Minnesota United FC has seen a shift in its coaching staff as interim head coach Sean McAuley departs to explore new opportunities. The club has appointed Cameron Knowles, previously the head coach of MNUFC2, as the new interim head coach for the first team.

Knowles, a New Zealander, has been with Minnesota United’s MLS NEXT Pro team since 2022. Before taking the helm of MNUFC2, he served as a video analyst for the Loons’ first team in 2021. His coaching career includes an extensive stint with the Portland Timbers, where he started in 2012. During his nine-year tenure with the Timbers, Knowles spent six years as an assistant coach, contributing to their MLS Cup victory in 2015. He also led the Portland Timbers 2 team in the USL Championship for three years.

Minnesota United expressed gratitude to Sean McAuley for his significant contributions both on the field and in the community over his five-year tenure with the club. McAuley’s departure is seen as a part of the natural evolution in the coaching landscape, with the club extending its best wishes for his future endeavors.

As the team navigates through this transition, the search for a permanent head coach is ongoing. Knowles’ experience within the club and his prior coaching roles will be invaluable as he steps into the interim role, aiming to bring stability and continuity to the team.

Minnesota United, currently adapting to these changes, remains focused on maintaining competitive performance and progressing in the league under Knowles’ guidance. The appointment signals the club’s trust in Knowles’ abilities and understanding of the team’s dynamics, offering a potentially seamless transition during this interim period.

Orlando City SC has made a decisive move to secure the future of one of their key players, Iván Angulo. The club announced on Wednesday that the Colombian winger has been signed through the 2025 MLS season, with an option to extend for an additional year.

Angulo, 24, originally joined Orlando City on loan from Brazilian Serie A club Palmeiras. During his tenure with the Lions, he has made a significant impact, tallying five goals and eleven assists across 43 appearances. His contribution was particularly notable in the team’s 2022 US Open Cup victory, where his skills and attacking prowess played a crucial role.

Luiz Muzzi, Orlando City’s Executive Vice President of Soccer Operations and General Manager, praised Angulo’s influence on the team. “Iván has been so impactful for us these last few years, not only with his creativity in the attacking phase of play but also with his defensive pressure from the wing,” Muzzi said. He highlighted how Angulo has seamlessly integrated into the team and become a vital part of their success.

Orlando City’s decision to sign Angulo on a long-term basis aligns with their broader strategy of building a strong, cohesive team for future seasons. This is evident in their recent activities, which include re-signing former loanee Wilder Cartegena and parting ways with midfielder Mauricio Pereyra, who has moved to Nacional in Uruguay. Additionally, the team has transferred center back Antônio Carlos to Copa Libertadores champions Fluminense and reportedly signed Seattle Sounders legend Nicolás Lodeiro to fill the No. 10 role.

The club is coming off a historic 2023 season, achieving a club-record 63 points and finishing with the second-best record (18W-7L-9D) in MLS. This outstanding performance has secured them a spot in next year’s Concacaf Champions Cup. Fans eagerly anticipate the team’s next campaign, which kicks off on February 24th against CF Montréal.

Orlando City SC’s commitment to strengthening its roster and retaining key players like Angulo demonstrates its ambition to continue being a formidable force in MLS. The club’s actions in the transfer market suggest a clear vision for the future, aiming to build on recent successes and achieve greater heights in the coming seasons.

FOXBOROUGH, MA — The New England Revolution have officially re-signed midfielder/winger Emmanuel Boateng for the 2024 MLS season, with an option extending into 2025. This announcement comes as a significant move for the club, as it prepares for the upcoming competitive season.

Emmanuel “Ema” Boateng, 29, will continue his tenure with the Revolution, despite his contract option being declined at the end of the 2023 season. Last year, Boateng made a notable contribution to the team with two goals and three assists in 27 appearances, 16 of which were starts. His journey with the Revolution has been highlighted by being part of the 2021 Supporters’ Shield-winning team. Boateng’s MLS career also includes previous stints with LA Galaxy, D.C. United, and Columbus Crew, showcasing his extensive experience in the league.

