whatever the fact of the matter. And I had actually had breakfast this weekend with a good friend of mine who's an owner of a USL team, and we were talking about this Gasdag trade, and I just thought to myself, I don't like using the word stupid, but I use it a lot. So I think it's stupid that in this country and in our league and yes, we did it Houston by paying cash for Jack McGlin. It blows my mind. The best players. I've said this all along. The best players in MLS are already there. Right? There's levels and there's thresholds, Landon. Right. So is Messi in the top? Like, who are the needle movers? Messi, Mbappe, Haaland, maybe De Bruyne. They're going to cost you a ton, right? There's a small layer. Go beneath that layer where most everybody else operates, and then there's a third layer to buy a player from South America, Europe. And by the way, we're getting players in MLS in European leagues like lower European leagues like Poland and Hungary. So your scouting network has to be so vast and that we don't pay a lot in terms of how building out our scouting networks, constantly getting it wrong. Right? Like, that's not me. That's not me talking. Just look at the designated players, and it's kind of an eye test. But if you go back to DPs across the league over the last 15 years, there's a lot more flops than there are successes. Would you agree with that? Okay, so. So my point is, we're willing to go, oh, I found this really good kid in the Romanian League, and you know, I know he was at, he was at Bayern Munich as a kid, but he's kind of fallen out of favor. So we pay for. Pay $4 million for him and he's going to come in and do a job. Why not go to Cincinnati? Why not go to LA Galaxy and go, hey, your second best player, I'm gonna give you $4 million for him. I'm gonna spend the money anyway. Right. These GMs and technical directors are so hell bent on trying to unearth the next gem. They're already in the league. Just go get them.

[Tim Howard]

Yeah, well, I think, I believe that's what this mechanism is being set up for. Right. And so you're starting to see it now. And when you see it the first few times, you're like four and a half million dollars they just gave. But the reality is, if you had to go, you know, buy a player in Ecuador or whatever, it's going to cost you that all in for sure.

[Landon Donovan]

And you don't know. And by the way, you don't know.

[Tim Howard]

And you know nothing. And you don't know if he's going to make it or not. You don't know he's going to adapt. You don't know if he fits the league. You don't know. Yeah, that's right.

[Landon Donovan]

And to that point, it's done all over the world. The conversation right now is Alexander Isaac at Newcastle and what he's going to cost. North of 100 million this summer, probably, probably 120 million. And talking about Arsenal going to get him and. Well, they're going to overpay. Yes. But if they buy him, they guarantee themselves 20 Premier League goals at least, and that's probably the title. Right. Or you can go into Europe and get someone and they might not adapt to the league. You already know that this player's in the league and he's going to score you goals. And so the bottom line is it's done everywhere else in the world. We're just in the mls, slow to the boil. So I'm glad it's happening.

[Tim Howard]

Yeah. Hopefully it changes. The other news at MLS was that they are continuing. They didn't make the decision to change to the Universal calendar, meaning the games would start, the league would start August, ish, Take a break in December, January, and then come back and finish in May like the rest of the world does. They did not decide to implement that, but it almost feels like a little bit like a trial balloon, like they're floating it out there to get people used to the idea of it and then they'll make the decision to do it. So they're going to continue to evaluate all of it and see, you know, they're going to hire professionals to do analysis on it, studies, whatever, and they'll consult with all the stakeholders who, who it means something to. And I think the key things here, the reason why they can't do it yet and they have to make sure is we've talked about the weather, which.

[Landon Donovan]

Is, which is, which is the point that everyone goes to first, which is.

[Tim Howard]

Yeah, weather, which is fine.

[Landon Donovan]

But this week you brought up some, some, a couple of factors to me that I'll be honest, I didn't even think about because I didn't dig deep enough. But I was, I was blown away the, the initial part of it. So why don't you explain to the listeners what, what you found out.

[Tim Howard]

The other piece of it is this also has to be approved by the players association because if you think of it now, every contract runs through December. So if your contract's up this year, it's December 2025, December 31st is your last payment. Right. Or December 15th or whatever. Now if you change the schedule, what happens to that player? Do they become a free agent then if they started it next year in 2026 and your contract was up December 2026, now you only have a five or six month contract from December 20 or August 2026 to December 20. So there's all these permutations. Plus sponsors have deals right through December.

[Landon Donovan]

Yes.

[Tim Howard]

So there's, there's lots of things that have to get changed and it's a big deal. I mean you, and you have to give people time to plan for it, think about it, get their contracts sorted out, whatever. So there's a lot to this. But I do think, I think the league will move there. Ultimately it feels like. Yeah, it just feels like it's going to happen.

[Landon Donovan]

Yeah, ultimately, I think so too. And you know, when you talk about the sponsorships and all the contracts, a certain point they're going to have to put a, they're going to have to add a mechanism to it. Right. Where they either tr. They either true people up with their contracts or they just extend by six months or it. It's not. It's not a straightforward process. So they're going to have to add some sort of clause or mechanism to obviously the bylaws to figure out how to get. How to get from August to basically January.

[Tim Howard]

And as always, it'll come down to money. All right, let's move on. The Premier League or Premier League, as you like to say. The correct City beat Palace 5 2. They were down 20 after 20 minutes, but they, you know, in the end, looks like they will still be a Champions League team. Yeah, yeah.

[Landon Donovan]

Little caveat. Did you see the. The. I mean, they obviously, they were down, but then they steamrolled them in the end. Dead City. But did you see pep, cordial. I don't know if you saw the antics, but anybody who watched the game, it's like, it's hilarious. You want to talk about, like a guy who is larger than life, Teflon, Untouchable. So he's. Over the years, he's like, had this like, love hate thing with the City fans. And like, most of the time that sounds like, oh, it. It's. It's unsettling. It's not. He just wins and he doesn't care. Right. So we. There's been times where he's been like, yo, where. Where's our fans? Like, why aren't you showing up? Like, everybody else knows that, like City fans. There's only like 30,000 actual City fans, you know, and which I can only imagine the comments that are going to flood in from this, but that's the reality. And so he's, he's oftentimes talked about like, where's our fans? Like, like it's a Champions League Wednesday night and they just don't. They're not there anyway. They're down two nil. So he must have been getting pelters on the touchline. So his team comes roaring back and he's just starts giving it to people like behind the bench, like, pointing to people like. You cheer now. Okay, not now cheer. Like, just like, just all sorts, like, cheeky banter. I love it, man. He is.

[Tim Howard]

He is.

[Landon Donovan]

He is definitely special.

