Once A Metro - All PostsAccept no substituteshttps://cdn.vox-cdn.com/community_logos/21683/metro-fave.jpg2023-01-19T08:15:00-05:00http://www.onceametro.com/rss/current/2023-01-19T08:15:00-05:002023-01-19T08:15:00-05:00Red Bulls not surprised as national team calls roll in
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<img alt="MLS: FC Cincinnati at New York Red Bulls" src="https://cdn.vox-cdn.com/thumbor/694cDwz08a8vpn-fSFqTUl3S6uw=/0x0:5872x3915/1310x873/cdn.vox-cdn.com/uploads/chorus_image/image/71882921/usa_today_19238098.0.jpg" />
<figcaption>Andres Reyes looks set to make his Colombia debut. | Vincent Carchietta-USA TODAY Sports</figcaption>
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<p>John Tolkin and Andrés Reyes were two of the New York players to earn international selections this week</p> <p id="bKw3uU">It’s January, so you know what to expect. Gray skies, crowded gyms, and MLS preseasons being mildly disrupted by international call-ups.</p>
<p id="sRMtqj">The <a href="https://www.onceametro.com">New York Red Bulls</a> have emerged as one of the bigger honorees/victims in the national team squad lists being released this week. After news earlier this week that injury-plagued youngster Wikelman Carmona <a href="https://www.laverdad.com/deportes/206119-vinotinto-debutara-ante-bolivia-en-el-sudamericano-sub-20.html">would be joining up with the Venezuela under-20s</a>, the Red Bulls saw more players recognized at senior level on Wednesday.</p>
<p id="Uzn21s">First was the widely-expected <a href="https://twitter.com/NewYorkRedBulls/status/1615757557955428358?s=20">naming of John Tolkin to the United States team</a> that will be temporarily managed by former <a href="https://www.burgundywave.com">Colorado Rapids</a> boss Anthony Hudson. The 20-year-old academy-bred left back is coming off a stellar 2022 season in which he played nearly every minute for Gerhard Struber and earned the rite of passage that is European transfer rumors — he was even name-dropped by Gregg Berhalter over the summer as a player with an outside chance of breaking in before the World Cup. Likely to compete with Real Sociedad reserve Jonathan Gomez for the left-sided fullback role, Tolkin is almost certain to get his first cap against Serbia or Colombia later this month.</p>
<p id="mpzco5">About that Colombia team? Andrés Reyes is <a href="https://twitter.com/FCFSeleccionCol/status/1615798968914673664">going to be in it</a>. The 23-year-old Red Bulls center back had somewhat of a setback in 2022 after missing the season’s first half with a broken foot, but his emergence as a dominant physical force in the New York backline since his arrival from Inter Miami in 2021 has earned him notice from national manager Néstor Lorenzo. Reyes joins several other MLS players in a Colombia team that is also largely an experimental side of fringe players, but his still-young age and <a href="https://colombia.as.com/futbol/colombianos-por-el-mundo/andres-reyes-con-mi-trabajo-tengo-fe-de-algun-dia-estar-en-seleccion-n/?utm_term=Autofeed&utm_medium=Social&ssm=CM_FT_TW&utm_source=Twitter#Echobox=1663954366">recent mentioning of an ambition to play in Europe</a> hints at a player who will be in the national picture for a long time.</p>
<p id="quooCc">As of Wednesday night, the Venezuelan senior team was yet to release its squad to face Guatemala on January 28th. But it will almost certainly include midfielder Cristian Cásseres Jr, who Gerhard Struber mentioned as a potential New York captain in his season-opening press conference on Tuesday. The most successful New York campaign could see the international net expanded to take in Scottish international Lewis Morgan, Jamaica veteran Cory Burke, recent Uganda debutant Steven Sserwadda, former Polish youth team standout Patryk Klimala, and Americans Sean Nealis, Kyle Duncan, and Frankie Amaya. When asked about the potential for the Red Bulls to face many international absences in a summer where a <a href="https://www.sbnation.com/concacaf-gold-cup">Gold Cup</a> is scheduled, Struber said he would not be <a href="https://www.nj.com/redbulls/2011/08/giase_red_bulls_coach_hans_backe_needs_to_stop_the_teams_slide.html">pulling a Hans Backe</a> and allow himself <a href="https://twitter.com/corkinho/status/1615428467733979155?s=46&t=vrLoRDZtSWfMtwePEr9GPw">to be “surprised” by any of these call-ups</a>, and that the potential absences had been calculated into the team’s concept.</p>
<p id="VFyQ8L">But it will be a crowded calendar, with the continental Leagues Cup tournament being added to 2023 schedule that could potentially involve over 50 games for a team hoping to make a deep Open Cup and/or playoff run. Struber expressed a hope in Tuesday’s press comments that his squad would prove its depth over the course of 2023, but the team still has some “gaps” to fill as the winter transfer season hits the halfway mark. The departure of Aaron Long (who was also named to the US squad) to <a href="https://www.angelsonparade.com">LAFC</a> leaves the Red Bulls with only two center backs with significant professional experience in Reyes and Nealis. While the rumors surrounding the potential splash for Belgian forward Dante Vanzeir <a href="https://www.nieuwsblad.be/cnt/dmf20230118_81024356">continue to swirl</a>, a potential move back to a two-striker formation would likely still require another body if such a move can’t be completed.</p>
https://www.onceametro.com/2023/1/19/23561883/new-york-red-bulls-not-surprised-as-national-team-calls-roll-inBen Cork2023-01-16T19:00:12-05:002023-01-16T19:00:12-05:00Red Bulls Paper Revue: January 16, 2023
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<figcaption>Fabio Gomes is on his way to Portugal. | Vincent Carchietta-USA TODAY Sports</figcaption>
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<p>Fabio Gomes heads to Portugal, Zlatko Junuzovic finally makes his way to New York, and Gonzalo Veron is still lawyered up in this week’s links</p> <p id="Pn4eWt">Welcome to the <a href="https://www.onceametro.com">New York Red Bulls</a> Paper Revue presented by <em>Once a Metro</em>.</p>
<p id="eZpVwI">Trite opinion, but I miss the days when actors refused to do American commercials, and I’m not talking about acting in Marvel movies! There needs to be a mystique involved with film that allows for immersion and suspension of disbelief. Could you imagine if John Candy was shilling M&Ms? I’m sure the commercial would be funny, but who wants that?</p>
<p id="weV7c5">What’s that? He did commercials for the Toronto Argonauts? <a href="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=QVFx7byfKag">They’re hilarious?</a> Oh, okay.</p>
<p id="clawOX">Here’s this week’s top story.</p>
<p id="ZLKsna">***</p>
<p id="r90lBZ"><strong>Wikelman Carmona </strong>may be getting a late start on preseason.</p>
<p id="t54Xut">The midfielder is <a href="http://www.laverdad.com/deportes/206119-vinotinto-debutara-ante-bolivia-en-el-sudamericano-sub-20.html">expected to be named to the Venezuela U-20 Men’s National Team</a> for the 2023 South American U-20 Championship, <a href="https://eldiario.com/2023/01/14/la-vinotinto-sub-20-peleara-por-un-cupo-al-mundial-en-el-suramericano/">which is set to kick off in the Colombian city of Cali</a>. The tournament runs from January 19th through February 12th. <em>La Vinotinto </em>(The Burgundy) are drawn into Group B with Ecuador, Uruguay, Chile, and Bolivia. The top three finishers advance to the six-team final stage in Bogotá, which extends for the final two weeks of the competition.</p>
<p id="hCCzV9">***</p>
<p id="yrzStx">No longer a transfer rumor, <strong>Zlatko Junuzović</strong> is now a coaching rumor!</p>
<p id="nDekeN">After being linked with New York across multiple transfer windows, the skillful <strong>RB Salzburg </strong>midfielder retired and moved into the technical area. He worked with the Austrian club’s U-16 academy side <a href="https://www.krone.at/2899997">and is now heading stateside</a>. The 35-year-old is embarking on a “several-month training program” and <a href="https://www.sn.at/sport/fussball/2-liga/fc-liefering-co-trainer-zlatko-junuzovic-geht-zur-fortbildung-nach-new-york-132360940">was supposed to arrive last year</a>, but his journey was delayed due to a “team rejuvenation program,” whatever that is.</p>
<p id="K53c6q">Hey, I suppose if things get too dire next season, the former Austrian international can always throw on the boots and start bossing the midfield.</p>
<p id="81gBgO">***</p>
<p id="QKVbQh">There’s a new muckety-muck in town. Well, it’s the same muckety-muck, but now he’s consulting.</p>
<p id="xcqa3Y"><strong>RB Leipzig </strong>announced that <strong>Florian Schultz</strong>, recently running commercial management and serving as chief media officer, <a href="https://rbleipzig.com/en/news/2022-2023/florian-scholz-to-leave-rb-leipzig/">is departing the club</a>. He began working at the German side in July of 2015, frequently linked with <strong>Oliver Mintzlaff </strong>and considered a part of the brain trust. He is set to “pursue an independent career as a consultant in the field of sports, marketing, and communications.” <a href="https://www.lvz.de/sport/regional/rb-leipzig-mit-naechstem-abgang-kommunikationsdirektor-florian-scholz-verlaesst-club-Y3V4JYA7SUDRSTCDE54KH7ROHQ.html">No less than <em>the</em> Guido Schäfer reports</a> that his new clients will include “[the] Red Bull CEO and the football clubs supported by the energy drink giant from New York, Brazil, and Leipzig.”</p>
