John Anthony Brooks set a record today. Well, he didn’t, but his transfer from Hertha Berlin to Wolfsburg did, by costing Wolfsburg €20 million, or just over $22 million - a record for an American player.
In the 2015/16 season - the one before the bananapants TV deal kicked in - Premier League clubs reported an aggregate income of £3.65 billion. Manchester United accounted for £515 million of that.
Looked at another way, the top European clubs are valued at just about €30 billion. English clubs comprise six of the top ten. Just like in this year’s Premier League, Arsenal finished fifth.
At least one English club fears the effect that Brexit will have on the talent market for English soccer, at least on the youth end of the spectrum.
While Arsenal fans wonder whether Szcz is coming back to London next season, Barcelona fans welcomed the news that Marc-Andre ter Stegen signed an extension with the club that theoretically keeps him there until 2022.
Arsenal legend Patrick Vieira has done a pretty solid job coaching The MLS League’s NYCFC. Other clubs are noticing, particularly Saint-Etienne, who have reportedly reached out to Vieira to gauge his interest.
The US Open Cup is the US’ version of the FA Cup. Any professional or amateur team can enter. This year’s sentimental favorite? Christos FC, a team of players who “never train”, sponsored by a Baltimore liquor store, who are one game away from a matchup against MLS’ DC United.