Curt Onalfo, the Revolution’s sporting director, emphasized Boateng’s value in a recent statement. “Ema Boateng has been an important contributor to our attack and has been a productive player in our league throughout his entire career,” Onalfo said. “We are pleased to have Ema return to the club and look forward to seeing him on the field with the rest of the team as we get preseason training underway this month.”

Boateng’s return is particularly significant under the guidance of incoming manager Caleb Porter, who previously coached Boateng at Columbus during the 2020 season. His veteran presence and offensive versatility are expected to be key assets for the Revolution’s strategy.

In addition to retaining Boateng, the Revolution have been active in the offseason, completing the permanent transfer of Tomás Chancalay and acquiring fullback Nick Lima through a trade. These moves indicate a clear intent to bolster the squad’s strength and depth.

The Revolution are poised to make their first official appearance of the 2024 season in the Concacaf Champions Cup. They will face Club Atlético Independiente of Panama on February 21 in the away leg of their two-legged series. Following this, their MLS regular season kicks off on February 24 with an away game against D.C. United, scheduled for 7:30 pm ET and available on MLS Season Pass.

These developments signal an exciting and promising season ahead for the New England Revolution, as they aim to build on their previous successes and navigate the challenges of both domestic and international competitions.

DENVER, CO — The Colorado Rapids have made significant changes to their roster by waiving center back Danny Wilson and winger Sam Nicholson, as confirmed by the club on Tuesday.

Danny Wilson, 32, departs after a six-season tenure with the Rapids, a journey that began following his transfer from the renowned Scottish club Rangers FC. During his time in Colorado, Wilson made a notable impact, recording five goals and seven assists across 136 regular-season appearances. His role as a center back was pivotal in the team’s defensive strategies over the years.

Sam Nicholson, 28, leaves the Rapids after rejoining them in 2022, having previously spent time with English club Bristol Rovers FC. Nicholson’s MLS career includes two stints, initially starting with Minnesota United FC in 2017-18 before returning to Colorado. Over his time in the league, he amassed eight goals and ten assists in 105 regular-season appearances, contributing significantly to the team’s attacking play.

Rapids president Pádraig Smith expressed gratitude for both players in a recent release. “We’d like to thank Danny and Sam for their contributions on and off the field during their time at the club,” Smith said. “We wish them both all the best in their future endeavors.”

These roster moves come at a critical time for the Rapids as they gear up for the upcoming season under new head coach Chris Armas. The team is looking to rebound from a challenging 2023 season, where they finished last in the Western Conference with just 27 points, marked by a record of 5 wins, 17 losses, and 12 draws.

The Rapids are set to begin their 2024 campaign with a match against the Portland Timbers on February 24. This game, scheduled for 10:30 pm ET and available on MLS Season Pass, marks the start of a new era for the club under Armas’ leadership. Fans and analysts alike will be keen to see how the team adapts to these roster changes and the new managerial approach in their quest for improved performance in the Western Conference.

CHICAGO, IL – The Chicago Cubs have officially announced their major league coaching staff for the 2024 season, led by manager Craig Counsell. The staff includes a mix of new faces and experienced coaches, aiming to bring a fresh dynamic to the team’s strategy and performance.

Ryan Flaherty, stepping in as the bench coach, joins the Cubs following a four-year tenure with the San Diego Padres. In 2023, he served as their bench coach and offensive coordinator. His journey with the Padres began in 2020 as a major league advance scout and development coach, later advancing to quality control coach in 2022. As a former infielder, Flaherty’s roots with the Cubs trace back to being their first-round pick (41st overall) in the 2008 First-Year Player Draft, and he boasts eight seasons of major league experience.

Willie Harris continues as the third base coach for his fourth season with the Cubs, marking his ninth year in coaching or managerial roles. Harris, who played 12 seasons in the major leagues with various teams, will also oversee the team’s outfielders.

Tommy Hottovy, the pitching coach, enters his sixth season in this role. He has been part of the Cubs’ major league pitching infrastructure for a decade, starting as an advance scout focused on run prevention. Hottovy, a former left-handed pitcher, made his major league debut with Boston in 2011.