<p id="vM6HUi">Consulting is the dream job, isn’t it? Show up, tell someone how to do their job, and go home. Anything that happens after isn’t your responsibility.</p>
<p id="C5xuQg">The only thing I’m qualified to consult on is Dairy Queen hamburgers. I think they’re great! Don’t change a thing!</p>
<p id="zBJ6ko">***</p>
<p id="SVeXTs">After being released by the Red Bulls, <strong>Jesús Castellano</strong> landed <a href="https://twitter.com/FCCincinnati2/status/1613233886808383491">at FC Cincinnati 2</a>. The Venezuelan youth international midfielder made 21 appearances in the USL Championship last season. <a href="https://www.fccincinnati.com/fccincinnati2/news/fc-cincinnati-2-sign-midfielder-jesus-castellano">According to his new club’s website</a>, “terms of the deal were not disclosed” because heaven forbid those high-security secrets ever get out there.</p>
<p id="EBB3df">It goes 1) nuclear codes, 2) the Coca-Cola formula, and 3) Jesús Castellano’s contract details. Just tell us the length and if there’s an option. I promise you, FC Cincinnati, nothing bad is going to happen.</p>
<p id="N6Z7A6">***</p>
<p id="MrIzij"><strong>Zach Ryan </strong>has landed a new club.</p>
<p id="0UzgHb">The former Red Bulls Homegrown spent one season at the club, making five MLS appearances and scoring in the Lamar Hunt <a href="http://www.sbnation.com/us-open-golf">U.S. Open</a> Cup. <a href="https://www.uslchampionship.com/news_article/show/1255248">Now he’s with Loudoun United FC</a> in the USL Championship. His new manager is excited to add the “very talented attacker, who is clinical in front of goal and creates numerous chances from his pressing.” The 24-year-old is expected to be a “key player” for the <a href="https://www.blackandredunited.com">D.C. United</a> reserve affiliate.</p>
<p id="hT873z">***</p>
<p id="RCwTtS"><strong>Giannis Nikopolidis</strong> is headed back to Hellas. The son of a Euro champion, former Greek youth international goalkeeper, Olympiacos academy member, Georgetown Hoya, 71st pick in the 2022 MLS SuperDraft, and NYRB II sometime-starter <a href="https://www.protothema.gr/sports/article/1328049/lamia-anakoinose-tin-apoktisi-tou-giou-tou-adoni-nikopolidi-gianni/">landed with PAS Lamia 1964 in the country’s top division</a>. He will wear number 71 for <em>Kyanólefki</em> (The Cyan-Whites), which are currently at 13th in the 14-team table.</p>
<p id="beGIGU">He seems flat-out stoked to be home. “I am happy that after some time abroad, I am returning to Greece and will play for the Lamia team,” said Nikopolidis<strong>.</strong> “I will do everything I can to help the team achieve its goals.”</p>
<p id="jaXbyD">Nikopolidis made 15 appearances last year in the USL Championship. <a href="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=T8bUMJaovKY">Do you remember</a> when he got a red card two minutes into the match against FC Tulsa? That was pretty funny.</p>
<p id="YlTBaD">***</p>
<p id="v4J9t3">As expected from legal sagas, <strong>Gonzalo Verón</strong> is dealing with some fallout from his multi-million-dollar lawsuit involving alleged nonpayment from Club Atlético Independiente.</p>
<p id="b45Dhu">He continues to play, currently with Club Deportivo Universidad San Martín de Porres in the Peruvian second tier. While the sport requires total focus, the former Designated Player is forced to keep an eye on the courtroom. <a href="https://www.clarin.com/deportes/gonzalo-veron-futbolista-millonario-juicio-independiente-club-arruino-carrera-_0_U0vcNNPetA.html">His interview with <em>Clarín</em></a> touched on all of the alleged fallout from the situation.</p>
<p id="WN3YsQ">“Because of the threats, I left the country,” said Verón. “I’ve been abroad for a couple of years now and I don’t allow myself to play in Argentina. Sometimes I want to go back for my family, for my mother, for my brothers, but the truth is that it scares me. I had threats on <em>Instagram</em>, they also send messages to my wife. One is claiming what belongs to him. My wife tries not to tell me what they put on her and she doesn’t tell me a lot and on Instagram they told me, ‘You’re a son of a bitch,’ ‘You’re coming,’ [and] ‘How are you going to do that to the club?’ And the truth is that the damage is done by the club itself. I understand people, but to avoid a bad situation I decided to leave the country.”</p>
<p id="HlUYMC">Even trips home can be a cause for stress. “Sometimes I go to the country for a few days and try to spend it with my family inside my house,” shared the 33-year-old. “I go out as little as possible. My wife tells me that I am persecuted, but it is very difficult to look to the side after all this. I was with a psychologist. I discussed all this with the psychologist to try to revive my career. But a call comes to you and each piece of news is to remove the hornet’s nest. I am appealing to the courts so that all this ends and I speak so that all the people of Independiente understand my position and what I am demanding. I am a victim of all this.”</p>
<p id="jGk7XY">Obviously, Verón hopes for this all to end in 2023. The plan is to continue working hard in order to “enjoy the last years of [his] career,” which he claims was “ruined” by Independiente. As for now, “patience is running out.”</p>
<p id="VbSWwU">***</p>
<p id="sBPWNe">Send out the appropriate color of smoke because <strong>Fábio Gomes</strong> has foundeth a new club.</p>
<p id="z0VJT9">The towering Brazilian striker <a href="https://www.otempo.com.br/sports/atletico/galo-acerta-detalhes-para-emprestar-fabio-gomes-para-clube-portugues-1.2797114">is headed to Portuguese side Paços de Ferreira</a>, which beat out Portimonense for his signature. <a href="https://www.itatiaia.com.br/editorias/esportes/2023/01/13/atletico-encaminha-emprestimo-de-fabio-gomes-a-clube-portugues">His deal is through the rest of the European season</a>, also known as “a few months.” The <em>Castores</em> (Beavers) are currently at 18th in the Primeira Liga with six points from 16 matches, collecting the first victory last weekend.</p>
<p id="XvbZ0y">Well, I think fortunes are already changing with Fábio<strong> </strong>on the way!</p>
<p id="4famVc">Here’s a joke that was submitted by Fern of Tenafly.</p>
<p id="OVzkjA">“<em>A Brazilian player moved to Portugal? Now I’ve seen everything!</em>”</p>
<p id="2TPVtY">Thank you, Fern. They do that a lot.</p>
<p id="9iFQr5">***</p>
<p id="k6m1LF"><em><strong>Do you have a story you’d like to submit to the Paper Revue? Email us at bencorkOAM@gmail.com or send a DM to @Once_A_Metro on Twitter.</strong></em></p>
https://www.onceametro.com/2023/1/16/23558046/red-bulls-paper-revue-january-16-2023Ross Haley2023-01-15T13:55:57-05:002023-01-15T13:55:57-05:00Peter Stroud’s long winding journey brings him back to the Red Bulls
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<img alt="MLS: U.S. Open-New England Revolution at New York Red Bulls" src="https://cdn.vox-cdn.com/thumbor/Voj97ULjTVjWPo_EAstiwu4m5Lo=/1x0:2121x1413/1310x873/cdn.vox-cdn.com/uploads/chorus_image/image/71868796/usa_today_12878727.0.jpg" />
<figcaption>Peter Stroud heads to the same Montclair stomping grounds where his older brother made his name. | Catalina Fragoso-USA TODAY Sports</figcaption>
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<p>Former academy midfielder signs after stints with West Ham United and Duke program </p> <p id="UqfnuV">The <a href="https://www.onceametro.com">New York Red Bulls</a> transfer wheel is increasing in RPM, with perhaps the most interesting development yet being the <a href="https://www.newyorkredbulls.com/news/new-york-red-bulls-sign-two-time-acc-midfielder-of-the-year-peter-stroud">long-expected signing of 20-year-old Duke University midfielder Peter Stroud to a Homegrown contract</a> as confirmed on Saturday.</p>
<p id="ky4YEq">While it’s expected he will initially carry the moniker of “Jared Stroud’s younger brother” in Red Bulls circles, the two-time ACC Midfielder of the Year has an even more extensive pedigree, and will look to make his own name for himself in the organization. Certified the “best midfielder in college soccer” <a href="https://twitter.com/Efried97/status/1603501282278326273?s=20&t=rOhcc6JuWzPJ9VytfTwxLQ">by OaM academy correspondent Eric Friedlander</a>, the Red Bulls Academy alum left the organization to join the storied youth system of English club <a href="https://bracethehammer.sbnation.com/">West Ham</a> United at only 16, spending two years there before taking a scholarship with the Blue Devils. He absolutely dominated from there, voted the Duke MVP his freshman year, going All-American twice, and finishing as a finalist for the MAC Hermann Trophy his junior year. Considering how things turned out for Sean Davis, the last Duke alum to sign a Red Bulls homegrown deal, it’s a promising resume.</p>
<p id="0t6oZl">It seems a Red Bulls return was always the path for Stroud, choosing to not declare for the merry-go-round that is the MLS SuperDraft after forgoing his final year of college eligibility. The two seem almost made for each other, with Stroud being a high energy, pressing central midfielder. <a href="https://www.dukechronicle.com/article/2023/01/duke-mens-soccer-peter-stroud-eligibility-mls-john-kerr">Local news cited</a> his “tireless engine, effective pressing and pinpoint passing accuracy” as standout traits, all of which will slot perfectly into the Red Bulls’ young midfield core. More offensively oriented than his brother was, Stroud’s five assists in his junior season will bode nicely for a side that was starved creatively for most of 2022. He will likely play a more reserved role at the pro level, but strengthens the central midfield rotation that found itself a little stretched at certain parts of last season. </p>
