The Designated Players | An MLS Podcast

Finalists in the last two #WorldCups, France are looking to be the first team to go to 3 straight since 1994-2002 Brazil. Michael Olise may be the reason they do it. Is he the best Winger in the WORLD right now? Video: youtu.be/09ns9kad7fU Audio: linktr.ee/thedppod

The 2010 winners of the #WorldCup are back, and stacked with talent. Is this the year that Spain wins it all? How Lamine Yamal handles the brightest spotlight may make all the difference! Video: youtu.be/CFrUnpljk6E Audio: linktr.ee/thedppod

Belgium's Golden Generation is all but over. Is there still that same pressure to win it all at this year's #WorldCup? We discuss all that and more in our Group G preview! Video: youtu.be/ZuOR3uaEHvM Audio: linktr.ee/thedppod

One of the dark horses each year, is this Japan's chance to really take a run at the #WorldCup? A healthy Kubo could be all the difference 👇️ Video: youtu.be/MyMxS2oPFfI Audio: linktr.ee/thedppod

England's roster reveal was meant to bring elation. Instead, it brought confusion, disappointment, and anger. Is football coming home in 2026, or is it an early #WorldCup exit for the 3 Lions? Video: youtu.be/mYqhcSkojt0 Audio: linktr.ee/thedppod

2 years ago, Manuel Neuer retired from the German National Team. Now, he's headed to the #WorldCup. What will this do to the locker room of a team that has planned for two years without him? Video: youtu.be/MyMxS2oPFfI Audio: linktr.ee/thedppod

Pochettino has called in 7 players capable of playing CB, with only 4 comfortable holding mids for the #USMNT's home run at the #WorldCup 4D chess, or are we doomed for an early exit marred by injuries and suspensions? Video: youtu.be/MyMxS2oPFfI Audio: linktr.ee/thedppod

After almost 3 years away from the Brazilian NT, Neymar is going to the #WorldCup A few players must feel hurt to miss out on the call up after strong club campaigns. Was it right to add Neymar for 2026? Video: youtu.be/BoFJG3Fd2mw Audio: linktr.ee/thedppod

Bayern Munich have issued the warning to #CanMNT. They decide if Alphonso Davies plays in the World Cup, not Canada. On how this decision could hurt the #WorldCup hopes of the Canadians and the image of the German champions Video: youtu.be/7Cet9TO_CEE Audio: linktr.ee/thedppod

#WorldCup Group A pits the co hosts Mexico up against some tough opponents, including two European sides, one of which came from the playoffs. Will the extra games help Czechia gain cohesion, or hurt them in the long run? Video: youtu.be/Wbzo3Hsjo0Q Audio: linktr.ee/thedppod

Have you seen The Ultimate World Cup Preview Part 2 yet? We preview groups G-L of the 2026 #WorldCup, including... Were #SDFC right to turn down Manu Duah's Ghana call up? All that and more on our preview! Video: youtu.be/4wOgwkEb6is Audio: linktr.ee/thedppod

Have you seen The Ultimate 2026 World Cup Preview yet?! We took a look at EVERY #WorldCup team in groups A-F, including... Is Morocco in for a slump after their coach quit 2 months before the torunament? Video: youtu.be/UkvmO_Tuwn4 Audio: linktr.ee/thedppod

Tyler Adams may not be #USMNT's best player, but he might be their most important Our thoughts on why his health and availability may be the most important part of the US' success this summer Video: youtu.be/NnzSzde3POo Audio: linktr.ee/thedppod

Has Matt Turner shown enough to earn the #USMNT #1 shirt back just ahead of the World Cup? Based on his #MLS form, it may not be totally out of the question... Video: youtu.be/NnzSzde3POo Audio: linktr.ee/thedppod

Have you seen Episode 466 yet? #MLS History retold is back, covering the #DOOP Candy Gate scandal of 2011! A satirical story of a candy bar leads to a much bigger discussion about soccer coverage in America. A scene only MLS can bring you! Video: youtu.be/IffN0vFpZqc Audio: linktr.ee/thedppod

How important is Antonee Robinson to the #USMNT's chances this summer? He isn't just the best LWB on the team. He's the best player on his day, and needs to continue to be if the US wants to go on a run Video: youtu.be/NnzSzde3POo Audio: linktr.ee/thedppod