[Tim Howard]

That's so good. I think the biggest. Yeah, the biggest talking points the rest of year will be these Champions League spots. So Villa one away at Southampton, three zero. Good for them. Yeah, but good for them. It was really important win. Forest lost to our Toffees. That's a bad loss, man. At home. Everton are obviously playing well, but that's a bad loss and they've got to be careful. They have to be careful. They've had a great year, but they could still.

[Landon Donovan]

They've had a great year. I think great win for Everton because, you know, the city around there in Nottingham, at Nottingham Forest is an awesome place to play. I've never been, but, like, just seeing, seeing the scenes every week is crazy. So obviously it's a big away win, but I still think Forester, you know, and I don't. And I don't mean this like, oh, it's. They'll creep over the line. I think they're. They're a good enough team where they've. They've showed they can rebound from difficult outings. They've done it all season. And I think they'll stay in the hunt and I think ultimately they'll be a Champions League team. But that's my personal opinion.

[Tim Howard]

Arsenal, drew, Brentford, they, you know, they rested, but they're. They're. They rested a bunch of players. Their focus is on the Champions League. I just, I need to say something real quick. I know we talked about this. I don't want to be a hater here, but the Declan Rice free kicks from the Champions League midweek. If you haven't seen them, go Google them. Look very happy for him. Huge win for Arsenal. It was great, but both goals and, you know, you can say I'm an idiot or whatever, but I've been on the field, I've seen it. I played, by the way, with the best free kick taker in the history of the sport, David Beckham, for seven years. So I know what it looks like. Okay? Both of them. First one, the wall is disaster, and that's on the goalkeeper. Second one, it's to the goalkeeper's side of the goal. Right? So people don't understand when you put a wall in front of you as a goalkeeper, you're telling your wall, you protect that side of the goal. I got this half.

[Landon Donovan]

Yeah.

[Tim Howard]

Okay. Right? Am I right?

[Landon Donovan]

Yes.

[Tim Howard]

Okay. I got this half. So what we would always say is goalkeeper should never get beat to his side of the goal.

[Landon Donovan]

Yes.

[Tim Howard]

Ever. Because that's why the wall's there. Otherwise, put the players somewhere else and just take the free kick straight up. Let's go. Mano a mano. So they're great free kicks and he hits them well. But, like, all of a sudden, this is so the Internet, dude. This is so the world we live in. It's like, is he one of the best free kick tick the world? And I'm like, you kidding me, dude? Like, stop he hit two good free kicks. I'm not taking that away from him, but. Get out of here, dude. It's just ridiculous.

[Landon Donovan]

I. I agree with that. I. I love Declan Rice. I mean, he. He's.

[Tim Howard]

I do, too, by the way.

[Landon Donovan]

He's top for me. Yeah, I know. But. But in terms of that conversation, I want to. I want to come back to something you said, because we're. We're fans of the game, and I obviously am a huge fan, so I want to come back to something on the Dave Beckham thing. Look, the Arsenal Brenford draw 1 1. We know Mikhail, Mikel Arteta, rested players. We're totally okay with that. They're not going to win the league. That. That ship is already sailed. They're going to finish in Champions League place. They want to obviously finish second, of course, but that's. That's slightly below progressing in the Champions League. Right. And so he has to. He has to chop and change his squad and rest his players and totally okay with that. But I'm curious, so with David Beckham, and this is a serious question, he was the best ever in terms of set pieces. Would he. Would he train them every day after training or. No. Like, how often in a week of training would he just put the ball?

[Tim Howard]

Like a few days, but. A few days, Tim. To see it in a game is great, but when you just sit there and watch rep after rep after rep, hits the same spot every time, you're just like, this is wild, dude. It's like watching Steph Curry shoot threes and warmups.

[Landon Donovan]

Yeah.

[Tim Howard]

You're like, what the hell, dude? This is insane.

[Landon Donovan]

So he would just be out there, and would you set the mannequins up?

[Tim Howard]

Yeah. Yeah.

[Landon Donovan]

And every time.

[Tim Howard]

Yeah. I mean, not every.

[Landon Donovan]

No, I know.

[Tim Howard]

Way more than anybody else ever. That's, like, by a long shot.

[Landon Donovan]

That's amazing. Incredible. Did you. Would you be like, maybe I'll, like, join him? Or are you just, like, nine?

[Tim Howard]

Why would I join him? You're gonna go shoot threes while Steph's just knocking down everyone, like, just look like an idiot. Just clank, clank, clank.

[Landon Donovan]

That's amazing.

[Tim Howard]

Join him. I just sit and watch.

[Landon Donovan]

I love it. That's incredible, bro. That's incredible.

[Tim Howard]

All right, Timmy, it is time for the unfiltered refresh, sponsored by our friends at Coors Light. Choose chill. Get Coors Light delivered. Go to Coors Light.com USLNT all right, so if you are a Liverpool fan. Yes, you are refreshed because Mo Salah finally has agreed to a two year extension. And remember Tim, there was a long time here where it was in the media he was talking about it, he was saying I'm, I'm more out than I am in for next year and this was a whole ordeal. So congrats to Liverpool fans. The wrong side of Liverpool unfortunately for us. But Mo Salah has been an absolute legend in the city for Liverpool and refreshing to everyone involved. Cheers to you guys that he will now be there for two more years. And it sounds like Virgil Van Dijk is close on his heels with a new deal too.

[Landon Donovan]

Yeah, credit to Liverpool Football Club because what I would say is they've done their business in a way that we don't often see in today's game. Right. So the Jurgen Klopp information about him leaving got leaked. Right. So they had to then figure out a way to get themselves through the rest of those whatever six months it was and they did it in a classy way then this year the big talking point was Trent Alexander Arnold, Virgil Van Dyke and Mo Salah. Those contracts are up three biggest players at the football club and how do you deal with that? And they've not only chased down a Premier League title but they've done it with this kind of hanging over their head and naturally you're thinking, oh this is going to, this is going to be a problem. They've kept it quiet other than for, you know, one or two comments by Mo Salah which I'm okay with at the end, at the end of the day he's a big player. I think you should always kind of keep things under wrap. But he came out once or twice and said something but ultimately they've done the business in a great way. And by the way, I always find social media to be interesting. It was so cheeky. I don't know if you saw the, their, their social media rollout because he obviously said I'm more a, more out than in. Well they had him on this throne and the caption was more in than out. It was clever. So yeah, look, hats off to them for getting that across the line. And then if they can do Van Dyke it looks like that's great. And even if they, even if they sell Trent Alexander Arnold.