<p id="VKYpt5">Despite the depth chart being rather deep at central midfield, with Yearwood, Amaya, Casseres Jr., Edelman, Carmona, and Ssweradda all able to play, the tiring system and the MLS summer grind will provide plenty of minutes for the younger Stroud. In 2022, 5 midfielders reached 15 appearances, with Struber allowing for plenty of turnover and experimentation throughout the year. 2023 looks to be no different, and Stroud will certainly get a chance to break into the starting 11 at a club that is never shy to trust its young players. The <a href="https://www.onceametro.com/2023/1/9/23546064/new-hairstyle-new-club-catching-up-on-the-latest-john-tolkin-news-new-york-red-bulls">possibly departing</a> John Tolkin became a guaranteed starter with only a year’s worth of professional experience under his belt, and with an average squad age of 22.7 years, Stroud is practically middle aged. </p>
<p id="ZoOboK">College soccer is not seen as too far removed from rec leagues for many MLS fans, with promising NCAA stars like Daryl Dike, Tajon Buchanan, and Walker Zimmerman heavily doubted after turning pro. The step up in quality is undeniable, and for this reason supporters are rarely impressed with signings such as Stroud’s, but if there’s any time that they should make an exception, it’s now. Stroud has a very impressive resume, with his time at West Ham not to be overlooked, and is an extremely promising player that the Red Bulls will look to hold onto. Development is rarely linear, but this is a player that can be expected to make a solid impact at the first team level, and what else can you ask for?</p>
https://www.onceametro.com/2023/1/15/23556291/peter-strouds-long-winding-journey-brings-him-back-to-the-red-bullsGregory Martinez2023-01-10T10:12:53-05:002023-01-10T10:12:53-05:00Lateral play and Love Island: what to know about Red Bulls target Dante Vanzeir
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<img alt="Royal Antwerp FC v Royale Union Saint-Gilloise - Jupiler Pro League - Championship Round" src="https://cdn.vox-cdn.com/thumbor/lsh8nseuIudH0zJx_6KtAEWgiDg=/0x0:5250x3500/1310x873/cdn.vox-cdn.com/uploads/chorus_image/image/71848161/1394817698.0.jpg" />
<figcaption>Dante Vanzeir watch is officially on. | Photo by Jeroen Meuwsen/BSR Agency/Getty Images</figcaption>
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<p>Belgian forward targeted by Red Bulls is quite the character on and off the pitch</p> <p id="YYuxYq">The big rumor of the winter <a href="http://www.sbnation.com/transfer-rumors">transfer window</a> has hit airwaves and wifi routers.</p>
<p id="y5qRGb"><a href="https://twitter.com/tombogert/status/1612574711812354050?s=46&t=_sUM7Exv4j1tATWm6FzlvQ">As confirmed stateside by Tom Bogert</a> on Monday afternoon, the <a href="https://www.onceametro.com">New York Red Bulls</a> are pursuing Dante Vanzeir of Union Saint-Gilloise. The Belgium international forward (one cap) has scored 42 league goals across the domestic first and second divisions over the last three years, and may take some jingle-jangling to pry loose. At least, <a href="https://go.redirectingat.com?id=66960X1516590&xs=1&url=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.hln.be%2Fbelgisch-voetbal%2Finterview-vanzeir-laat-zich-vlak-voor-derby-niet-afleiden-door-interesse-new-york-red-bulls-flatteert-me-maar-ik-focus-op-union%7Eab737ca9%2F%3Futm_source%3Ddlvr.it%26utm_medium%3Dtwitter%26referrer%3Dhttps%253A%252F%252Ft.co%252FHjU1UHWXMk&referrer=sbnation.com&sref=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.onceametro.com%2F2023%2F1%2F10%2F23547468%2Flateral-play-and-love-island-what-to-know-about-dante-vanzeir-new-york-red-bulls" rel="sponsored nofollow noopener" target="_blank">that’s what was told to <em>Het Laatste Nieuws</em></a>.</p>
<p id="ufQpia">He is, of course, aware of the interest. “For the moment, I’m still at Union and that’s what I’m focusing on,” said the 24-year-old (<a href="https://www.footnews.be/news/352262/depart-au-new-york-red-bulls-vanzeir-repond">via <em>FootNews</em></a><em> </em>and <a href="https://www.walfoot.be/news/2023-01-06/cest-difficile-de-dire-maintenant-si-je-vais-rester%E2%80%94dante-vanzeir-reagit-a-linteret-des-new-york-red-bulls"><em>Walfoot</em></a>). “We’ll see in the future if this interest is concrete. My agent, my father and the people around me are taking care of it. If I feel flattered? Yes, of course. It’s fun because it rewards my performance. But I’m not going to dream about it either. Whether it’s America or Europe, it doesn’t really matter to me. The project has to be complete, otherwise I wouldn’t want to leave. But if something suits me 100%, I’m old enough to make a decision. It’s hard for me to say now if I’m staying at the Union. There are still 20 days left for something to happen.”</p>
<p id="PpUu7L">The manager, Karel Geraerts, appears to not give a turkey what happens with the striker. “I count on every player in my squad and he is very important to me,” <a href="https://www.voetbalkrant.com/nieuws/2023-01-07/karel-geraerts-houdt-transfer-van-dante-vanzeir-niet-tegen">shared the 41-year-old</a>. “But it’s not my job to convince him to stay or to tell him to leave. Each player has his own path, his own career. As a coach, I can only advise him. And the advice I give him is to be ready for Sunday, to focus on the derby. The rest is the work of his agents and entourage.”</p>
<p id="oMUwyY">Of course, Vanzeir is no stranger to headlines and the pressures of the media. He is said to have been in a relationship with <em>Love Island </em>contestant and former Miss Walloon Brabant, Raphaëlla Deuringer, who competed (?) during season two of the Belgian syndicated series. <a href="https://www.nieuwsblad.be/cnt/dmf20220727_95277651">According to <em>Nieuwsblad</em></a>, she “fell for the curly-haired Matthew,” who was then “snatched away” by Jaimy.</p>
<p id="8Il5y1">However, <a href="https://go.redirectingat.com?id=66960X1516590&xs=1&url=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.hln.be%2Ftv%2Fraphaella-keert-terug-in-love-island-en-bevestigt-zo-breuk-met-profvoetballer-dante-vanzeir%7Eadce4cdc%2F&referrer=sbnation.com&sref=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.onceametro.com%2F2023%2F1%2F10%2F23547468%2Flateral-play-and-love-island-what-to-know-about-dante-vanzeir-new-york-red-bulls" rel="sponsored nofollow noopener" target="_blank">her return during the third season of the show</a> indicated that her relationship with Vanzeir was, in fact, over. The footballer reportedly posted a clown emoji to the “stories” section of his personal <em>Instagram </em>account, <a href="https://nl.metrotime.be/entertainment/raphaella-uit-love-island-geeft-meer-details-over-breuk-met-dante-vanzeir-niet-op-de-beste-manier-uit">alleged to be a “telling reaction” to her television appearance</a>. In her own post, she wished him “the best in his career and [hopes] he can fulfill all his dreams,” noting that “sometimes two people just aren’t made for each other.”</p>
<p id="Y6jCfk">Well, uh… (clears throat) … maybe Vanzeir and the Red Bulls are… meant to be together.</p>
<p id="VEjkSy">New York’s squad shape appears to signal a good fit as well. After a season where the team struggled to turn breakouts and overloads in wide areas into goals, Vanzeir appears to hint at an adjusted approach.</p>
<figure class="e-image">
<img alt="1. FC Union Berlin v Royale Union Saint-Gilloise: Group D - UEFA Europa League" data-mask-text="false" src="https://cdn.vox-cdn.com/thumbor/FAalZ_clDl95VDS4LGnkxanlTY4=/400x0/filters:no_upscale()/cdn.vox-cdn.com/uploads/chorus_asset/file/24349313/1243065755.jpg">
<cite>Photo by Ulrik Pedersen/DeFodi Images via Getty Images</cite>
<figcaption>Vanzeir is the type of quick wide forward who could thrive in a Red Bull system.</figcaption>
</figure>
<p id="BpPXEe">Vanzeir most typically lines up for USG as the right-sided forward in a 3-5-2 formation used by Geraerts, peeling out wide and hugging the line like a traditional winger as much as crashing the box like a striker. His goals often come in the type of quick breakouts and counter attacks Red Bull likes to make hay from, but the question becomes where does he fit in a New York formation loaded with a variety of wide forward players.</p>
<p id="wrgNIB">If Gerhard Struber plans again on using the 5-4-1/3-4-3 hybrid he rode 2022 with, Vanzeir would be an ideal fit for the type of deep-and-wide forward roles Struber often deployed Luquinhas, Lewis Morgan, Serge Ngoma, and Omir Fernandez to freelance in at points of last year. But even more enticing is the chance Vanzeir offers to return to the 4-4-2 diamond formation that Struber attempted to install in his first few months in Harrison. With Cory Burke added in free agency, Elias Manoel signed permanently, and Patryk Klimala apparently back at preseason in good spirits after an offseason of exit rumors, the addition of Vanzeir would give New York a full stable of mobile, incisive forwards capable of operating in wide areas.</p>
<p id="XSCB5q">The thought of a January Red Bulls transfer saga always arouses the memory of a certain Paraguayan-Argentine. Could Vanzeir prove to be the type of final piece that Kaku did in the rampant Shield season of 2018? Getting him signed appears to be an ample challenge to begin with, but the ingredients for a dream are being measured out in Harrison.</p>