#RSL's Zavier Gozo has been absolutely lighting it up in #MLS. Has his form deserved a late call up to the #USMNT for the World Cup? We think he does and Poch should too. Video: youtu.be/NnzSzde3POo Audio: linktr.ee/thedppod

Spending is the undeniable barrier holding #MLS back In the next 10 years, will we see it make a big change? We think its more likely than not! Video: youtu.be/ZgCmcQ0__48 Audio: linktr.ee/thedppod

Have you seen Episode 465 yet? We gave our #USMNT positional depth chart and predicted the 26 man roster! Does Julian Hall deserve a spot on the plane? We debate it...heavily Video: youtu.be/NnzSzde3POo Audio: linktr.ee/thedppod

The Apple TV deal has had its ups and downs for #MLS over the last few years. In the next decade, will we see a move to a more popular network to host their games? With the rumors of a new commissioner, it may happen! Video: youtu.be/ZgCmcQ0__48 Audio: linktr.ee/thedppod

#MNUFC signed James Rodriguez 3 months ago. Since then, he's played 5 times for 130 minutes, and now he is off the roster for good. Was this a waste of time for all involved, or a mutually beneficial agreement for all parties? Video: youtu.be/a6VWh_JB6Jw Audio: linktr.ee/thedppod

Pro Rel is the topic on everyone's mind. Within the next 10 years, will we see #MLS make a move to the global set up? Don't hold your breath, it may be farther away than you think. Video: youtu.be/ZgCmcQ0__48 Audio: linktr.ee/thedppod

#CF97 are rumored to be after Robert Lewandowski's signature. It would take a lot, and their star striker may be on the move to do it. Is it a good plan, or is this Giroud 2.0? Video: youtu.be/b5gV3EJtYPI Audio: linktr.ee/thedppod

College soccer has been rumored to be trying to leave the NCAA in the coming years. Could #MLS make a move to bring these teams into their academy set ups? It would be audacious, but it just might work! Video: youtu.be/ZgCmcQ0__48 Audio: linktr.ee/thedppod

#InterMiamiCF are STILL winless in their new stadium. They can't hold a lead to save their lives. And their coach is asking reporters not to talk bad about #Messi in the press. Are they the least likeable team in the league? Video: youtu.be/ybW_NkfuHEA Audio: linktr.ee/thedppod

#MLS has already said expansion is slowing, if not done completely. Would they turn to a luxury tax to keep the money flowing? It isn't the craziest idea in the world, as other sports have done it! Video: youtu.be/ZgCmcQ0__48 Audio: linktr.ee/thedppod

Within the next 10 years, will #MLS make a step up in quality such that they will be real competitors in the Club World Cup? We think it is a real possibility, especially if some of our other predictions happen as well! Video: youtu.be/ZgCmcQ0__48 Audio: linktr.ee/thedppod

Have you seen Episode 464 yet? We chat about the biggest #MLS news stories of the week, including... Why is #InterMiamiCF so mentally weak at their home stadium? Video: youtu.be/6mDqL30YiwA Audio: linktr.ee/thedppod

#MLS has been mulling this idea for a while, but in 10 years time, could we finally see them make the jump to Copa Libertadores?? We think it may happen, and Leagues Cup would be killed as a result. Video: youtu.be/ZgCmcQ0__48 Audio: linktr.ee/thedppod

Have you seen Episode 463 yet? We made our predictions on what #MLS will look like in 10 years! Will we see Pro Rel in MLS in the next decade? Or is a USL/MLS Merger more likely?! Check out the full episode below for all our predictions! Video: youtu.be/ZgCmcQ0__48 Audio: linktr.ee/thedppod

2 years ago, #LAFC purchased a majority stake in Grasshopper FC. They have been in a relegation battle ever since, and the fans have had enough Is it time to try and do away with the multi club ownership model? Video: youtu.be/c9brEpDJfR0 Audio: linktr.ee/thedppod

#MLSNP has signed on with KKR to help set their 2nd teams up with independent identities. It feels very much like a Minor League Baseball route, but is that such a bad thing? Video: youtu.be/14_tKkOYtrc Audio: linktr.ee/thedppod

Have you seen episode 462 yet? We cover a moment in #MLS history that will never be forgotten, when #DCUnited GK Bill Hamid had to face 3 PKs in a row for leaving his line early, which he was not thrilled about! Video: youtu.be/kICqDVLs0ZY Audio: linktr.ee/thedppod