Dustin Kelly, the hitting coach, is in his second year in this role after serving as the organization’s minor league hitting coordinator. Kelly, a former infielder drafted by Boston in 2004, has a background as a hitting coach in the Dodgers’ farm system.

Mike Napoli, entering his fifth season with the Cubs’ coaching staff, continues as the first base coach. Napoli, a veteran of 12 major league seasons with various teams, will also focus on team baserunning.

Darren Holmes joins the Cubs as the bullpen coach. His experience includes three years as Baltimore’s assistant pitching coach and a stint as the bullpen coach with Colorado. Holmes brings the perspective of a seasoned player, with 13 major league seasons under his belt.

Mark Strittmatter, the new major league field coordinator, comes from an 11-year tenure with the Rockies as a catching coordinator. His role will involve team scheduling and working with catchers. Strittmatter previously served as a major league coach for the Pirates and as the Rockies’ bullpen catcher.

Daniel Moskos, assistant pitching coach, enters his third season with the Cubs. A former first-round pick by the Pirates, Moskos made 31 relief appearances in 2011.

John Mallee takes on the role of assistant hitting coach. Mallee, with a rich 27-year coaching history in professional baseball, previously served as the Cubs’ major league hitting coach and had similar roles with the Phillies and the Angels.

Juan Cabreja continues as assistant hitting coach for his second year. With 21 years in the Cubs organization, Cabreja has held various coaching and managerial positions in their system.

Jim Adduci, assistant hitting coach for game planning, enters his second season in this role. Adduci, a former outfielder, has been part of the Cubs’ system and played in the major leagues with Texas and Detroit.

Jonathan Mota, a major league coach, is in his second season in this capacity. Mota, a former infielder in the Cubs’ minor league system, will focus on infielders and infield defense.

Alex Smith, major league coach for data development and process, enters his second year in this role. Smith joined the Cubs in 2015 and has a background in data and development, stemming from his time at Cornell University.

Garrett Lloyd, the bullpen catcher, is in his third season after serving as a development coach for Chicago in 2021. Lloyd has coaching experience in the Dodgers’ farm system and as a minor league video associate.

The Cubs’ coaching staff for 2024 reflects a strategic blend of experience and fresh perspectives, aiming to enhance the team’s performance in the upcoming season. With a mix of former players and seasoned coaches, the Cubs are positioned to leverage their expertise for on-field success.

Washington, D.C. – D.C. United has officially confirmed the permanent acquisition of Brazilian attacking midfielder Gabriel Pirani from Santos FC. The announcement, made on Monday, ensures Pirani’s continued presence at the club through the 2025 Major League Soccer (MLS) season, with options extending to 2026 and 2027.

Pirani, who fills a U22 Initiative roster slot, initially joined D.C. United on loan in the latter half of the 2023 season. During his loan period, he made a notable impact, starting in all ten games he played and scoring one goal. His performance evidently impressed the club’s management enough to opt for a full transfer.

Ally Mackay, D.C. United’s General Manager and Chief Soccer Officer, expressed excitement over Pirani’s permanent signing. “Gabriel showed impressive playmaking abilities during his loan period with us,” Mackay stated in a press release. “He is a highly technical midfielder with the skill to break down defenses through his vision and passing. We’re enthusiastic about his potential growth in the league and eagerly await his return for the preseason.”

The 21-year-old Brazil youth international brings a wealth of experience from his home country, boasting over 100 professional matches. Pirani, a product of the Santos youth system, made his senior debut in February 2021 and has since had loan spells at Fluminense and Cuiabá.

Pirani’s signing is part of a broader offseason overhaul for D.C. United. The club has also welcomed fullback Aaron Herrera in a trade from CF Montréal and winger Jared Stroud from St. Louis CITY SC. These strategic acquisitions signal D.C. United’s intent to bolster their squad ahead of the upcoming season.

However, the team still has critical decisions ahead, notably the appointment of a new head coach and the filling of an open Designated Player spot. These moves are crucial as the team prepares for their 2024 season opener against the New England Revolution on February 24.