https://www.onceametro.com/2023/1/10/23547468/lateral-play-and-love-island-what-to-know-about-dante-vanzeir-new-york-red-bullsBen CorkRoss Haley2023-01-09T18:26:24-05:002023-01-09T18:26:24-05:00Red Bulls Paper Revue: January 9, 2023
<figure>
<img alt="New England Revolution v New York Red Bulls" src="https://cdn.vox-cdn.com/thumbor/MeiZOpDIQQGWyy0pP4lMF77dyhI=/0x0:4600x3067/1310x873/cdn.vox-cdn.com/uploads/chorus_image/image/71846352/1243118526.0.jpg" />
<figcaption>New York fans would hate to clap farewell to Carlos Coronel this soon. | Photo by Ira L. Black - Corbis/Getty Images</figcaption>
</figure>
<p>Sturm Graz backs off Carlos Coronel for now, a new Ibrahim Sekagya protege appears in Uganda, and Amir Murillo approaches his next move in this week’s links</p> <p id="AOAcXt">Welcome to the Red Bulls Paper Revue presented by <em>Once a Metro</em>.</p>
<p id="ejoc9K">I’ve realized that most criticism is just projection. People are disingenuous cowards who cannot get their own lives in order. For example, my dentist told me that I need to brush more, but I guarantee she’s the one with the “serious dental hygiene problem.”</p>
<p id="RViBdj">Here’s this week’s top story.</p>
<p id="FZsLXx">***</p>
<p id="r3S3qK">I simply cannot allow the <em>Twitterati </em>to have all of the transfer market fun. Here’s a rumor just for the click-and-readers to let you know that I appreciate your indulgence. Let’s hope aboard the jet and head to Uganda because it seems like the Red Bulls may be doing just that.</p>
<p id="E8NImV"><a href="https://swiftsportsug.com/blog/revealed-why-the-leagues-most-in-form-player-ibrahim-kasule-was-excluded-from-the-chan-squad/">According to <em>Swift Sports</em></a>, “highly-rated” midfielder <strong>Ibrahim Kasule </strong>was left off of the Uganda roster for the upcoming African Nations Championship, which is a different competition than the Africa Cup of Nations. He is described as the “most in-form” and “best” player in the domestic Premier League, racking up five goals and six assists during the first half of the season. The 18-year-old attacking midfielder competes with Wakiso Giants FC, also known as the <em>Purple Sharks</em>.</p>
<p id="twJDt3">Now, some are questioning the nature of his absence from the national team. Kasule was withdrawn “ahead of a possible transfer to an unconfirmed club,” with his passport needed for “paperwork procedures.” He is reportedly “under the watchful eye” of countryman and NYRB II head coach <strong>Ibrahim Sekagya</strong>, which sounds vaguely similar to the <strong>Steven Sserwadda </strong>acquisition. However, there is interest from “an unidentified club in Turkey,” an enemy to bean counters the world over.</p>
<p id="Vq2DhG">The future is unwritten because as noted with delightful morbidity by <em>Swift Sports</em>, “Kasule’s possible destination remains as mysterious as death.” I’ll hazard a guess as to where he ends up: the top. This young man appears to be a legitimate talent.</p>
<div id="PUTfgs"><div style="left: 0; width: 100%; height: 0; position: relative; padding-bottom: 56.25%;"><iframe src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/4VZmGr_74DE?rel=0" style="top: 0; left: 0; width: 100%; height: 100%; position: absolute; border: 0;" allowfullscreen="" scrolling="no" allow="accelerometer; clipboard-write; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture; web-share;"></iframe></div></div>
<p id="IAr4MD">***</p>
<p id="O3ccqy"><strong>Carlos Coronel </strong>is NOT going to Sturm Graz… maybe.</p>
<p id="31NmgB"><a href="https://www.krone.at/2896272"><em>Kronen Zeitung </em>reports</a> that the second-place Austrian Bundesliga outfit was pursuing the Brazilian goalkeeper. He even followed them on social media platform <em>Instagram</em>! However, the deal “fell through” because the Red Bulls “didn’t play along and choked off the change financially.”</p>
<p id="snVOhw">And that’s how it is. The drama is over. Move on with your lives.</p>
<p id="cKbMbP">Unless… it’s not over <a href="https://www.laola1.at/de/red/fussball/bundesliga/news/schicker--der-stand-bei-transfer-personalien-von-sturm-graz/">because Sturm Graz badly wants a goalkeeper</a>. “We keep our eyes open,” <a href="https://www.krone.at/2897987">said sporting director Andreas Schicker</a>. “If something fits for the future, something can happen in winter. It will be a foreign solution. It’s difficult to implement, but I wouldn’t rule it out entirely.”</p>
<p id="RRwCy9">Should be an exciting January.</p>
<p id="chFKqL">***</p>
<p id="PWiUkQ"><strong>Natasha Patel </strong>is done in New York, leaving the role of head of performance analysis and <a href="https://trainingground.guru/articles/patel-returns-to-southampton-as-assistant-academy-director">returning to Southampton</a>, where she previously held the same position. However, her new job title is assistant academy director for the English club’s renowned youth setup, which includes “special responsibility for the U15 to U18 programme.” The Red Bulls <a href="https://www.newyorkredbulls.com/news/new-york-red-bulls-name-natasha-patel-head-performance-analysis">hired her in October of 2019</a>, touting her abilities in “match review, opponent preparation, [and] player development.”</p>
<p id="NE7h2u">Time will tell how big of a deal this move is… or it won’t. </p>
<p id="8Oinu5">***</p>
<p id="Yk73ZA"><strong>Red Bull Salzburg</strong> wants <strong>Johan Vásquez</strong>.</p>
<p id="jZXPDQ">The something-time Austrian champions <a href="https://elcapitalino.mx/deportes/johan-vazquez-podria-salir-de-italia-y-emigrar-a-austria/">are reportedly pursuing the Mexican defender</a>, currently on loan at Cremonese from Genoa. He isn’t playing a lot in Serie A and could benefit from a change of scenery. The deal would be a loan with an option to buy, hoping to find cover for Maximilian Wöber, who moved to <a href="https://throughitalltogether.sbnation.com">Leeds United</a>.</p>
<p id="ROGcHh">And why, pray tell, is this relevant to you, dear reader? Well, you see, the story goes that Red Bull has been pursuing Vásquez for quite a long time, back when he was at UNAM Pumas. <a href="https://twitter.com/edutorresr/status/1610655963048022019">According to reports out of Mexico</a>, the 24-year-old was once a target for New York.</p>
<p id="ffKMni">Things change, don’t they?</p>
<p id="a5IXq4">***</p>
<p id="zKgC2w"><a href="https://www.onceametro.com">New York Red Bulls</a> head of goalkeeping <strong>Jyri Nieminen </strong>appeared on <em>THE LOWDOWN</em> podcast, <a href="https://podcasts.apple.com/gb/podcast/the-lowdown-episode-95-the-art-of-curiosity/id1553685531?i=1000592775235">being interviewed</a> on an episode titled “The Art of Curiosity.” He discusses “turning [his] back on playing for a coaching career” and “acclimatizing to different cultures.” The Finn is always a good listen, so tune in and have a barrel of enjoyment.</p>
<p id="mrJsoq">***</p>
<p id="21X0bo">After a lot of, honestly, nonstarter rumors about <strong>Amir Murillo</strong>, I think we can take this one a little more seriously.</p>
<p id="Q3JGz1"><a href="https://www.lance.com.br/botafogo/botafogo-tem-interesse-na-contratacao-de-lateral-direito-do-anderlecht-da-belgica.html"><em>LANCE!</em></a><em> </em>and <em>ge </em>have<em> </em>reported that Botafogo is negotiating for the Panamanian fullback. The two-time Campeonato Brasileiro Série A champions are deciding between him and Giovanni González of Mallorca. Media believes the latter is a more likely signing, as Murillo is such an important player for Anderlecht.</p>
<p id="MUNHfU">The Red Bulls are <a href="https://twitter.com/Dylan_Butler/status/1203050454604820480">reportedly due a sell-on fee in the event of his sale</a>, which is sure to be a devastatingly large amount of moolah.</p>
<p id="zPnCel">***</p>
<p id="w5N6aC"><strong>Peter Stroud </strong>finished <a href="https://www.dukechronicle.com/article/2023/01/duke-mens-soccer-peter-stroud-mac-hermann-trophy-runner-up">runner up in the voting for the 2022 MAC Hermann Trophy</a>. The Duke University midfielder came up short against Creighton’s Duncan McGuire. And that’s all the news there is about him.</p>
<p id="xw17vN">***</p>
<p id="P0xQNw">Who is the hottest defender in Ligue 2?</p>
<p id="g9WBy0">If you guess “<strong>Issiar Dramé</strong>,” then you’re damn right. The 6’6” center back joined SC Bastia last September and finally broke through into the lineup. He started and went the distance in the last two matches, scoring the game-winning goal in the latter 1-0 victory over Valenciennes.</p>
<p id="rYrXNz">The opposing goalkeeper oopsied and forgot that Dramé is a biggun.</p>
<div id="yD1doH"><div style="left: 0; width: 100%; height: 0; position: relative; padding-bottom: 56.25%;"><iframe src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/H9DSy63hN2A?rel=0&start=121" style="top: 0; left: 0; width: 100%; height: 100%; position: absolute; border: 0;" allowfullscreen="" scrolling="no" allow="accelerometer; clipboard-write; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture; web-share;"></iframe></div></div>
<p id="hYr50x">Of course, his career prior to Bastia has been a bit of an odyssey. His time in MLS reportedly ended due to a “quota problem for foreign problems.” He found “waiting for the departure of other players” to be “impossible” and returned to Ukraine right before the situation in that country became front-page news.</p>