[Tim Howard]

Fine, they're fine, fine.

[Landon Donovan]

But you do it in the right way and everyone's happy.

[Tim Howard]

And by the way, and Virgil Van Dijk spoke to this too, they're going to bring in some players. I mean he's alluding to the fact that they're going to bring in Players in the summer too. And so their transition has been. It's what people should study going forward. When a legendary manager leaves because they win the title, they're doing well, they keep players and they're going to go spend money. I mean Arnes hasn't even had time now to really properly build his squad like a proper transfer window. So this will be. Yeah, I mean very.

[Landon Donovan]

It's Klopp's team, isn't it?

[Tim Howard]

Yeah. Right.

[Landon Donovan]

Yeah. So, yeah, interesting.

[Tim Howard]

So very refreshing for all Liverpool fans. Should be a long and good and fruitful many years to come. Moving to a little further North Newcastle United. Boy Wallop. Manchester United. Tim, this is, you know, we have place like we talk about this stuff and where we want to go with it. And I was just thinking to myself, literally as I'm saying it right now, what a sad place we've gotten to where I expect, I look at a 41 scoreline that United's on the other end of and I'm like, yeah, that's about right. Like can you imagine them ever losing 4:1 and people would like be going crazy.

[Landon Donovan]

Yeah, yeah.

[Tim Howard]

And you're just like, ho hum, another loss.

[Landon Donovan]

It's. Yeah, look, we just talked about, about slot inheriting Jurgen Klopp's really good team and what that looks like Ruben Amaran inherited. Like it's so hard, I think when, when. When I say the things that I said and other pundits have said this as well. When you say it, it sounds so blasphemous and so like that sounds dumb. Get out of here. But this Manchester United team, in order to compete, and we know how tight the Champions League spots are this year and how many good teams are going for. In order for Manchester United to begin to compete in the top four and dare I even say go for a Premier League title. This squad needs eight.

[Tim Howard]

I was going to say ten. Yeah.

[Landon Donovan]

At least eight Premier starting players right now. Again, that sounds idiotic because when did we look at a Liverpool, a man City, a Manchester United or Chelsea and say well, Chelsea's done it in a different way with all young players, but say this team needs eight starting players to compete and probably more. Eight's being polite like we've never said that before. So like this whole concept of like Ruben Amaram like he's had to his conundrum has been come in, try and get results. Now everybody would say that's the priority. I think he's looked at it and I could be proven wrong over the next couple years. I think he's looked at it and gone. I can't. Even if I try and grind out results with this team, it pales into in comparison to me setting out my stall and playing in the way I want to play because ultimately I'll get the players in that I want and that's more important. And by the way, his team is letting him down because they keep losing and they aren't very good.

[Tim Howard]

Yeah. I always tell people winning is contagious.

[Landon Donovan]

Yeah.

[Tim Howard]

Losing is also contagious. And they just walk onto the field right now and they expect to lose. They do. I mean there's zero fight left in that. And everyone's resigned themselves to the fact that the season's gone. It's just sad, man. But congrats to Newcastle doing the business. They have a midweek game now against Palace. So these are. This is where all the interest is going to be. Villa, Forest, Newcastle, maybe just Fulham get on a little late run in that. Chases for Champions League spots are going to be really fun to watch. Speaking of teams that are disaster, spurs lose 42 at Wolves.

[Landon Donovan]

That's crazy.

[Tim Howard]

The only way to say this, Tim, is. I mean is this. I know we've said it a million times, but is. It feels like ang. Even with his comments, the manager, it just feels like he's done after this year. It just feels like, I don't know you. You might have a better feel on it.

[Landon Donovan]

Yeah.

[Tim Howard]

I. I sway talks. It's like, you know, he said I. I was watching this weekend, he said a report, he said to a reporter. He's like, you know, whether I win a trophy or not doesn't matter. I'm out in the summer as you guys have said. And you know, that's. That's the sentiment that I'm like, geez.

[Landon Donovan]

Well he's. He's been cheeky and that's fine. I think you can. You're a manager, you're the. You're. You're kind of the figurehead of the football club. You can deal with the media however you want.

[Tim Howard]

Right.

[Landon Donovan]

Whether we agree with it or not, I think. I think ultimately he's. You know what. What I've said on record is look, I think he's out in the summer postecoglou, I think. You know, do they win a European trophy? Maybe. Does that save him? Maybe. We saw it with Erik Ten Hag last year. He was probably out in Sergeant Radcliffe and his. His crew did a. Decided that the FA cup, you know, Manchester United beating City in the FA cup saved his job. But ultimately Your team is your team and he's the manager. And that didn't work out. He got sacked. Right. And so I don't. I think if they win a trophy, I think that gets taken into consideration when Daniel Levy and the board do kind of an overview of the season. But I don't know if that saves him in the end. I really, truly don't. So it's gotten a bit nasty. When you look, when you look at the spurs fans and I, I have a few good friends who are first season ticket holders, you just. The feel and the vibe, there's a big clash there. So I don't know, I don't know if it works because ultimately, I mean, here's the other thing, and we talk about squads, you know, United, Man United not having it. Liverpool having a really good squad. Tottenham squad's really good, by the way. I'm not saying it's a complete piece.

[Tim Howard]

Yeah, they, they are better than.

[Landon Donovan]

They've got really good players. And this is, this is not it.

[Tim Howard]

So I think, well, they've been hurt. There have been a lot of injuries, sure. But yeah, absolutely everyone has injuries.

[Landon Donovan]

Yeah.

[Tim Howard]

Who would have guessed him that 32 games into the season, Everton would be above United and Spurs in the table?

[Landon Donovan]

Yeah, it's crazy.

[Tim Howard]

That is incredible. Incredible. All right, let's take a break. We will talk US Men's national team on the other side. Right here on Unfiltered Soccer with Landon and Tim, presented by Volkswagen. Volkswagen. Stick around.

[Landon Donovan]

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

[Tim Howard]

U.S. soccer 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.

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As a longtime friend of Volkswagen, I've seen firsthand how VW 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 [e-mail] LD we've been talking lately about wanting to see more players on the field with that dog in them. The. The hungry ones. Strong, tough. You oftentimes think of them like a chip on their shoulder. Those are the kind of players want to see Even the ones that get heated back in the dress room at halftime or full time.