With Pirani’s acquisition and other strategic signings, D.C. United appears to be gearing up for a competitive season, aiming to make a significant impact in the MLS. The team’s fans and management alike will be eager to see the fruits of these offseason efforts as they embark on their 2024 campaign.

NASHVILLE, TN – Nashville Soccer Club has made a significant move in the MLS transfer market by acquiring U.S. international winger Tyler Boyd from the LA Galaxy. The announcement was made on Saturday, detailing a deal that sees LA Galaxy receiving substantial assets in return.

The Trade Details

In exchange for Tyler Boyd, the LA Galaxy will receive two international roster spots (one each for 2024 and 2025) and $150,000 in General Allocation Money, split evenly over the next two seasons. Additionally, the Galaxy could receive up to $625,000 in conditional General Allocation Money if Boyd meets specific performance metrics.

Catch him outside 🏃‍♂️💨

We’ve acquired attacking winger Tyler Boyd from the LA Galaxy ⬇️

— Nashville SC (@NashvilleSC) December 30, 2023

Tyler Boyd’s Contract and Career

Boyd, 29, is now under contract with Nashville SC through the 2026 season, with an option for 2027. The winger is entering his second MLS season, having posted seven goals and four assists in 34 games (28 starts) for LA last year. Boyd’s club career has been well-traveled, with stops at notable clubs such as Beşiktaş in Turkey, Vitória de Guimarães in Portugal, and Wellington Phoenix in New Zealand.

Internationally, Boyd initially represented New Zealand before filing a one-time switch of association to play for the U.S. Men’s National Team. He has since scored twice in 10 appearances for the USMNT, with his last cap coming in a 2019 Concacaf Nations League match.

Nashville’s and LA’s Perspectives

Mike Jacobs, Nashville’s general manager, expressed his enthusiasm for Boyd’s addition, praising his attacking prowess and ability to create and finish scoring chances. Jacobs believes Boyd is a great fit for Nashville both on and off the field.

Conversely, LA general manager Will Kuntz emphasized the importance of roster flexibility and improvement, stating that the deal with Nashville meets these objectives. Kuntz also extended his best wishes to Boyd and his family as they embark on this new chapter.

Impact on Nashville’s and LA’s Rosters

Boyd joins a Nashville attack led by Hany Mukhtar and Sam Surridge, two of their three Designated Players. His addition is expected to bolster Nashville’s offensive capabilities and provide additional options on the wings.

On the other hand, LA Galaxy, with two open Designated Player slots, are retooling their attack around Riqui Puig following the departures of Chicharito and Douglas Costa. The acquisition of international roster spots and allocation money offers LA Galaxy more flexibility for future signings.

Upcoming Matchup

The trade sets up an intriguing early-season matchup, as Nashville SC is scheduled to host LA Galaxy on March 10 in a cross-conference clash. This game, set for 4 pm ET on the MLS Season Pass, will see Boyd potentially face his former team, adding an extra layer of excitement to the encounter.

LOS ANGELES, CA – In a major coup for Major League Soccer, Los Angeles Football Club (LAFC) has announced the signing of World Cup-winning goalkeeper and Premier League veteran Hugo Lloris from Tottenham Hotspur.

Hugo Lloris Is Black & Gold.

📝 #LAFC signs goalkeeper Hugo Lloris on a permanent transfer from @SpursOfficial to a guaranteed contract through 2024 with options for 2025 and 2026.

— LAFC (@LAFC) December 30, 2023

Lloris’ Stellar Career and Move to MLS

Hugo Lloris, the 37-year-old French international, joins LAFC on a contract that runs through the 2024 MLS season, with options for 2025 and 2026. Lloris, France’s all-time leader in caps with 145 games, captained the French team to victory in the 2018 World Cup and played a pivotal role in their journey to the final in the 2022 World Cup in Qatar.

Lloris has had a distinguished career with Tottenham, appearing in 447 games over nearly a dozen seasons since joining from Ligue 1 side Lyon in 2012. During his tenure with Spurs, he was instrumental in the team’s success, including reaching the 2019 UEFA Champions League final. However, under new manager Ange Postecoglou, Lloris recently lost his first-choice position, paving the way for his move to LAFC.

