Highlights from this week’s show.

Coach Gough and Justin are back! The guys look at the past 3 losses for FC Cincinnati: 5-1 at Inter Miami, 6-3 at home to Nashville, and 2-0 at Philadelphia Union, and ask “What lessons can we learn from these losses?”

They ask the question, who on the team is still competing, and who isn’t showing the urgency necessary? They give Caleb Stanko some compliments, and then talk about why he still is a liability.

Then, as always, they get to your questions in the mailbag!

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The post 3 Losses, Many Lessons: Who is Still Competing for FC Cincinnati? appeared first on Cincinnati Soccer Talk.

“Our search for our next general manager was extensive,” said FC Cincinnati president Jeff Berding in the club’s press release. “Our new GM was going to be someone who knew what was required to win in Major League Soccer, experience that was non-negotiable. Delivering on that requirement, we are delighted to have found the best person for the job.”

“Chris’ experience in Major League Soccer and his track record of success are impressive,” said managing owner and CEO Carl H. Lindner III. “His ambitious, energetic character is emblematic of the type of leader we sought to bring in. We are thrilled to have him lead our soccer organization, and we are confident that he will fulfill our goals, and help make Cincinnati a championship city.”

The move was first reported by Sam Stejskal and Paul Tenorio of the Athletic in a story mentioning the two parties were negotiating toward a contract. On Thursday afternoon, The Post Cincinnati reported that the deal was completed.

Albright, 42, joined the front office of Philadelphia after a 15-year playing career in Major League Soccer. The Philadelphia-native has been highly regarded in MLS circles including rave reviews of his recruitment of players.

“It’s an honor to be the general manager of FC Cincinnati,” said Albright in the release. “This is a club with incredible supporters, top-of-the-league facilities and resources, and a hunger for success. I would like to thank Carl [H. Lindner III], Meg Whitman and the ownership, as well as Jeff and everyone who has trusted me to lead this club to achieve the goals we have set. I am committed to bringing all of my knowledge and experience to the table to make FC Cincinnati a championship club. I look forward to meeting the team, the staff and all of the fans, and I can’t wait to get started.”

Beginning in 2014 Albright began to oversee player recruitment under former Union CEO Nick Sakiewicz. Following his dismissal, Albright was in charge of Philly’s domestic acquisitions and the academy under current US Soccer sporting director Ernie Stewart. The former right back’s career began to really take off in 2018 when Ernst Tanner was installed as the Union’s new sporting director.

According to a piece in The Athletic, one head coach deemed that Albright operates in “a class of his own” among organizational seconds-in-command. That same article also stated under Albright’s guidance, Philadelphia has been MLS’s top club in terms of spend efficiency (point per dollar) for three seasons running, according to a Union spokesperson.

Philadelphia made the playoffs in four of Albright’s seven full seasons. In what would be a career highlight, the Union won the 2020 MLS Supporters Shield in a season which saw the club also make the MLS is Back tournament semi-finals.

“Chris has been extremely focused and efficient in accomplishing the club’s goals and has set the standard high when it comes to securing players and managing the salary cap,” said Sporting Director, Ernst Tanner in the Union’s release. “He has an incredible grasp of the MLS roster rules and regulations that he introduced me to when I first arrived. I’m grateful for our collaboration over the last couple of seasons and wish him the best in Cincinnati.”

Key additions added in Philly under Albright include Alejandro Bedoya, Jamiro Monteiro, Jose Martinez, Ilsinho and Bořek Dočkal. Their success is impressive as the Union as 25th of 27 teams in salary spent in 2021. The also are not know for high transfer fees as their club-record $2 million transfer to make Monteiro’s loan a permanent deal ranks well below the deals for Luciano Acosta, Isaac Atanga and Brenner.

Prior to his time in management, Albright had an outstanding professional career which included time with DC United, LA Galaxy, New England Revolution, New York Red Bulls and finally with the Union. The forward turned right back would go on to win three MLS Cups, one Supporters Shield and one US Open Cup. In 2005 Albright was named to the MLS Best XI while with the Galaxy.

He experienced international success playing for the US men’s national team including 22 caps and being named to the 2006 FIFA World Cup squad.

Albright will have a tough hill to climb as he will need to account for many roster budget constraints over the next year. The fanbase will expect improvement upon the past three seasons, yet he will have to deal with expensive cap hits including Kamohelo Mokojko, Yuya Kubo, Allan Cruz and potentially soon-to-be senior roster budget player Kenneth Vermeer.

The young GM will also need to encourage key pieces like youngsters Alvaro Barreal and Gustavo Vallecilla to stay “bought-in”. Albright will have seven games to evaluate the group including interim coach Tyrone Marshall. Will Marshall do enough to earn the head coaching spot or will Albright bring in current Union assistant coach Pat Noonan as the clubs new manager?

Stejskal and Tenorio also reported that Albright was expected to add Union assistant technical director Kyle McCarthy to his front office in Cincinnati.

While Cincinnati Soccer Talk can confirm through league sources that the position was offered to Seattle Sounders sporting director Craig Waibel last week, fans shouldn’t be discouraged with the results of the search. Albright has significantly more league experience than his predecessor and is already appearing to execute his plan.

Early on in his career in Philly, Albright did have some failures, but has had more successes recently. Fans would hope that ownership will allow Albright to make a couple big splashes this season with one DP spot likely open. There must be patience shown as the first-time GM will need to recalibrate the roster and likely will have some tough contracts to get rid of or sit on in 2022.