[Tim Howard]

Yeah. For us, it was hard not to have that feeling right when we. When the whistle blew and you went out on the field, the adrenaline's pumping. And we've told lots of stories about guys getting after each other in the locker room on the field, saying your performance isn't good enough, we need better, et cetera. But once you get home, you get in the car, head back to your place of rest. You have to choose a chill mindset.

[Landon Donovan]

Yeah. When you embrace a chill mindset, it's a good time to choose chill and crack open a Coors Light.

[Tim Howard]

Yeah. Coming down from the rush of the game is tough. Said the adrenaline is pumping. It's hard. I know for me, it's the best chance to get home, have something to eat, play video games, maybe read a book. And choose chill and crack open a Coors Light.

[Landon Donovan]

There it is. Make the most of the times you choose to chill. Choose Coors Light. Get Coors Light delivered straight to your door. Visit coors light.com forward/uslnt.

[Tim Howard]

Always celebrate responsibly. Coors Brewing Company, Golden Colorado Beer.

[Landon Donovan]

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[Tim Howard]

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[Landon Donovan]

I participate in McDonald's for a limited time, a Minecraft movie only in theaters. Okay. Exciting day. US LNT on usmnt. The Gold cup draw was last Thursday. Like, like anything as fans, you just get. You get excited for the games, but when the games aren't there, you get excited for the draw. Yeah. Big draw. Big exciting news. Group A, Mexico, Costa Rica, Suriname, Dominican Republic. I think that's the most difficult group.

[Tim Howard]

Yeah. Suriname is actually a good team. Like a sneaky good team.

[Landon Donovan]

Yeah. Group B, Canada, Honduras, El Salvador, Carousel. Also, I think a decently difficult group, Group C is Panama, Jamaica, Guatemala, Guadalupe, Group D, US Haiti, Trinidad Tobago, and Saudi Arabia.

[Tim Howard]

The only question I got from all of my friends is, how the hell is Saudi Arabia in the Gold Cup?

[Landon Donovan]

Right?

[Tim Howard]

I said, why do you think they're in the Gold cup, buddy?

[Landon Donovan]

So cynical.

[Tim Howard]

Oh, they have a lot of money. So I said, yeah, that's how they get.

[Landon Donovan]

And there's always. There's always an invite, right?

[Tim Howard]

So there's always an invite. So you go make as much money as you can from, like, it was Qatar last time.

[Landon Donovan]

Yeah.

[Tim Howard]

So whatever. Saudi Arabia is a decent team, by the way. Like, that is not a Walkover. Trinidad, not great. Haiti are a sneaky good team. So my. My eyes went to this first and I. Shame on me because I didn't do all the due diligence. But my guess is that the group D winner would play the group C runner up. And so this is aligned just the way CONCACAF wants it and just the way hopefully US Fans want it. But my eyes jumped ahead, Tim. I couldn't help it. To a potential US Panama or US Jamaica in the next round. That is under what is now, unfortunately, an assumption that we can at this time not make, that we get out of the group. So do I think we should get out of this group? Absolutely. But Haiti is a sneaky good team. Saudi Arabia is a sneaky good team. And the way the two performances we last saw from the ACOS group. Yeah, they could absolutely not win those two games. So I think we will. I think there will be a response, but certainly adds more intrigue to this Gold Cup.

[Landon Donovan]

Yeah. Yeah. Look, I. My initial thoughts when I saw the. The draw for the US Is I don't care. And for our fans of this show and all US Fans, we're going to do everything we can to. To preview the Gold cup, to give you insight and do all of the interviews. We're going to. We're going to do it right for you. I don't care about this draw because I am not judging this US Team based on this first round. Do me a favor. I'm judging this team on the semifinal and final. If they get there, that's it. They've given me no reason to get excited about Haiti or Saudi Arabia or Trinidad and Tobago. It's just not. It's not. It's 20, 26 is going to be here before we know it. And that competition is scary. It's frightening. The games that I want to judge this US Team on are the tough ones, not the layups, the tough ones because they have not proven yet that they could band together and give an effort, a sustained effort consistently over. Over the course of five, six games. I think that's fair. I'm sure the players will tell me that's unfair. That's fair. So all of our best players together, fighting together, fighting for the manager, the manager fighting for them and winning the Gold cup, that's when. That's when I'll be. I'll be really interested.

[Tim Howard]

Well, I want. I'm asking this US Group, as a fan, give us something to get excited about ahead of next summer. Right? So, like, give us a real performance in the Gold cup, get us excited, and we're going to spend a lot of time breaking all this down as we get into the Gold Cup. You guys tell us, by the way, what players do you want to hear from? Who do you want us to interview, talk to? Maybe Pochettino. Who. Who do you want to hear from? And we'll do our best to get them on the show so we can talk to them ahead of this. Yeah, let's agree that they need to give us something to get excited about as we head into next summer, because the last few games were really demoralizing. And so let's hopefully get to the end of June, Tim, beginning of July, and say, all right, now we feel good about this team, and now we can be excited going into 26.

[Landon Donovan]

So let me. Yeah, let me also correct you. The crossover games for Group D. We just got this in our chat. The crossover games for group D are with Group A. Oh, boy. Oh, oh, boy. So, boy, the winner of. Of the US Group will play the runner up in group in group A, which again, you're basically Costa Rica, Mexico. Crossover. Why.

[Tim Howard]

Why would they do that?

[Landon Donovan]

That's a great question.

[Tim Howard]

Because it's like maybe like as they, as they play it out down the road, then US Mexico don't play in the final because people don't know. Concacaf, usa, US Soccer, Mexican Federation, everybody wants US Mexico in the final. It's the most money, it's the highest prestige, everything that's. I mean, I've seen it, Tim, in lots of tournaments where one slip up and you go, oh, no, now it's US Mexico in the quarterfinals.

[Landon Donovan]

Well, here, here's, here's, here's the problem, right, for now, that I said, I don't care. I'm backtracking. Yeah, you got me hooked. Because now you have to. You have to avoid. I don't care what anybody says. We've been in there. You have to avoid Mexico. Right. So you're assuming for a second, Mexico is going to finish first. Costa Rica. Costa Rica is going to finish second. Second. I know. We're, we're. We're projecting out here. That means, by the way, there are no. Okay, let me rest all my players.

[Tim Howard]

Yeah, that's true.

[Landon Donovan]

Because normally in a goal cup. Let me look at, let me look at it again. Normally in the Gold cup, you're like.

[Tim Howard]

All right, Haiti, third game or first game.

