:format(webp)/cdn.vox-cdn.com/uploads/chorus_image/image/58219693/usa_today_9985386.0.jpg)
Seattle
The Tukwila police department have been in pursuit of an escaped pig named Monty for several days. According to their Facebook updates on the dramatic chase, Monty is “ungodly fast” and a police representative went on the radio this morning to discuss the case.
The Sounders have started a series of ‘Best of 2017’ videos for individual players, and we’re not complaining. Here’s Clint Dempsey’s from earlier in the week, as well.
Major League Soccer
Goalkeepers’ salaries are shrinking as a proportion of total cap space (plus TAM) available to MLS clubs. Is it because they’re ‘keepers, or because they are mostly American players?
Both Justin Meram and Ola Kamara are reportedly asking for transfers from Columbus Crew SC this winter. Kamara has been linked to the LA Galaxy, and Meram is looking for a “new challenge.” Even at 29, many clubs in MLS will surely give him a look.
United States
Jonathan Gonzalez has represented the US since his debut at the U14 level, but the 18-year-old dual citizen has also drawn interest from the Mexican national team. He has been in Monterrey’s midfield for several years, but US fans have to hope he continues to pursue his international career north of the border.
While all the attention has been on the NASL’s court battle for survival, the USL is still waiting on its own verdict from US Soccer about Division II status.
Soccer America has an interview with US Soccer Coaches CEO Lynn Berling-Manuel, where she discusses how coaching needs to change in the US and how missing out on the World Cup might help spur some of that change.
Here’s Stars and Stripes FC’s take on the ongoing drama involving Eric Wynalda’s US Soccer presidential bid, Merrit Paulson, and Ricardo Silva.
World
Phillippe Coutinho from Liverpool to Barcelona. Even by transfer drama standards, this has been a complicated story. It now seems a deal is imminent, perhaps because Jurgen Klopp has been given the final say on Liverpool’s side. Here’s a rundown on the latest.