We’re in good hands 🧤

Hugo Lloris | #LAFC pic.twitter.com/yyvgwMYb19

— LAFC (@LAFC) December 30, 2023

LAFC’s Ambitious Vision

John Thorrington, LAFC’s co-president and general manager, expressed his excitement about Lloris’ arrival, citing his unparalleled success and leadership at the highest levels of football. Thorrington believes that Lloris’ experience will significantly benefit the club in their pursuit of more trophies.

The signing of Lloris is seen as a continuation of LAFC’s strategy to bring in high-profile European talent, following the likes of Gareth Bale and Giorgio Chiellini. Both players had impactful stints with LAFC, with Bale contributing to the MLS Cup-Supporters’ Shield double in 2022 and Chiellini playing a key role in the team’s run to the MLS Cup in 2023.

Goalkeeping Dynamics at LAFC

With Lloris on board, LAFC now has a formidable presence between the posts. The team also has goalkeeper Abraham Romero under contract for the 2024 season. The futures of Canadian international Maxime Crépeau and John McCarthy, who shared starting duties last year, remain uncertain as both are free agents.

Anticipation for Lloris’ Debut

Fans are eagerly anticipating Lloris’ debut for LAFC, which could potentially happen in the 2024 season opener against Seattle Sounders FC at BMO Stadium on February 24. Lloris’ arrival in Los Angeles marks a new chapter in his illustrious career and a significant addition to the MLS landscape.

In a heartfelt message, Tottenham Hotspur bid farewell to Lloris, thanking him for his immense contributions to the club. As LAFC welcomes Lloris, his wife Marine, and their three children to Los Angeles, the club looks forward to the leadership and experience he brings to their quest for continued success in MLS.

Merci, Hugo 🧤 pic.twitter.com/Gl1sLQzlzO

— Tottenham Hotspur (@SpursOfficial) December 30, 2023

In a significant development for Major League Soccer’s (MLS) Western Conference, the Vancouver Whitecaps FC announced on Friday that they have secured the services of former Real Salt Lake (RSL) captain, Damir Kreilach. This acquisition comes after Kreilach formally departed RSL earlier in the week following the failure to reach a new contract agreement.

Kreilach, an attacking midfielder who can also play as a second forward, has committed to Vancouver through the 2025 MLS campaign. The Croatian native brings a wealth of experience and leadership to his new club, attributes that have made him a respected figure in MLS.

Sporting Director Axel Schuster expressed his enthusiasm about the signing, stating, “We are very pleased to welcome Damir and his family to our club and city. Everybody in MLS knows what Damir brings to the table. He is an experienced player, a competitor, and a leader.”

Kreilach is now blue & white! 🔵⚪️

‘Caps are pleased to announce that experienced midfielder and @MLS free agent, Damir Kreilach, has signed to a two-year contract through 2025 ✍️

Welcome to the club, Dami! #VWFC | #FIFTYTGTHR

— Vancouver Whitecaps FC (@WhitecapsFC) December 29, 2023

Kreilach’s impressive career statistics underscore his value to any team. With 47 goals and 24 assists in 151 career regular-season matches, he has consistently proven himself as a versatile and dynamic player on the pitch. The 32-year-old originally joined RSL in 2018 from the German side Union Berlin and served as the club’s captain from 2022 to 2023.

Joining Vancouver’s attacking lineup, which already features talents like Ryan Gauld and Brian White, Kreilach’s arrival is expected to bolster an already formidable offense. In the 2023 season, the Whitecaps scored 55 goals, ranking in the top third of the league and securing the West’s No. 6 seed. Their playoff journey, however, was cut short in Round One by a defeat to LAFC in the Audi 2023 MLS Cup Playoffs.

“I’m very happy and excited to take on this new challenge and be a part of Vancouver Whitecaps FC,” Kreilach said, expressing his eagerness to start this new chapter. “There is a lot of work ahead, and I couldn’t be more grateful for the opportunity. I’m looking forward to meeting my new teammates, coaches, staff, and all the supporters. I can’t wait to get started!”