[Landon Donovan]

Right, right, right. You take a draw in there, you're now saying, no, no, no, we've got to win out. And so there aren't going to Be. In my opinion, if all this stands and we're assuming Mexico finishes first in. In group A, there are no give me games. Unless of course, you batter, you know, the first two games, you get six points and you batter them on goals and you're like plus 10 in goals or something like that, right? Then maybe you can rest. But. But still the job has to get done. Really interesting, that crossover.

[Tim Howard]

Well, also to your point earlier that there are only so many games, right? We've said this so many times. So do you even really want to rest, guys? I mean, I want them playing six games together as a group.

[Landon Donovan]

I hear you.

[Tim Howard]

In a. In a tournament, that matters.

[Landon Donovan]

I know.

[Tim Howard]

So, yeah. All right. We're gonna have plenty of that. We got long lead up like next few months into the Gold Cup. Let's go to some notable US MNT performances over the weekend. Christian was awesome. In 4 nothing dismantling of Udinese, he had another assist. He's now got 10 assists in Syria, the most by any player in the league, period. Incredible. He's also, thanks to our stat people, leads all players and chances created 59 key passes. So he is the heartbeat of that team. Offensively, he's not always on the score sheet, he often has been, but he, you know, everything goes through him and he's. He's just had an awesome season. And I've said this before, Tim, it's why with the national team, I feel bad for him, because he cares, he's invested in it. And when he has to be a part of some of those performances, I'm sure it's devastating. But he's had a phenomenal year and I hope it continues out through May from a long.

[Landon Donovan]

I mean, hats off to him. Congratulations, Christian. 10, 10 assists in any league is huge. But to lead Serie A, it's a big, big deal. Obviously, that's one that as a, as a US player and then, then fans of the team and of him, they get really excited about and kind of can puff their chest out. But again, the chances created, that's not surprising because the way that he plays one, he has vision, right? But. But in order to have, in order to execute you, you have to have the ability to get yourself in key positions to make the pass. And I think that's where when you look at his profile, his ability to kind of like skate past defender, dip his shoulder, unbalance the defender, and then get to get the pass away. Okay, he's incredibly impressive. So, yeah, having a fantastic season long may that continue.

[Tim Howard]

Also in Italy, some disturbing news. Weston McKinney played. They won their game. I believe they won 2:1. But a really disturbing article came out. He is one of 13 players being investigated for illegal online betting in Italy. Now, I want to clarify. They were not betting on, I don't think they were betting on sport. I think they were playing online poker or something. They were doing something. But it is prohibited. It is illegal. No, he will not be going to jail. Um, he'll get fined, I don't think. I don't think they'll, they'll suspend the players, but it's just one of those things where it's like, what are you doing?

[Landon Donovan]

What are you doing? Yeah, I mean, I think that, I think contextually, I think Tonali and the other Italian player, which I'm blanking on his name, that was at Juventus. They, they were involved in, like, illegal betting, like, online sites, and I think they were getting, you know, they were getting weighed in and backhanders to, like, bring other players onto the site kind of thing. So it's an illegal betting. Yeah, I think it was poker. And obviously Weston got himself involved.

[Tim Howard]

So you just don't need, you just don't need that in your life. So hopefully it's, hopefully it's in the past and move on, but in Scotland, ccv, Cameron Carter Vickers had a phenomenal goal. The goal is great, Tim. I'll be honest, I don't really care when the defender scores. It's like an Instagram thing. It's amazing, you know, like, that's great, whatever. Just keep the ball out of the net. Right. Like, and I'm not, by the way, I'm not hammering Cameron Carter. I'm just saying in general, like, oh, great goal. It was a great goal. And I'm, and I'm happy for him.

[Landon Donovan]

Yes.

[Tim Howard]

But I want him to show up next camp with the national team, play games and help us get four shutouts out of six games. Right. Like, that's where I, that's where I want. So. But congrats to him.

[Landon Donovan]

Amazing strike.

[Tim Howard]

That was a great goal.

[Landon Donovan]

As a defender who scored a goal myself, I, I, I do think it's fantastic. Um, it's brilliant. The scenes, the scenes as well are brilliant. After the strike.

[Tim Howard]

So Google Tim's goal. By the way, I was on the field that day.

[Landon Donovan]

Yeah. You celebrated with me, so you didn't have much of a problem doing that. But I appreciate it.

[Tim Howard]

It was great.

[Landon Donovan]

Awesome.

[Tim Howard]

A little concerning news in Holland. In Netherlands, Sergino Des missed both this week and last week's game. And we, we've been digging Tim, trying to figure out what's going on. I don't know what's going on there. He came back after his ACL and has been playing a little bit, so a little concerning. Just. We're just going to keep an eye on this. I hope it's nothing. I hope they're just smartly bringing him back into the fold. But that's not good news. Usually you want minutes starting to increase now and let's hope that it's nothing serious.

[Landon Donovan]

Yeah, agreed.

[Tim Howard]

Also there a goal from Malik Tillman. He keeps scoring, man, and keeps playing well and so it's huge. He's going to be an interesting to follow. Interesting one to follow in the Gold cup. Assuming he's there because not talked about a lot, kind of off people's radar, but he's playing, playing lots of minutes and playing well.

[Landon Donovan]

Yeah, look, I think again, from the goal scoring side of things, having, having Christian Pulisic playing really well, scoring goals, assisting Timothy Way on the other side, that's really good. But ultimately what we're concerned about and what we often talk about is we still need a striker who is going to put the ball in the back of neck consistently. Right. In a tournament like this or Nations League or whatever else, we, a US striker has to be in the hunt for the golden boot. Right. Like they have to be the top one or two goal scorers in that given tournament. Like that's a must and we don't quite have that yet. So, yeah, look, if Malik Tman can be the guy who helps with that. Absolutely.

[Tim Howard]

All right, Last thing. Elsewhere in Europe, if you didn't see, if you're living under a soccer rock, Kylian Mbappe was shown a red card. It was so. Tim, this was so bizarre. Again, I wasn't watching it live, but I get the clip and I'm like, mbappe did that. If you, you know, just go Google it and YouTube it. It's bizarre. It's such a violent challenge. Yeah, it's such a violent challenge. And it was, I mean, unequivocally a red card. You cannot any, in any league, any time in history. It's a red card. It was just bizarre. What I. What do you think he was thinking? He just lost his mind for a minute.