A real bid for the sale of #VWFC has been made, with the plans to move them to Las Vegas. Is there a silver lining we can take from past relocation stories in #MLS? Probably not, but positive thoughts are good thoughts Video: youtu.be/c9brEpDJfR0 Audio: linktr.ee/thedppod

Have you seen E461 yet? We cover the biggest #MLS news stories of the week, including... Why the relocation news of #VWFC hurts even worse the more you think about it. Check it out if you haven't already! Video: youtu.be/KPxO8caD0ZA Audio: linktr.ee/thedppod

Is it time to worry about #AustinFC? 9 games into the year, and their joint leading scorer is a CB. There may be some big problems to address in the Lonestar State... Video: youtu.be/NOkDCGGI0jM Audio: linktr.ee/thedppod

How good has Julian Hall been for #RBNY? Without him, they might be in a very bad place, but has his performance earned a shout to the #USMNT?? Video: youtu.be/NOkDCGGI0jM Audio: linktr.ee/thedppod

#CF97 are off to a solid start, thanks to a decent run of form from young GK Chris Brady. Has his performance thus far earned him a shot at the #USMNT GK1 role at the World Cup?? Video: youtu.be/NOkDCGGI0jM Audio: linktr.ee/thedppod

#Quakes74 are getting all the eye balls in #MLS right now, but more people need to be talking about #RSL. They're young, they're fun, and they're going to be a problem for the rest of the year! Video: youtu.be/NOkDCGGI0jM Audio: linktr.ee/thedppod

Have you seen Episode 460 yet? #MLS History Retold returns with a big episode for both #RCTID and #DOOP supporters! #CF97 fans, you might want to stay away from this one! Video: youtu.be/YAMBqY2vKKc Audio: linktr.ee/thedppod

#NERevs sit high in the Easter Conference standings after 1/4th of the season. Are they for real in #MLS this year, or will they fade away? Video: youtu.be/NOkDCGGI0jM Audio: linktr.ee/thedppod

It was always assumed #MLS Eastern Conference was the dominant force in the league. Through 25% of the season, has the Western Conference changed that narrative? East vs West, who reigns supreme? Video: youtu.be/NOkDCGGI0jM Audio: linktr.ee/thedppod

Have you seen Episode 459 yet? We give our thoughts on the first 25% of the #MLS season, and wax poetically about Bruce Arena's work at #Quakes74 Check it out if you haven't already! Video: youtu.be/NOkDCGGI0jM Audio: linktr.ee/thedppod

#CFMTL have, for the second time in 2 years, sacked their coach before the season hit double digit games. Will the pain ever end for MTL fans? Will it ever get any better?? Video: youtu.be/F3YxKt7qwnE Audio: linktr.ee/thedppod

2 months ahead of the 2026 World Cup, #USSoccer Technical Director Matt Crocker has left for Saudi Arabia. While it may not impact the tournament in June, US Soccer MUST get the next steps right! Video: youtu.be/3c8Zq2YpDYQ Audio: linktr.ee/thedppod

It's officially the best part of the season. Mid week #MLS is here! Hockey team is out, baseball team sucks, don't care about basketball, NFL not playing. Locking in for #RBNY 😤😤

Have you seen Episode 458 yet?! We talk about some big departures in the world of #MLS and #USMNT, including... What really caused Javier Mascherano to leave #InterMiamiCF, and is there a deeper problem at the club?? Video: youtu.be/0psxiBZYxZ0 Audio: linktr.ee/thedppod

RBNY's 2023 U15 MLS Next Cup was FULL of talent, including this week's guest Paul Sokoloff! In his mind, they were meant to win every game, even when losing with 2 mins to go Video: youtu.be/bAoMrhNVWkg Audio: linktr.ee/thedppod #RBNY #MLSNP

RBNY2's Paul Sokoloff is keeping his focus in the short term and taking his career one day at a time! We chat about his goals and so much more on our Pathway to Pro Episode! Video: youtu.be/bAoMrhNVWkg Audio: linktr.ee/thedppod #RBNY #MLSNP

During our sit down with RBNY2's Paul Sokoloff, we asked him about what it was like to be chosen as a captain for the #USYNT. It wasn't just special because of the moment, but because he was chosen by his teammates to do it! Video: youtu.be/bAoMrhNVWkg Audio: linktr.ee/thedppod #RBNY #MLSNP