<p id="qalPS3">After over a year without match experience, Dramé had to get back into the swing of things. “Training alone and training with a group is totally different. First, I had to pick up the pace physically,” <a href="https://www.corsematin.com/articles/issiar-drame-a-pas-de-geant-au-sc-bastia-135913">he told <em>Corse Matin</em></a>. “Then I found the feelings of the matches with the reserve, even if it is not the same adversity as in Ligue 2. After the truce, the coach came to see me, to find out how I felt. I was ready, I was looking forward to the moment to play.”</p>
<p id="CBkQeH">In a way, Dramé’s career was on an island. Bastia, where he is experiencing success, is located on Corsica, which is an island. Isn’t it poetic how the figurative and the literal can intersect?</p>
<p id="DZLjrw">“<em>No, that’s stupid</em>.”</p>
<p id="uDORFb">I’m sorry. I’m doing my best.</p>
<p id="X3tSWZ">***</p>
<p id="okfcii">Who was named <a href="https://nabd.com/s/113484748-bcd895/%D9%83%D8%A7%D9%83%D9%88-%D8%A7%D9%84%D8%AA%D8%B9%D8%A7%D9%88%D9%86..-%D9%86%D8%AC%D9%85-%D8%AF%D9%8A%D8%B3%D9%85%D8%A8%D8%B1">the top player in the Saudi Professional League for the month of September?</a> If you guessed <strong>Alejandro Romero Gamarra</strong>, also known as <strong>Kaku</strong>, then you are correct and probably cheating. Following the end of the World Cup, the Al-Taawoun attacker put up two goals and three assists in three matches, to say nothing of his brace and a helper in the Round of 16 of The Custodian of the Two Holy Mosques’ Cup.</p>
<p id="q3FGWz">That’s nice. I hope he’s having fun over there.</p>
<p id="jgAey0">***</p>
<p id="GDTN5j">Do you remember <strong>Aurélien Collin</strong>? The French defender played for the Red Bulls from 2016 through 2018 and was pretty good. He was a classic “hate him as an opponent, but you want him on your team” kind of defender, to say nothing of his actual talent and ability to stabilize a back line.</p>
<p id="KKFlME">Perhaps those organizational skills will come into use at his new gig, assisting Ben Olsen at Dynamo Houston. Less than a year since his retirement, <a href="https://www.houstondynamofc.com/news/houston-dynamo-fc-announce-initial-hires-to-coaching-staff">Collin is getting a shot at the big time</a>, described as a “hungry, up-and-coming coach with clear ideas about the game.” The… <em>Orange Crush </em>[<em>Really?</em>] have been trending downward over the past few years and could definitely use his help.</p>
<p id="2v5t1e">Honestly, I think he’s going to smash it, and not just physically, as is his custom.</p>
<p id="AYpkNS">Here’s a joke that was submitted by Ginger of Lyndhurst.</p>
<p id="61JDbh">“<em>After missing the playoffs eight times in nine seasons, they should change the club’s name from </em><a href="https://www.dynamotheory.com"><em>Houston Dynamo</em></a><em> FC to Houston We-Have-A-Problem FC.</em>”</p>
<p id="rWI1rq">Thank you, Ginger. Those two MLS Cups were won a very long time ago.</p>
<p id="EkEXwu">***</p>
<p id="nUsXbc"><em><strong>Do you have a story you’d like to submit to the Paper Revue? Email us at bencorkOAM@gmail.com or send a DM to @Once_A_Metro on Twitter.</strong></em></p>
https://www.onceametro.com/2023/1/9/23547451/red-bulls-paper-revue-january-9-2023Ross Haley2023-01-09T09:55:56-05:002023-01-09T09:55:56-05:00New hairstyle, new club? Catching up on the latest John Tolkin news
<figure>
<img alt="SOCCER: OCT 30 MLS - CF Montreal at New York Red Bulls" src="https://cdn.vox-cdn.com/thumbor/zOIIYTdmlAX_guETUpx01rSTPhw=/0x0:4321x2881/1310x873/cdn.vox-cdn.com/uploads/chorus_image/image/71843809/1236316023.0.jpg" />
<figcaption>John Tolkin keeps everyone guessing on and off the field. | Photo by Rich Graessle/Icon Sportswire via Getty Images</figcaption>
</figure>
<p>Left back is the center of attention as always</p> <p id="qFLz1u">MLS silly season is in full swing, with several clubs already making big swings in the market in a renewed attempt at a Cup run. Incoming business for the <a href="https://www.onceametro.com">New York Red Bulls</a> has been customarily slow, expected to pick up soon with links to <a href="https://twitter.com/corkinho/status/1610853914324398085?s=20&t=h7Ae31IOJw_xiZb9-c1qcg">foreign strikers</a> and <a href="https://twitter.com/tombogert/status/1611813449956196352?s=20&t=h7Ae31IOJw_xiZb9-c1qcg">family friends</a>. </p>
<p id="0L9xWr">But one major question mark lingers around fan favorite left back John Tolkin, with <a href="https://twitter.com/MLSTransfers/status/1611793529583411204?s=20&t=h7Ae31IOJw_xiZb9-c1qcg">sources confirming more tangible links for a move abroad</a> that had been practically assumed since the promising fullback integrated into the senior side. Recently named the <a href="https://www.football-observatory.com/IMG/sites/mr/mr81/en/">most promising U-21 “defensive left-back” in the world</a> by Swiss statistics nerds at the CIES Football Observatory, the Chatham native is reported to have marked interest from New York’s siblings in Salzburg, with more casual looks from Leipzig, Nottingham Forest, and an Anderlecht side already accustomed to <a href="https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Michael_Amir_Murillo">poaching New York fullbacks</a>. </p>
<p id="fBFyro">The 20-year-old has enjoyed a smooth transition through the New York ranks, joining the Red Bulls academy in 2015, making his Red Bulls II debut in 2019, and made his first team debut in 2021, just a year after graduating high school. Since then he has enjoyed two full seasons as the starting left-back, splitting time with Andrew Gutman in 2021, and running unopposed in 2022, missing only 2 MLS games. Currently sitting on 59 first-team appearances and 2 goals, the former US U-17’s potential has been evident since his first game, as he has shown remarkable composure and maturity in his play for his age since his debut. Tolkin is extremely solid in possession, <a href="https://www.onceametro.com/2021/8/10/22618330/maybe-for-now-john-tolkin-should-stay-in-midfield">having played more centrally in his academy days</a>, composed and able to provide a consistent outlet for center-backs or midfielders. Lauded as the next great Homegrown after concerning stagnation from an academy setup that despite its reputation, had failed to produce a Tyler Adams or Matt Miazga caliber player in some time, Tolkin was always destined for bigger things, and entering his third MLS season his time may have just come. Tolkin still has room for growth, and will certainly be wary of making the all too common mistake of leaving home too soon à la Kyle Duncan, but the club seems to be taking steps to assure they are fully prepared when he does leave. </p>
<p id="92iAVs">It’s no coincidence that New York have made two moves on left-backs in the same offseason Tolkin’s European interest has commenced, with Red Bulls II starter Curtis Ofori and University of Connecticut wide man Jayden Reid signed to Homegrown contracts early. While still young and very raw, Ofori had long been a standout in USL play and was due a promotion soon, and projects to be the starter in the case of a Tolkin move. Reid was a more unexpected move, but the former Huskie is no slouch either, making <a href="https://www.newyorkredbulls.com/news/new-york-red-bulls-adds-university-of-connecticut-defender-jayden-reid">51 appearances over four seasons at UConn</a>, with 3 goals and 7 assists in his collegiate career. The New York native <a href="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=gVCvp7Ar8Ck">projects as a more attack-minded player</a> than his aforementioned colleagues, but with Red Bull Academy experience he should slot well into the Red Bull II setup that he’s likely to spend most of the year with. </p>
<p id="vLvb7a">With Tolkin’s uncertain departure in mind, opting to sign two young replacements to fill out the depth chart is not only peak Red Bulls, but also a more logical decision than panic-buying a more expensive option. The club will be well-served by Ofori and Reid if Tolkin’s expected departure comes to fruition, but the very real possibility that Tolkin stays will not be a problem, as Ofori and Reid would benefit from playing understudy for a year, with Reid likely to not see much senior action regardless. While the Reid and Ofori moves have been largely ignored by a fanbase once again clamoring for more big name moves akin to Kaku and Gonzalo Veron, they are solid improving moves for an organization trying to figure out its progressing identity.</p>
<p id="Rmp7Ia">Onto more important matters, it’s not all good news on the Red Bulls front, as around the same time as the <a href="http://www.sbnation.com/transfer-rumors">transfer rumors</a>, photos emerged of Tolkin… wearing box braids. Initially photographed being braided on his Instagram while on vacation in Turks and Caicos, a <a href="https://twitter.com/TolkinJohn/status/1610352628537647105?s=20&t=h7Ae31IOJw_xiZb9-c1qcg">Twitter selfie</a> confirming the final result sent the 20 people who were paying attention into a frenzy. Tolkin has always made up for his relatively routine playing style with his flagrant hairstyles, famously sporting a mullet in his early professional days, before going blonde in 2021 and sparking a bleach craze in the squad that tragically took the souls of <a href="https://www.instagram.com/p/CSfKVEyJ7ZI/?utm_source=ig_web_copy_link">Fabio</a>, <a href="https://www.instagram.com/p/CR7SImgFR1B/?utm_source=ig_web_copy_link">Klimala</a>, and even a then-injured <a href="https://www.instagram.com/p/CQhclflpwoj/?utm_source=ig_web_copy_link">Aaron Long</a>.</p>