[Landon Donovan]

Listen, the, the, the backroom staff, the assistant coach for Real Madrid came out and said, Killian isn't a violent lad for sure. I don't know if he is. I don't think he is. Doesn't seem like that tackle was Naughty. I mean, wow. Wow. The force that he went in, by the way, that's an ankle breaker. And yeah, I mean, it's, it's wicked. It's a wicked challenge. And yeah, I mean, I, I, I don't think you have to be a, a bad lad, as this guy said, or a violent lad to stick one on somebody. But by God, what, I mean, what a naughty tackle. Incredible.

[Tim Howard]

I'm just, yeah, we all have moments, Tim, where you just like a rush of blood to the head and you do something you normally otherwise wouldn't do. But, man, I just, it was bizarre. It was bizarre. Let's hope, let's hope that doesn't happen again. And like, will it impact the title race now? Right, and it'd be interesting. All right, let's take another break. When we come back, we'll get into your questions. Junior told me before the episode that she has some heat for me. Usually they come after you.

[Landon Donovan]

They come after me. I'm enjoy this.

[Tim Howard]

And just so people know, during the AT&T fan connection, we do not hear the questions beforehand. So we want to get them live. And we're going to talk about all that right here on Unfiltered Soccer with Landon and Tim, presented by Volkswagen. Stay right there.

[Landon Donovan]

There's a lot in life that feels like it should be guaranteed that just isn't your team winning the championship. The weather being good on game day, your friends remembering who has the tickets. Some days you're just a goal scoring machine.

[Tim Howard]

Yeah. And some days the ball just passes you by. Right here on Unfiltered Soccer, we know that no matter how much you love the beautiful game, nothing on the field is guaranteed. Thankfully, AT&T is introducing a brand new guarantee, the AT&T guarantee.

[Landon Donovan]

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[Tim Howard]

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[Landon Donovan]

Learn more at att.comforward/guarantee Terms and conditions apply.

[Tim Howard]

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[Landon Donovan]

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[Tim Howard]

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[Landon Donovan]

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[Tim Howard]

Ryan Reynolds here from Mint Mobile. I don't know if you knew this, but anyone can get the same Premium Wireless for $15 a month plan that.

[Landon Donovan]

I've been enjoying going. It's not just for celebrities. So do like I did and have.

[Tim Howard]

One of your assistant's assistants switch you.

[Landon Donovan]

To Mint Mobile today. I'm told it's super easy to [e-mail].

[C]

Switch upfront payment of $45 for three month plan equivalent to $15 per month required intro rate first three months only, then full price plan options available, taxes and fees extra.

[Landon Donovan]

See full [e-mail] okay, it's everyone's favorite time of the week. Certainly Jordan's favorite time of the week at and T fan connection. I. I hear Jordan, I hear you have some heat for Landon, but before we get to that, how are you?

[C]

I'm wonderful. Thanks so much for asking.

[Landon Donovan]

No soccer jersey today.

[Tim Howard]

Oh, yeah, I just noticed that.

[C]

Well, you know what? Last week you forgot to ask me, so today I didn't even.

[Landon Donovan]

Oh, are you feeling bad? Okay, my bad. Today feels like casual. Casual Mondays. Is that what it's all black?

[C]

Everything Monday going on?

[Landon Donovan]

Yeah, Love it.

[C]

It's my goth look. All right.

[Landon Donovan]

Okay.

[C]

I'll give you something nice just to.

[Tim Howard]

Warm you up a little bit before the naughty.

[C]

So this one's from Adam via email. He says, as a lifelong fan of D.C. united, I appreciate you shining light on the horrible ownership. As fans, we have little impact on affecting ownership changes aside from boycotts and not buying merch. So for your program to put DC United on blast on how awful and pathetic these owners are, maybe the only way to get the ball rolling, to get them to sell, he said.

[Tim Howard]

Adam, yes. Yeah. I mean, he said he's a lifelong fan, right? And so he's seen what this club can be. And that's what's hard. If this is who you were for 30 years in MLS, you're just kind of like is what it is. I mean, I hate to say it's him because you played for him, but, like, the Rapids have a little bit of that. It's like, you know, not going to go crazy and spend and just be. But they've seen the glory days. Adam's seen the glory days. He knows what this can be. And so, like, we're not here to effectuate change. We just. We say it like we see it. It's. It's not good, man. And I. I don't like it because I love that club and I. And I love when they're a good part of the league.

[C]

Okay, Landon, here we go. This one.

[Tim Howard]

Okay.

[C]

This one's from Bethany via email.

[Tim Howard]

Okay, Bethany.

[C]

Landon, you hit a nerve. So I clearly needed to send y'all a quick note regarding Michelle Kang's investment. I'm bothered that in the same breath, you praise her support and all that it will do for the women's game and then add, hey, can we get this on the men's side? Haven't you had it from the jump? U.S. women's national team have been the standard bearer for U.S. soccer for decades, despite lack of resources and support from its federation to the point that they had to sue just to get equitable treatment. You want an investor? Go get one.

[Tim Howard]

All right, so let me break this down. Bethany. So you said it yourself. You said, haven't they had that support from U.S. soccer, the men? Yes, they have. From U.S. soccer. What they haven't had, to my knowledge, and I've been in it my whole adult life, is a Michelle Kang who came in and said, and Tim. And Tim said this perfectly last week. Here's the money. But guess what comes with the money? My ideas, my decisions. I'm going to tell you how to invest it, what to do. U.S. soccer has given the men's team plenty of resources and has not adequately, in my mind, provided the women the same resources. And I've publicly changed my mind on my whole view of that. What the men's side needs is somebody who's willing to come in and say, this is not working, especially from a youth development perspective, and this is how we're going to change it. And here, if you don't want to change it, fine. But that 55 million is. Isn't. It's not coming in. So I understand why it hit a nerve. But you're. You're. You're conflating two completely different things. U.S. soccer needed to and finally did support the women in the right way, but we need an investor, in my opinion, on the men's side. And by the way, there's lots of wealthy people in the world who donate lots of money to lots of things. There has to be wealthy US Billionaires, millionaires, whatever, who are willing and would like to invest that kind of money as well and. And be a pioneer the way Michelle Kang is. So we. We agree on some things, but I think you're conflating two different things there. Fair.

[Landon Donovan]

Well said. A little heat. Don't mind it. Hold on, Bethany. Challenge ld. That's what I'm talking about.

[Tim Howard]

You can Challenge. Keep me honest. It's fine.

[C]

Okay, here is a question for both of you from Twitter or X, depending on who. Not Twitter Jordan is.

[Tim Howard]

Okay.

[Landon Donovan]

It's whatever we want it to be.