Vancouver Whitecaps FC, fresh off back-to-back Canadian Championship victories, is gearing up for an action-packed 2024 season. They kick off their campaign on February 7 with a Concacaf Champions Cup two-leg series against Liga MX powerhouse Tigres UANL. Following this, they begin their MLS season on March 2 against Charlotte FC in what promises to be an exciting season for the club and their fans.

Kreilach’s arrival has sparked anticipation among Whitecaps fans and raised expectations for a strong showing in the upcoming season, as the club aims for success on both domestic and international fronts.

Kansas City, MO – Sporting Kansas City (SKC) announced a significant roster change today, as attacking midfielder Gadi Kinda departs the club to join Israeli Premier League side Maccabi Haifa FC. This move officially opens a Designated Player (DP) spot for the MLS Western Conference club, signaling a new chapter in their team composition.

Thank you for everything, Gadi!#OneSportingWay pic.twitter.com/2oB5ILvCzj

— Sporting Kansas City (@SportingKC) December 29, 2023

Kinda, whose contract with SKC recently ended, was extended a bona fide offer as part of the club’s year-end roster update. He was previously listed among the team’s DPs alongside striker Alan Pulido and midfielder Erik Thommy in the past season.

During his tenure with Sporting KC, Kinda made a lasting impact. In 64 regular-season games, he tallied an impressive 14 goals and 16 assists. This record is particularly noteworthy considering Kinda missed the entire 2022 MLS campaign due to a long-term knee injury. His journey with SKC began with a loan from Beitar Jerusalem, eventually leading to a permanent transfer to the team managed by Peter Vermes.

Kinda, 29, an Israeli international, had a standout performance in the Audi 2023 MLS Cup Playoffs. He was instrumental in SKC’s 4-1 road victory over top-seeded St. Louis CITY SC in the Round One Best-of-3 series. Kinda contributed one goal and two assists in this upset win, showcasing his vital role in the team’s success.

As SKC prepares for the post-Kinda era, the team’s roster is taking shape with the upcoming 2024 season in mind. Their first match is scheduled for February 24 against Houston Dynamo FC, marking the beginning of what promises to be an exciting and transformative season.

Sporting Kansas City’s management and fans will undoubtedly be watching closely to see how the team adapts to this change and who will fill the newly opened DP spot. The departure of a player of Kinda’s caliber leaves big shoes to fill, but it also presents an opportunity for new talent to rise and make their mark on the team.

Salt Lake City, Utah – The era of Damir Kreilach at Real Salt Lake has come to an end, marking the conclusion of a significant chapter in the club’s history. Both Kreilach and Real Salt Lake officially announced the departure on Wednesday, drawing a close to the Croatian midfielder’s impactful tenure since joining the team in 2018.

Kreilach, who arrived at RSL from German club Union Berlin, leaves behind a remarkable legacy. In his six seasons with the team, he notched an impressive tally of 47 goals and 24 assists over 151 regular-season appearances. Despite his remarkable contributions, the club decided not to exercise his contract option following the 2023 campaign.

Kurt Schmid, the sporting director of Real Salt Lake, expressed the difficulty of parting ways with such a pivotal figure. “Saying goodbye to Damir Kreilach is a challenging moment for our club,” Schmid stated. “His impact, leadership, and service were almost unparalleled, and he embodied the spirit of a true professional and leader.”

The highlight of Kreilach’s career at RSL came in 2021 when he delivered an outstanding performance of 16 goals and 9 assists. This exceptional form earned him a spot in the MLS All-Star team and saw him forge a formidable attacking partnership with Albert Rusnák, now with Seattle Sounders FC. The following year, Kreilach was named club captain, a testament to his influence both on and off the field.

However, his tenure was not without challenges. A back injury significantly affected his playtime, limiting his contributions in his final season to 4 goals and 1 assist over 27 games, including 15 starts.

Reflecting on his departure, Kreilach shared his emotions in a heartfelt letter to the RSL fanbase. “Leaving RSL is the most difficult decision I’ve ever made,” he wrote. “The past six years have been incredible, filled with unforgettable moments and emotions.”