<p id="nyAHqK">After resetting with a buzz cut in early 2022, the question on everyone’s mind was, what’s next? Rumors of a <a href="https://twitter.com/martineznotjose/status/1562591118067642368?s=20&t=h7Ae31IOJw_xiZb9-c1qcg">return to the mullet</a> never came to fruition, but no one could have expected this turn. Taking risks will never be faulted, but what exactly Tolkin was thinking when he went for the Romeo Beckham look will only be known by the man himself and the customary 2-3 teenage buddies he likely consulted. One can only assume this is a show of solidarity with <a href="https://www.instagram.com/p/Cfujj91OjyM/?utm_source=ig_web_copy_link">Ofori</a> and <a href="https://www.instagram.com/reel/CmhcjoOhauP/?utm_source=ig_web_copy_link">Reid</a>, who have also sported the hairstyle. It does not suit him nearly as well, but can one fault a risk-taker? Yes. Yes one can. </p>
<p id="FKD2oJ">At least he didn’t get <a href="https://www.goal.com/en-us/news/david-beckhams-one-regret-when-he-met-nelson-mandela/blt394baeeeb3ff79bf">cornrows</a>.</p>
<div id="Ltew41">
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">
<p lang="zxx" dir="ltr"><a href="https://t.co/95t9N40J9s">pic.twitter.com/95t9N40J9s</a></p>— John Tolkin (@TolkinJohn) <a href="https://twitter.com/TolkinJohn/status/1610352628537647105?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">January 3, 2023</a>
</blockquote>
<script async="" src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script>
</div>
https://www.onceametro.com/2023/1/9/23546064/new-hairstyle-new-club-catching-up-on-the-latest-john-tolkin-news-new-york-red-bullsGregory Martinez2023-01-04T10:00:00-05:002023-01-04T10:00:00-05:00A Couple Or Three Things: Aaron Long leaves quietly massive legacy in New York
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<img alt="FC Cincinnati v New York Red Bulls" src="https://cdn.vox-cdn.com/thumbor/26ga0OBYe-89q68cb0Kl_0DEiUk=/0x0:5141x3427/1310x873/cdn.vox-cdn.com/uploads/chorus_image/image/71822187/1244001138.0.jpg" />
<figcaption>Aaron Long’s legacy illuminates many of the triumphs and failures of recent Red Bulls history. | Photo by Ira L. Black - Corbis/Getty Images</figcaption>
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<p>Center back leaves massive legacy after improbable Red Bulls career</p> <p id="sg0KKU"><em>In an outcome that was fairly predictable to anybody who had been following the story, Aaron Long officially left the </em><a href="https://www.onceametro.com"><em>New York Red Bulls</em></a><em> on Tuesday to sign a free agent deal with Los Angeles FC. Once A Metro chief editor Ben Cork is offering up </em><a href="https://youtu.be/7joYigaOgeQ"><em>a couple or three things</em></a><em> to think about as he examines Long’s legacy in New York and what his departure means for the club moving forward.</em></p>
<h3 id="Us9FAV"><strong>Minutes to replace at center back</strong></h3>
<p id="ka43BX">Let’s make like an overwrought student film and cut to the cold practical reality first: Aaron Long’s departure means the Red Bulls will have to replace his minutes at center back. Obviously the captain last year, Long has spent the last six years as one of the first names on the team sheet in Harrison. Though he missed a handful of games last year and was substituted at an unusual rate for a center back as he recovered from major injury and prepared for a World Cup run, the 30-year-old was not only a key starter, but also one of the squad’s few experienced veterans.</p>
<p id="S2Ep85">But the Red Bulls do have a unique window into what the immediate future could provide, given that the club has already seen what remaining center back pairing Andres Reyes and Sean Nealis are capable of when the duo covered for Long after his season-ending Achilles injury in 2021. The pair combined with Tom Edwards and Andrew Gutman to provide reliable defending as the club scraped to a playoff spot, and should be more than capable of carrying on their form from that season with two more years of experience sprinkled on top.</p>
<p id="kZhUKj">But they will need help both on the depth chart and likely on the field. Despite beginning his New York tenure deploying a 4-4-2 diamond, Gerhard Struber appears to have settled on a three-center back defensive line over the following season-and-a-half, stretching what’s left in the squad. Wingback Dylan Nealis frequently understudied in the wide center back roles in 2022 with mixed results, while last year’s first round SuperDraft pick Matthew Nocita impressed in limited USL minutes with the reserves but is likely still some distance from senior pro level. Cameroonian backup Hassan Ndam returned to the New York fold in 2022 after almost four years in the wilderness and gained some cameos with the first team in the home stretch, but (save for a Long-esque late bloom) is not the profile of player needed to raise or even maintain the team’s level. Another body will likely be needed — <a href="https://twitter.com/gdegustavo83/status/1610427414831587328?s=46&t=LoOLH6oYwsWX057cjPF_gQ">could it be the latest position in the New York lineup filled by a Brazilian?</a></p>
<h3 id="nQXLaU"><strong>A club icon departs</strong></h3>
<p id="sIXRUq">Particularly towards the end of his tenure in New York as the club slipped down the table while injuries and internationals curtailed his presence, it became easy to lose sight of just how important of a player Long has been to the Red Bulls on both a technical and spiritual level.</p>
<p id="cdhjmW">Other than Tyler Adams, there is no greater poster boy for the peak of the club’s powers during the Jesse Marsch era than Long, the former college midfielder who was prepared to leave soccer and take more construction work when Marsch offered him a mid-career chance to convert to defense in 2016. As if it wasn’t enough that Marsch’s Red Bulls operation were winning Supporters Shields with re-shuffled squads and academy kids, they were taking other teams’ draft busts and turning them into all-stars and national team regulars.</p>
<p id="oY2xJn">The position switch proved to be a masterstroke, with Long becoming a near-world class central defender practically overnight, leading Red Bulls II to a USL title in 2016 before becoming a first team fixture the following year and winning league defender of the year the next. Providing a rare mobility and panache on the ball at center back that proved crucial to New York’s successes of the last half decade, the Californian was the subject of multiple glamorous European bids at his peak, with Olympique Marseille, <a href="https://bracethehammer.sbnation.com/">West Ham</a> United, and even <a href="https://liverpooloffside.sbnation.com/">Liverpool</a> reported to have been admirers.</p>
<p id="4K0WQd">But now at an advanced age in the dog years of a pro soccer career, any overseas interest was likely to be more short-term in nature, and Long has chosen to close out his late-blooming career with job security in his hometown. It’s hard to fault Long for his decision, especially with what he’s already given to New York over seven seasons.</p>
<h3 id="Vllhan"><strong>Where does this leave the project?</strong></h3>
<p id="HGN9cj">The tables have turned on the “captain’s curse” joke bandied about in Red Bulls discourse for the last decade. It used to refer to the captains themselves being the cursed martyrs of Red Bull’s squad-churning philosophy, destined to be traded during their wedding when the opportunity struck. But now, for the second year in a row, it appears to be the captains themselves jumping ship.</p>
<p id="TTziWa">With Major League Soccer’s free agency rules limiting the salaries that rival league clubs can offer, Long now joins Sean Davis as the second consecutive Red Bulls captain to take an implied pay cut to leave the club. Soccer is a business and mutual departures will happen sometimes based on what’s best for both parties — good players leave good teams all the time.</p>
<p id="VUEsK0">But two key players — two captains — voluntarily leaving in consecutive years does not paint a convincing picture of what’s being accomplished in New York after what’s now been several seasons of transition. Gerhard Struber has built much of his reputation and the team’s current identity on buy-in and the supposedly magnetic energy of his system. Head of sport Jochen Schneider staked out a desire to keep the squad intact and add experience in his postseason press statements. In these contexts, the team’s main veteran leaders proving unwilling to stick around and help the team reach the supposed horizon going into Struber’s third full season at the helm is discouraging to say the least.</p>
https://www.onceametro.com/2023/1/4/23538453/a-couple-or-three-things-aaron-long-leaves-quietly-massive-legacy-in-new-york-red-bullsBen Cork2023-01-02T16:55:35-05:002023-01-02T16:55:35-05:00Red Bulls Paper Revue: January 2, 2023
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<img alt="SOCCER: JUL 10 MLS - Timbers at Red Bulls" src="https://cdn.vox-cdn.com/thumbor/mfn__QYdKgk0jy_QxT54RyFMIys=/0x0:4050x2700/1310x873/cdn.vox-cdn.com/uploads/chorus_image/image/71816940/618879258.0.jpg" />
<figcaption>This is the face Gonzalo Veron makes whenever he sees CA Independiente freely conducting business. | Photo by Rich Graessle/Icon Sportswire via Getty Images</figcaption>