[C]

Last week you told me it's not X.

[Landon Donovan]

He did say that.

[Tim Howard]

No, I said it's not. Oh, I'm sorry. I'm flip flopping. Bethany got, Bethany struck a chord.

[Landon Donovan]

Bethany got you.

[Tim Howard]

I'm still, I'm still like, okay, all right, fine. It is called what you want. It is called Twitter.

[Landon Donovan]

Whatever. Whatever you want to do. It's how the world works.

[C]

Okay? So on whatever platform that is, George asked, can you ask the guys why in the world CONCACAF still exercises the away goal rule in the Champions Cup? If UEFA got rid of it, why can't we?

[Landon Donovan]

I, I mean, it's a good question. I, I tend to like the away goal rule. Maybe that's just because I'm, I'm used to it. I guess so. I, I, I don't know. I don't know. I get, I get it, George. I get what you're asking. Sometimes, sometimes trying to figure out why CONCACAF makes certain decisions is going to take a lot of brain power that will ultimately be fruitless. So I don't know. I don't know the answer to it. It's a great question. I don't know the answer to it.

[Tim Howard]

For all the things we want CONCACAF to change and do. And now I'm to the point where I'm like, don't ever change. Like, just do concacaf. Do concacaf. Because it's fun, dude. I'm just, now that I'm not in it, when I was in it, I was like, this is a disaster.

[Landon Donovan]

Yeah, yeah.

[Tim Howard]

Now I'm like, let's go, dude. Like, let's just madness. Let the chaos ensue.

[C]

Okay. This is a great question and I'm very excited to read it. This question came to us via email from Joey, who would like you to know that he is seven years old.

[Landon Donovan]

Hi, Joe.

[C]

Joe, Landon and Tim, what is your favorite memory from your playing days?

[Tim Howard]

Great question.

[Landon Donovan]

I was hoping Joey had like, Heat Force. Imagine like a seven year old brushing heat. Favorite memory from playing days. Go ahead, Landon.

[Tim Howard]

I mean, Joey. There are so many. So I'm assuming, hopefully Joey's a soccer player. If you play enough years, you're gonna have tons of amazing memories. Like tons and tons. I was just reminiscing. This is one. Not on the field, but after the 2010 Algeria win in the locker room after the game. Because first of all, FIFA, when in A FIFA locker room. There's so much security, and it's so hard for people to get into the locker room or be around because of all the obvious reasons, security, et cetera. I think at one point, I walk in and, like, Reggie Bush is in there, who's a former Heisman Trophy winner. Bill Clinton's in there. All of the U.S. soccer people. There's just random people sit, and within minutes, it's just a party. Everyone's just drinking beers, shotgunning beers, partying. It's. It was like. It was the most bizarre scene, Tim. It was so bizarre. Yeah, but that's one of the. I just popped in my head right now, but there's just so many moments where it's. You almost think, like, this can't be real. And especially the way, like, our lives started. You're like, this is a joke.

[Landon Donovan]

Totally.

[Tim Howard]

Right? So that was an amazing moment.

[Landon Donovan]

What a. Yeah. And to add on to that experience, obviously, I was in the locker room, and, you know, you're so emotionally high after scoring the late goal. The way in which we did the crazy celebrations. And yet, by the way, give Reggie Bush back as Heisman, if you haven't already. Bill Clinton's in there. I think Carlos Bukanega was captain, so Carlos is captain. He's got his shirt off. Guys are, like, completely exhausted. We're already, like, two beers deep. Which means if you ever played a game and drank a beer afterwards, you, like, already buzzed. It's just because you have nothing in your system. And he puts his arm around or on the arm of Bill Clinton and says. Just basically gives a speech and says, we'd be honored if you'd have a beer with us. So Bill takes off his blazer. I'm calling him Bill. He's my guy. Takes off his blazer, hands it to his Secret Service, right? Rolls up his sleeve and, like, cracks a beer. And I'm thinking, as Landon said, like, there's no way. There's no way. But. But my. My. I think my. My favorite moment, Joey, is I think of you as a young. I'm guessing young soccer player. Seven years old. My first cap was in Birmingham, Alabama, at Legion Field. Legendary Legion Field. I don't know if us has played there before or since. And I think I'm 22 years old. My mom flies into town. She's nervous as hell. Jesus. I mean, she making me nervous. And, you know, the national anthem plays, and you pull that shirt on and you sing the national anthem, thinking, like, this is everything I ever hoped for. Yes, I Wanted to go to Europe and play. Yes, I wanted to do all those things. But Landon will tell you, and any soccer player will tell you the one singular moment that they think about before they go to sleep on most nights is playing for your country. And that was my moment. I remember it, like, clear as day.

[Tim Howard]

Since we have one of our producers on the show, Jordan, make sure you cut out that first part with all the drinking and beers and buzz for Joey. He's gonna be like, mommy, what if.

[C]

Joey, when you get to be 20, drink responsibly.

[Tim Howard]

But good question.

[C]

Joey, that was great. Thanks, guys.

[Tim Howard]

Junior, thank you. Okay, anything but soccer. Let's go. I'm so pumped.

[Landon Donovan]

I know. I know you're pumped for this. I know you're pumped for this. What do you got?

[Tim Howard]

So, the Masters golf. Yeah, I just heard, like half of our audience turn off.

[Landon Donovan]

Yeah, that's fine. There are still. Absolutely not.

[Tim Howard]

All right, so golf. So yesterday, Tim. And you know, if people follow golf or whatever or don't, but it's an amazing sport and it's really, really hard. Okay, it's really hard. And so we're hanging out, like at the pool all day yesterday, watching the Masters on and off. We get to Dodger Stadium and we're down. There's a part of Dodger Stadium called the Dugout Club where you can, you know, have food and drinks and all that before the game. And we're in there, and the Dodger game's about to start. But Rory McElroy is on the 18th fairway in. In his normal round, and all he has to do is make par to win the Masters. He's up by one stroke.

[Landon Donovan]

Yeah.

[Tim Howard]

He hits his second shot from 120 yards. And just for context, 120 yards for a pro. On average, they're about 15 to 20ft to the pin when they hit their shot, you know, which is then if he makes two putts from 15ft, he's the champion. He hits his shot into the bunker, hits his bunker, shot out to about five feet. And for people who don't know Rory McElroy's history, he missed two putts at the US Open a few years ago from about five feet. So if you think about mentally what's going on through, it's like if I missed a penalty in a World cup, and then the next World Cup, I got a penalty. Oh, my God. So he's in his head. He misses the five foot putt, makes bogey, and now he goes to a playoff. Okay, so. And then I'm Going to take you back a few hours. He was two shots up to start the day and double bogey the first hole. So he had this up and down roller coaster where he probably thought he was going to win the tournament four times and probably thought he was going to lose it three times.