Pat Agyemang took a big risk, did everything right, worked his way into the #USMNT and now will have to watch the tournament from home. Heartbreaking for the lad, but Poch now must decide who the next man up is. We give our thoughts. Video: youtu.be/WAZ-tYVsG0Q Audio: linktr.ee/thedppod

This week, we sat down with RBNY 2's Paul Sokoloff to chat about his pathway to #MLSNP. When asked about his playstyle, #RBNY fans can be excited that he likes to be in amongst the goals any chance he gets! Be sure to check it out below! Video: youtu.be/bAoMrhNVWkg Audio: linktr.ee/thedppod

#Rapids96 have tested the waters on a club rebrand, announcing the club will update their badge While some on social media have claimed no history can be built with changing identity, we think a badge change is too common to fuss over. Video: youtu.be/IxoTYLJpXwA Audio: linktr.ee/thedppod

Have you seen Episode 457 yet? We sat down with Paul Sokoloff from NYRBII to chat about his mentality and how it allows him to get to where he wants to be in the beautiful game! Be sure to check it out if you haven't already! Video: youtu.be/bAoMrhNVWkg Audio: linktr.ee/thedppod #RBNY #MLSNP

#AllforCincy are approaching Neymar to see if he wants to join their club. With the money they will be investing, can it be put to better use on other players? We discuss in this week's episode! Video: youtu.be/LWrIj2Yu7C0 Audio: linktr.ee/thedppod

Have you seen Episode 456 yet? We chat about the biggest #MLS news stories of the week including... Is Neymar coming to #AllforCincy even an idea worth discussing? Be sure to check it out if you haven't already! Video: youtu.be/OApVU8fyYiE Audio: linktr.ee/thedppod

Of all the bubble players on the field for #USMNT this past camp, it seemed to be Aidan Morris who was the one to miss his chance to impress the boss. Our thoughts on who rose and lowered their stock this window Video: youtu.be/Dda47Z9WQlQ Audio: linktr.ee/thedppod

Pochettino's line up choices in both friendlies were head scratching. But what's worse is how unmotivated some players still seem to be. With 2 months before the World Cup, does he have what it takes to motivate the group to success? Video: youtu.be/Dda47Z9WQlQ Audio: linktr.ee/thedppod

The #USMNT lineup choice vs Belgium was...interesting to say the least. Does Tim Weah actually provide value as a true RB? Or Max Arfsten as a true LB in a back 4? We discuss that and more on this week's episode! Video: youtu.be/Dda47Z9WQlQ Audio: linktr.ee/thedppod

#MLS History Retold is back! This week, we're diving into the mysterious case of mistaken identity at #NERevs camp. How Michael Augustine was a Revs player for 4 months, without ever speaking to their recruitment staff! Video: youtu.be/-m4vHUVc5-w Audio: linktr.ee/thedppod

In today's social media age journalist who ask the hard questions and provide opposing views are needed more than ever Franco Panizo's battle with #Messi bots who only care about positive coverage of their favorite player, highlights just this Video: youtu.be/Dda47Z9WQlQ Audio: linktr.ee/thedppod

As we wrap up the #USMNT March friendlies, one thing still stands out each time we play. Does Poch have any idea what to do with this team? His 2nd half shape change against Portugal suggests he's still trying to figure it all out. Video: youtu.be/Dda47Z9WQlQ Audio: linktr.ee/thedppod

Episode 454 is LIVE! The boys are back together again going through our thoughts and reactions to the #USMNT March friendlies. Two not so good losses and 4 different styles of play. Does Poch know what he's doing? Video: youtu.be/Dda47Z9WQlQ Audio: linktr.ee/thedppod

#VWFC fans, this one is for you! On today's #MLS History Retold story, we are going back to happier times in the PNW. Actually, we're taking it all the way back to the first ever match at Empire and the night of the flying ponchos! Video: youtu.be/eW5lmOiyxVU Audio: youtu.be/eW5lmOiyxVU

#NERevs Peyton Miler has quite the future ahead of him in this game, which makes pulling his /25 in a #MLS Chrome hangar box all the more exciting! Check out the full video on YouTube! youtu.be/KPlYzxtsT-o