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<p>The science says John Tolkin is the best young left back in the world, Omar Sowe turns right back around to Iceland, and Gonzalo Veron wants his money in this week’s links</p> <p id="cosoBA">Welcome to the <a href="https://www.onceametro.com">New York Red Bulls</a> Paper Revue presented by <em>Once a Metro</em>.</p>
<p id="nKYDPM"><a href="https://imgur.com/a/EVPKxS6">When I searched for the 1954 Italian film <em>Women and Soldiers </em>(<em>Donne e Soldati</em>) on <em>Google</em></a>, I noticed that the actor Joe Pantoliano is listed as the top member of the cast. Now, despite being born in 1951, his first credit came in 1974’s <em>Road Movie</em>. I’m curious what potentially-bigoted quirk in the algorithm determined that cinema and television’s most beloved Italian-American character thespian was attached to this random project. Thankfully, he appears unbothered by the online inaccuracy and <a href="https://www.instagram.com/p/CeoDtPYuCDv/?hl=en">is enjoying all of the hamburgers life has to offer</a>.</p>
<p id="wfUMWm">Here’s this week’s top story.</p>
<p id="BvKQel">***</p>
<p id="74xQSn">As you know, any player either from or competing in Austria should be considered a transfer target for the <strong>New York Red Bulls</strong>, regardless of any of those pesky details like truth.</p>
<p id="6A3a9P"><em>Par exemple</em>, <em>Sky Sports Austria </em>reports <a href="https://www.skysportaustria.at/ligue-1-und-mls-teams-mit-angeboten-fuer-bryan-teixeira/">that there is interest swirling</a> around <strong>Bryan Teixeira</strong>, including FC Kaiserslautern and unnamed clubs from… *<em>deep breath</em>*… France, Poland, Croatia, Turkey, Japan, South Korea, Israel, Egypt, and Major League Soccer. The 22-year-old Cape Verdean-French winger competes with Austria Lustenau, whose sports coordinator Alexander Schneider <a href="https://www.austria-lustenau.at/teams/profis/berichte/item/1457-bryan-silva-teixeira-bleibt-beim-sc-austria-lustenau.html">considers a winter departure “not really an option” without a massive offer</a>. There’s also the possibility of buying and loaning him back for the remainder of the Bundesliga season, which is described as not very “sexy” – a curious word choice, to be sure.</p>
<p id="ibaSTR">Teixeira is an interesting case, recently becoming one of the hottest young players in Europe. After signing a professional contract with Clermont Foot in France, he embarked on a few loans, the last being Austria Lustenau in the second tier <em>2. Liga </em>or Austrian Football Second League (formerly known as the <em>Erste Liga</em>). His three goals and seven assists helped claim promotion, and the club was able to keep him around on a free transfer, with a contract lasting through the summer of 2024.</p>
<p id="IPWHjx">His production has only increased after stepping up the pyramid. Teixeira has six goals and seven assists in 16 Bundesliga appearances, with Lustenau looking very likely to survive the drop. The sharks are circling, and time will tell if the club’s valuation matches the hunger of the bloodthirsty suitors.</p>
<p id="BdIaqL">As always, we have no idea if the Red Bulls are the MLS outfit interested in securing his services. If they’re not, then we move on and forget. If they are, then I demand full-throated credit for putting the pieces together, difficult puzzle that it is.</p>
<p id="eT878S">***</p>
<p id="OOuFlu">Following the 2022 MLS <a href="https://www.newyorkredbulls.com/news/new-york-red-bulls-announce-end-of-year-roster-decisions-x1267">season, the New York Red Bulls declined the contract option</a> for forward <strong>Omar Sowe</strong>. The Gambian-American spent the previous year on loan with Breiðablik, which won the top division of Icelandic soccer, known as the Besta deild karla. After a brief spell as a free agent, he has found his next destination.</p>
<p id="Am87xm">Well, it’s actually the same destination because Sowe <a href="https://www.leiknir.com/frettir/omar-sowe-maettur-i-leikni/?fbclid=IwAR2P79Evhqv-KbeW14JJiJNF_yzQMyQbzIkpKDMoX3bWQiLBklnNS3Gvbk4">is staying in Iceland!</a> He joined capital city outfit Íþróttafélagið Leiknir, also known as Leiknir Reykjavík. The club finished last season at 12th in the Besta deild karla and <a href="https://www.mbl.is/sport/efstadeild/2022/12/29/islandsmeistari_til_leiknis/">was relegated to the second-tier Lengjudeild karla</a>.</p>
<p id="wCvMtn">And who wouldn’t want to stay in <em>Eylenda</em>? The North Atlantic country <a href="https://www.visiticeland.com/">allows you to escape the ordinary</a> because “every day, there is an adventure waiting to happen” with an “abundance of mountains, volcanoes, glaciers, rivers, lakes, caves, and otherwise rough terrain waiting to be tackled.” While <em>Once a Metro </em>is not sponsored by <em>Visit Iceland</em>, we would love to be!</p>
<p id="zzdIaa">***</p>
<p id="SmbegR">The Red Bulls made an important Homegrown signing this offseason, promoting <strong>Curtis Ofori </strong>from the reserve team. The 17-year-old’s development appears to be right on track, progressing exactly as he’s supposed to be. <a href="https://www.poughkeepsiejournal.com/story/sports/2022/12/27/curtis-ofori-signs-ny-red-bulls-wappingers-tyler-adams-footsteps/69753589007/">The <em>Poughkeepsie Journal </em>got the scoop</a> on his background and future potential.</p>
<p id="34j106">“He’s a fantastic young man,” said academy director <strong>Sean McCafferty</strong>. “His success isn’t surprising based on his dedication to his craft and his make-up. He’s got a great personality, which helps in any locker room, and he has the social intelligence to know how to act in any situation, so he’s able to fit in despite being young. He knows it’s not a sprint, but he is ambitious… He’s got an exciting future.”</p>
<p id="RvS9g2">Ofori does have an exciting future. Do you know what doesn’t have an exciting future? Zeppelins.</p>
<p id="wfQoNN">***</p>
<p id="tI4nMd">The International Centre for Sports Studies, also known as CIES, <a href="https://www.football-observatory.com/IMG/sites/mr/mr81/en/">released a monthly scouting report</a> of “promising u21 talents in the world who were born after January 2002.” There are goalkeepers, midfielders, forwards, defenders, and even a New York Red Bull. Which player made the cut?</p>
<p id="AZw5L3"><strong>John Tolkin</strong> is the top-ranked “most promising defensive left back” in the world alongside Alejandro Balde of Barcelona. The 20-year-old is noted for his ability to take down opposing dribblers, recover possession, and win aerial duels, far outperforming MLS averages. CIES affixes him with an estimated value of 5.1 million euro, which is nice if you can get it.</p>
<p id="pUKHwy"><a href="https://www.onceametro.com/2022/10/5/23389663/john-tolkin-signs-new-york-red-bulls-contract-amid-european-rumors">Tolkin recently signed a contract extension</a> through 2027 with a club option for the 2028 season. I doubt he’ll be around the Red Bulls that long. Now the question is, in this modern world that demands two-way fullbacks, which European outfit will pay the necessary fee to acquire someone with his less flashy yet wholly valuable abilities?</p>
<p id="V5cuvV">Maybe Anderlecht <a href="https://www.voetbalnieuws.be/news/694457/shopt-anderlecht-weer-in-de-mls">will return to fishing in familiar waters</a>. </p>
<p id="QqLkxF">***</p>
<p id="dYElf2">The deal is done.</p>
<p id="Lg8v4v"><strong>Youba Diarra </strong>is <a href="https://www.redbullsalzburg.at/de/aktuelles/news/youba-diarra-wechselt-zu-cadiz-cf">departing RB Salzburg</a> and headed to Cádiz Club de Fútbol, which competes in Spain’s La Liga. The Malian midfielder and former New York loanee <a href="https://www.cadizcf.com/en/notice/agreement-with-salzburg-for-the-transfer-of-youba-diarra">signed a contract through June of 2027</a>. He Is set to begin training very soon and, most importantly, passed his medical examination at the Hospital San Rafael. His last attempt at joining <em>Los Piratas</em> (The Pirates) <a href="https://www.lavozdigital.es/canal-amarillo/noticias-cadiz-cf/lvdi-cadiz-youba-diarra-fichaje-cadista-estuvo-rosal-202212271110_noticia.html">was derailed by lingering knee issues</a>.</p>
<p id="afJ4xr"><a href="https://www.diariodecadiz.es/cadizcf/elevada-clausula-rescision-contrato-youba-diarra-cadiz-cf_0_1751525361.html">According to <em>Diario de Cádiz</em></a>, the desperate-for-midfielders club is really putting all the eggs in Diarra’s basket, giving him the longest deal on the roster. His contract has a 30 million euro exit clause. However, that number halves if Cádiz is relegated to the second division, if anyone is desperate to pay 15 million euro for him.</p>
<p id="G63Zyu">That’s a lot of money, but those release clauses are usually more superficial than anything, like fondant. Remember when fondant was a big thing? Every cooking show and <em>YouTube </em>channel: fondant, fondant, fondant. Elaborate cake culture in general really had that moment in the sun and then disappeared into the historical ether.</p>
<p id="1zBqEy">***</p>
<p id="L3sNID"><strong>Fábio Gomes </strong>has some suitors.</p>