As Real Salt Lake turns the page to the post-Kreilach era, they face a new beginning, starting their 2024 MLS regular season against Inter Miami CF on February 21. The match, scheduled for 8 pm ET, will be available on MLS Season Pass, heralding a new chapter for the team and its fans.

Austin FC has announced the signing of free-agent goalkeeper Stefan Cleveland through the 2025 Major League Soccer (MLS) season, with an option for 2026. The 29-year-old joins the Texas-based club after a productive stint at Seattle Sounders FC, where he was the primary backup to Stefan Frei from 2020 to 2023.

Cleveland began his MLS journey with Chicago Fire FC, who drafted him in 2017. Throughout his career, he has made a significant impact, registering four shutouts in 29 games. This record, combined with his experience, positions him as a notable addition to Austin FC’s squad.

In a statement released by the club, Austin FC’s sporting director, Rodolfo Borrell, expressed his enthusiasm about Cleveland’s arrival. “We’re happy to add someone of Stefan’s caliber to the talented group of goalkeepers on our roster,” Borrell said. He emphasized that Cleveland would be a “very strong addition” to both the team and the Austin community.

Since their debut as an MLS expansion team in 2021, Austin FC has relied on Brad Stuver as their starting goalkeeper. The team also boasts the talents of Damian Las, who was crowned the 2023 MLS NEXT Pro Goalkeeper of the Year. With Cleveland’s addition, Austin FC strengthens an already formidable goalkeeping unit, signaling their ambition to improve on last season’s performance.

Austin FC’s campaign for the upcoming season kicks off on February 24, with a home game against Minnesota United FC. The match, scheduled for 8:30 pm ET, will be available on MLS Season Pass. In the previous season, Austin FC finished 12th in the Western Conference standings, tallying 39 points with a record of 10 wins, 15 losses, and 9 draws.

The acquisition of Stefan Cleveland marks a strategic move by Austin FC to bolster their defense and add depth to their squad. His proven track record in MLS and his experience in high-pressure situations will be invaluable as the Verde & Black aim to ascend the Western Conference rankings and make a strong impact in the upcoming MLS season.

Columbus, Ohio – The Columbus Crew, in a strategic move to strengthen their Major League Soccer (MLS) Cup-winning team, announced on Friday the signing of Colombian midfielder Marino Hinestroza. The 21-year-old talent has been acquired as a U22 Initiative player and will be filling an international roster slot for the Crew.

Hinestroza, who previously showcased his skills with Liga MX side Pachuca, joins the Crew on a contract extending through the 2026 MLS season, with an option for 2027. This acquisition marks a significant addition to the Crew’s already formidable roster.

Tim Bezbatchenko, Crew’s president and general manager, expressed excitement over Hinestroza’s arrival. “Marino performed at a high level for Pachuca this past year, and we are excited to help further advance this young player’s development within our club,” Bezbatchenko stated. He also emphasized Hinestroza’s versatility and potential to enhance the Crew’s attacking options, particularly noting his one-on-one threat.

During his stint with Pachuca, Hinestroza recorded 2 goals and 4 assists over 46 appearances in all competitions. His contributions were notable, especially coming off the bench in the last season’s Leagues Cup Round-of-32 against Houston Dynamo FC.

Hinestroza’s professional journey began in Colombia with Orsomarso SC in the 2018-19 season. He later joined CD América de Cali’s U-20 side, followed by a two-year loan with Palmeiras’ U-20 team in Brazil’s CBF Brasileiro U-20 league.

The Crew’s recent signings, including Hinestroza, midfielder/center back Derrick Jones, and Guatemalan international goalkeeper Nicholas Hagen, demonstrate the team’s commitment to maintaining a competitive edge. Under the guidance of Bezbatchenko and head coach Wilfried Nancy, Columbus is gearing up for a challenging 2024 season, with participation in multiple competitions, including the Concacaf Champions Cup.

The Crew will commence their MLS Cup title defense on February 24, hosting Atlanta United at 2 pm ET, available on the MLS Season Pass. The addition of Hinestroza is expected to add a new dimension to the Crew’s midfield, potentially giving them an edge as they aim to replicate their previous season’s success.