[Landon Donovan]

Yeah.

[Tim Howard]

Anyway, they go to a playoff on the 18th hole, he makes birdie. Like, stuffs a ball to like two feet on his second shot and makes birdie. And the cool thing about this, I don't know if you saw any of the highlights to me, but right when the puck goes in, he loses it.

[Landon Donovan]

Yeah.

[Tim Howard]

I have, like, crazy chills right now. And he breaks down and he's bawling his eyes out. I mean, bawling. And the reason why is because those putts he missed at the US Open, the putt he missed in regulation, all of that weighs on you. And I have an important, like, analogy. All of that weighs on you. And then the emotion just flew out of him.

[Landon Donovan]

Yeah.

[Tim Howard]

And I love that because one, I love. I love golf, but I love sports. And there is nothing, I always say to people, there is nothing that will take you on emotional roller coaster in real time the way. The way sports do.

[Landon Donovan]

Yeah.

[Tim Howard]

There's nothing in life that compares to that.

[Landon Donovan]

Yeah.

[Tim Howard]

And after our Algeria game that we were just referencing, I broke down, like, sure, sure. In an interview. I broke down afterwards because I had gone through a really hard time after 06, having a really bad World cup and then a lot of things in my personal life. And this was a culmination of an important moment coming to fruition. And so I could feel it in him. And if you haven't seen, just go watch his last putt. And the emotion that comes out for guys who are generally very stoic and golf and all this, it was really cool to watch.

[Landon Donovan]

Yeah, I love listening to you talk about it. Look, I am not a golf fan. Mostly. Well, I don't enjoy the game. Mostly I've been turned off by golf because my friends, including you, they just lie. They lie about the shots they make and the round they have. They just drink beers and have a good time. That's what my friends do.

[Tim Howard]

You're stupid, dude.

[Landon Donovan]

But I love sports and I love the competition of sports. Sports. And so when there's a major on, On a Sunday, I'll usually. I'll usually watch it. And I. I think with golf. And you talked about the mental side, I think, like, to win any golf tournament, but to win a major, they start Thursday, right?

[Tim Howard]

Yeah.

[Landon Donovan]

Is that correct? So, yeah, you have four. Like, being good for 18 holes is really hard. Like, being good four days in a row, so true. 18 holes, like, yes, there's going to be ups and downs. He didn't play amazing on certain points, but, like, you have to be pretty perfect for four days. Like, that's. That, to me is hard. Right. Like, that to me is like NBA Finals, I think, is hard, but you get. You get some rest and you can kind of go back. That's like being mentally locked in. There's no time. Like, there's no time. There's not a day off. And so, you know, again, I think for me, as well as you, that's the breakdown at the end was joyous for me. Right. Because I think it's been well documented yet. It's been the misses on the putts, but it's also been his personal life. He's kind of been dragged through it. And when you're an athlete, what you're asked to do is because, yeah, you get paid a lot of money and you're in a spotlight and all that, you're basically asked to throw everything else aside, which would basically break any other human being. Right. You have to cast that aside and then go out and be perfect. And by the way, be careful, because on the other side of that is ridicule and all the pain that comes with failure. So, yeah, I know it's the arena we put ourselves in. Absolutely. But, man, he was awesome, and it was exciting to watch.

[Tim Howard]

Really well said, man. It was fun. It was an awesome week. And congrats to him. He now has a career Grand Slam, so he's won all four majors. It was really cool to watch.

[Landon Donovan]

Question for you. Yeah, question for you. How many of your MLS Cups would you trade for a green jacket? It's a fair question. It's a fair question.

[Tim Howard]

Well, I'll say this. Not all of them, but not zero.

[Landon Donovan]

That's amazing.

[Tim Howard]

I would definitely give away a few to have a green jacket.

[Landon Donovan]

I really thought your answer would be all of the lot. Just, no, I'm not going to take all of them.

[Tim Howard]

But, like, 05, like, you know, we weren't great. We kind of snuck in there and, you know, we didn't even deserve to win in the final and.

[Landon Donovan]

All right. You just chuck that one away. Yeah, I could.

[Tim Howard]

Chuck.

[Landon Donovan]

Have you ever. Have you ever been to Augusta?

[Tim Howard]

I have, actually. I was just going to say, if you have. Have you been.

[Landon Donovan]

I haven't been.

[Tim Howard]

Do you. I know you don't like golf, but being there first of all, just the way it's manicured.

[Landon Donovan]

Yeah.

[Tim Howard]

Just the landscape is insane.

[Landon Donovan]

It's amazing.

[Tim Howard]

It's like a fairy tale.

[Landon Donovan]

I know. I'm boycotting my buddy. My buddy was like, do you want to come down? I was like, nah, it's not really. I'm not going. Not just because I'm a golf fan. Not a golf fan, but there's other things that play. But it's beautiful.

[Tim Howard]

It's just cool. And it's cool, by the way. You know, like, a lot of people aren't baseball fans, but being out on a Sunday at, like, Wrigley Field or at Dodger Stadium or whatever, like, it's really cool, and it's really special. So I think it's. It's worth it. Just go and even. It's just one day. Just go and enjoy it. It's beautiful. It's sacred. Like, you can feel it, and it's. It's really fun.

[Landon Donovan]

Great.

[Tim Howard]

All right. Thank you, guys. Another great week. Timmy, please don't get me up this early again. Worked into it, but I was tired this morning, dude. It's probably more of my shenanigans on the weekend. That's. That. That's what's called. Thanks for everything, guys. Always appreciate the feedback. We love your comments, your questions, and thanks for supporting us. It means a lot to us. As Always, subscribe on YouTube and Apple Podcasts, Spotify, wherever you get your PODC podcast. Follow the show across all of our social media for all the bonus content we send out all week, and that is at Unfiltered Soccer.

[Landon Donovan]

And from me, thanks, everybody. I love chat and soccer and certainly with my boy ld. Thank you for all your comments and concerns and questions and supporting us. Thank you to our presenting sponsor, VW, our Fan Connection sponsor AT&T, and our unfiltered refresh sponsor, Coors Light. Have a great week. Go enjoy some spring weather. We'll be back with you next Tuesday with another edition of Unfiltered Soccer.