<p id="Z32T0a"><a href="https://www.mg.superesportes.com.br/app/noticias/futebol/atletico-mg/2022/12/28/noticia_atletico_mg,3984763/juventude-faz-consulta-por-fabio-gomes-do-galo-mas-se-assusta-com-valores.shtml">The first club to come a-courtin’</a> is Esporte Clube Juventude, which recently was relegated from the Campeonato Brasileiro Série A. However, there is a bit of a snag, as the Rio Grande do Sul side “will work with one of the lowest salary sheets” in the second division and “will not do crazy things to assemble [the] squad.” Atlético Mineiro is <a href="https://ge.globo.com/futebol/times/atletico-mg/noticia/2022/12/29/atletico-mg-empresta-neto-para-chapecoense-e-felicio-para-estonia-fabio-gomes-tem-sondagens.ghtml">hoping that Fábio’s eventual loan outfit will pay his entire 2023 salary</a>, but that’s going to require a lot of negotiating.</p>
<p id="BZvrnL">In total, six pursuers are alleged by local outlet <em>ge</em>: three domestic and three abroad. If a Brazilian deal fails to materialize, there is that vague interest from Turkey that always seems to arise during transfer sagas of this nature. <a href="https://www.otempo.com.br/sports/atletico/atletico-estuda-destino-para-atacante-fabio-gomes-juventude-ou-turquia-1.2788651"><em>O Tempo </em>claims</a> that the European nation is “the most likely destination” because Atlético believes this would be “a better showcase” for Fábio’s many abilities which include being tall and… being tall.</p>
<p id="fLZeOX">***</p>
<p id="ZHE3qD">Speaking of Türkiye, if you listen closely, there is a little bit of noise concerning <strong>Serge Ngoma</strong>.</p>
<p id="g0KaZg"><a href="https://twitter.com/eksi_fener/status/1608866493277818881">A few forums and social media accounts</a> are <a href="https://twitter.com/Emrekod28/status/1608758921069744129">connecting the Red Bulls teenager to Fenerbahçe Spor Kulübü of the Süper Lig</a>. There are vague mentions of “searching” and “consideration” from the 28-time and reigning domestic champions but little actual information, to say nothing of <a href="https://www.youtube.com/watch?app=desktop&v=wqtTAJk7mJ0">the perfunctory “Welcome to Fenerbahçe” highlight video</a>. The best I can find is <a href="https://www.transfermarkt.com.tr/serge-ngoma-fenerbahcea-geliyor-mu-/thread/forum/344/thread_id/9899">a post on <em>transfermarkt </em>titled “IS SERGE NGOMA COMING TO FENERBAHCE?”</a> in which user <em>Scout42 </em>claims that “Fenerbahçe searched for a wing striker at halftime for the young foreign quota.”</p>
<p id="TbhHDs">I lightly scoured the internet for additional dirt but came up short. Perhaps this rumor was revealed on Turkish radio or it is, in fact, a whole big pile of nothing. Let’s lean toward the latter because a story of this nature would likely be splashed across the front pages of every existing major soccer publication in America… all one of them.</p>
<p id="vCv8Om">Ngoma turns 18 next summer, after which a few clubs will likely toss cheeky bids the Red Bulls’ way, hoping to spring the high-potential winger before his value increases. He’s already shown enough talent to merit speculative interest. While I, personally, doubt the veracity of these Fenerbahçe whispers (and pray it’s not some <em>Football Manager </em>save, although I appreciate the opportunity for additional column space), try to use the noise as a reminder of his upcoming eligibility for a move to Europe.</p>
<p id="OKUbr4">***</p>
<p id="eJdoz5">Every so often, another ownership group publicly declares that multi-club ownership is the way of the future. Some follow through, others don’t. <strong>Bournemouth </strong>chairman <a href="https://go.redirectingat.com?id=66960X1516590&xs=1&url=https%3A%2F%2Ftheathletic.com%2F4043973%2F2022%2F12%2F29%2Fbill-foley-plans-bournemouth-multi-club-model-feeder-clubs-michael-b-jordan%2F&referrer=sbnation.com&sref=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.onceametro.com%2F2023%2F1%2F2%2F23536174%2Fred-bulls-paper-revue-january-2-2023" rel="sponsored nofollow noopener" target="_blank">certainly has some ideas</a> on how to streamline the player development and recruitment process.</p>
<p id="3ynnK1">“It’s really to control our destiny; to develop players in other locations and buy clubs that have great academies that are developing their own players,” <a href="https://www.foleyfoodandwinesociety.com/our-team/bill-foley/">said financial services magnate, vintner, decent golfer, restaurateur, and Vegas Golden Knights owner Bill Foley</a>. “We believe we’ve settled on a really interesting opportunity in Ligue 1 and that process is moving very quickly... A lot of people are coming to us with a lot of different ideas, but they have to realize that we are calculated in the way we buy clubs. We don’t overpay, so we want to be careful about that and there are lots of opportunities... We’ll have a third European club that will maybe be a level below Ligue 1 and then we’ll take a look at South America and really start investigating that because that’s the feeder system. A Uruguayan club that can feed into a Belgian club, that can feed into a French club, that can feed into a Premier League club. We’re controlling our destiny.”</p>
<p id="X4Jdz7">Bournemouth will, of course, be “at the top of the pyramid.” This is where the ball is going. You can either move to that point or be surprised when it survives.</p>
<p id="YX3OSR">***</p>
<p id="fLH3ck"><strong>Ben Mines </strong>found a new club. The former Homegrown <a href="https://www.uslchampionship.com/news_article/show/1253130?referrer_id=2333971">signed a “multi-year” deal with THE Miami FC</a>, staying in the USL Championship after a loan stint with the Colorado Springs Switchbacks. The young attacker played with the Red Bulls MLS squad from 2018 through 2020, making six total appearances and scoring two goals.</p>
<p id="8lI1Do">***</p>
<p id="MjDvlq">Former Red Bulls attacker <strong>Blerti Hajdari </strong>is in the news.</p>
<p id="GisYq0">Oh, you don’t remember him? The Albanian youth international <a href="https://www.oursportscentral.com/services/releases/weekly-update-red-bulls-hunt-for-open-cup-quarterfinals-berth-tuesday/n-4415150">competed with the U-23 squad during the 2012 National Premier Soccer League season</a> after a stint with domestic super-club KF Tirana. He was doing quite well and scoring a few goals, but the cruel Lady Injury ruined his career.</p>
<p id="EMOSQM">“I moved to America, I was lucky enough to join the New York Red Bulls, which is known to be one of the most elite teams in MLS,” said Hajdari. “I did very well. I was active in the New York Red Bulls with the second team scoring nine goals in 12 games. Also, during this time, players from the second team trained with the first team. There I was lucky enough to meet <strong>Thierry Henry</strong> and <strong>Rafael Marquez</strong>, as well as many players who still play in that team today. It was a beautiful time and a very beautiful experience. Unfortunately, I had to end my career due to an injury I suffered.”</p>
<p id="OEc5CE">As for why he suddenly became more notable, <a href="https://dosja.al/art-argetim/beniada-nishani-nis-bashkejetesen-me-vellain-e-arber-hajdarajt-detaj-i264134">Hajdari is reportedly dating model and former <em>Big Brother VIP Albania</em> contestant Beniada Nishani</a>. While his brother works as an “opinionist” on the reality competition, the couple is adamant about not having met through him. The two are said to have first crossed paths on <em>Top Channel </em>show <em>Procesi Sportiv </em>(Sport Process) where the retired player serves as an analyst.</p>
<p id="LwjXrF">And that’s your dose of Albanian celebrity gossip for the week… month… year? I’m not sure how regularly we’ll be checking in on the swinging Tirana social scene. Let’s play it by ear.</p>
<p id="oJaPUT">***</p>
<p id="s0wmvr"><strong>Gonzalo Verón</strong> flexed some muscle in his ongoing legal saga.</p>
<p id="g4IwPv">The one-time Red Bulls Designated Player was able to <a href="https://www.ellitoral.com/deportes/gonzalo-veron-independiente-deuda-inhibido-temporada-2023_0_aJoM5mXtDZ.html">temporarily stop Club Atlético Independiente from doing any business</a> until his $4.8 million is paid. The Labor Court Number Two of Avellaneda-Lanús ordered a “preventative embargo on any sum of money that the defendant must receive for the transfer, sale, assignment, or loan of soccer players until the amount is covered.” The legal claim reportedly involves non-payment of a supposedly agreed-upon compensation for his MLS contract termination.</p>
<p id="g5tlxS"><a href="https://www.laprensa.com.ar/524083-Independiente-no-puede-incorporar-mas-jugadores-por-una-demanda-de-Gonzalo-Veron.note.aspx">With multiple transfers lined up</a>, Independiente successfully appealed the court’s decision, having “given up property as a guarantee.” To avoid further consequences, additional documentation must be presented next week. Despite two unaccepted proposals, <a href="https://www.tycsports.com/independiente/la-justicia-le-prohibio-a-independiente-fichar-jugadores-por-la-deuda-con-gonzalo-veron-id484172.html">the club will once again meet with Verón’s representatives in February</a> in the hopes of finally coming to an agreement.</p>
<p id="17eMIc">I’m sure they’ll work things out.</p>
<p id="MsMH8B">Here’s a joke that was submitted by Augusta of Hillsborough.</p>
<p id="aq3N0z">“<em>Gonzalo Verón is more impactful off the field than he ever was on it.</em>”</p>
<p id="hrOTGq">Thank you, Augusta. Your last name wouldn’t happen to be Marsch, would it? I’m kidding.</p>
<p id="G7hR8r">***</p>
<p id="jI6iBZ"><em><strong>Do you have a story you’d like to submit to the Paper Revue? Email us at bencorkOAM@gmail.com or send a DM to @Once_A_Metro on Twitter.</strong></em></p>
https://www.onceametro.com/2023/1/2/23536174/red-bulls-paper-revue-january-2-2023Ross Haley