While the temptation to look ahead for incoming players will be great for FCC fans, Albright does have one role he must fill. Head Coach. Hopefully his connections will allow him to lure an attractive option to provide stability in a role that has been a revolving door.

The post Philadelphia Union’s Chris Albright named FC Cincinnati GM appeared first on Cincinnati Soccer Talk.

That there are many great names available or could become available is some realistic scenario playing out as we speak. Does this list excite you? Give us your thoughts at Feedback@CincinnatiSoccerTalk.com.

Likelihood Index:

10-8: Good fit for both club and exec. Should be someone the club interviews.
7-6: Good fit for club and or exec. If interested, this should be someone who is interviewed
5-4: Will get an interview if interested, but that is a big IF.
3-1: Highly unlikely, but could you imagine?
0: You don’t come here for zeroes.

Second in Command – More likely

Brian Bliss – chicagofirefc.com

Brian Bliss: Technical director and VP of player personnel — Sporting Kansas City

Success — Two Supporters’ Shields (2008, 2009) and the 2008 MLS Cup with the Columbus Crew, 2017 Lamar Hunt U.S. Open Cup champion and the Western Conference regular-season top finisher in 2018 and 2020. First place in the Western Conference in 2021.

Transfer/roster budget record — Bliss has always been associated with mid-to-low spending clubs with the KC Wizards, Columbus, Chicago and the current version of Kansas City. While under Peter Vermes, Bliss oversees SKC’s player personnel matters while also managing the salary cap, negotiating contracts, holding a scouting role and assisting in player development across Sporting’s professional pathway. Bliss was also instrumental in the signing of designated player Alan Pulido.

Bio — Bliss earned 33 caps for the United States men’s national team over 11 years. As a defender, Bliss played in the 1988 Olympics and the 1990 FIFA World Cup. Bliss has had several senior executive positions including being the technical director of the Columbus Crew (2008-13) and the technical director of the Chicago Fire (2014-15) prior to SKC. Bliss was also an assistant coach in MLS and was the interim head coach of both Columbus and Chicago.

Likelihood –– 9 of 10. Bliss should be on FCC’s list. He should be on any club’s list for that matter. If Bliss wants to return to the big chair, this could be an exceptional opportunity for both club and leader. He brings many skillsets to the position that is badly needed and would be a golazo of a hire.

Will Kuntz – datanyze.com

Will Kuntz: Senior VP of soccer opps and assistant general manager — Los Angeles FC

Success – LAFC has made the playoffs in each of its three seasons 2018 (third), 2019 (first, MLS Cup semifinals) and 2020 (seventh).

Transfer/Roster Budget Record — Kuntz is part of a management team that has signed some of the highest-profile players in MLS including Diego Rossi and Carlos Vela. LAFC has also had success down roster inking Canadian Mark-Anthony Kaye from Louisville City and Eduard Atuesta. LAFC has been towards the top of league spending, ranking sixth this season. It has struggled with domestic signings lately but did succeed early in its tenure with players like Walker Zimmerman, Triston Blackmon and Jordan Harvey.

Bio — Kuntz works closely with Co-President and general manager John Thorrington in managing and assembling LAFC’s roster of players, coordinating the club’s scouting and data analytics departments and managing the salary budget. A member of the New York Yankees front office for 10 years, Kuntz transitioned to soccer as the director of player relations at MLS headquarters.

Likelihood –– 7 of 10. I think this boils down to whether Kuntz is interested. His resume and experience point to him being ready, and the club’s vision seems to be in step with Kuntz’s career path. Another great option should both parties be in sync.

Curt Onalfo: Technical director — New England Revolution

Success —  MLS Cup as an assistant coach for LA Galaxy in 2011, 2012 and 2014. Western Conference semifinal in 2007 as head coach of the KC Wizards. New England has made the playoffs in each of the past two seasons — seventh in 2019 and eighth with a trip to the MLS Cup semifinals in 2020. New England is first place in the Eastern Conference with 40 points (2.11 ppg).

Transfer/roster budget record — Onalfo has been a part of many roster builds over his time as an assistant (LA) and as a head coach (KC Wizards, DC United and the LA Galaxy). In New England, Onalfo has been tasked with developing the academy and reserve pipeline with New England II. He has worked with Bruce Arena to bring in quality players to the Revs including Carles Gil, Adam Buksa and Gustavo Bou. The Revs rank near the middle of the pack in roster spending this season, which has increased significantly since the arrival of Arena and Onalfo.

Bio — Arena’s right-hand man, Onalfo has served in various roles in MLS and with U.S. Soccer. Highly thought of in most football circles, the Sao Paulo native has overseen the development of many youth setups, including the Galaxy’s Los Dos program. The downside to Onalfo is his tenure in his latest stops. A top-notch assistant, Onalfo has floundered in short stops as the leader in KC, D.C. and LA. He does have many contacts around the game in the U.S. which could help recruit additional quality support staff.

Likelihood –– 5 of 10. You should respect what Onalfo has done in his career, but at this point I am not sure giving him a fourth opportunity to lead a club would be in FC Cincinnati’s best interest. I think there are worse options out there but also significantly better. Can he apply what he has learned from Arena in his most recent stop to propel FCC to success?

Ally Mackay: Assistant general manager — Nashville SC

Success – Seventh place in 2020 inaugural season (MLS Cup semifinal), currently fifth place in 2021.

Transfer/roster budget record — Nashville SC was near the middle of league spending prior to the arrival of DP Ake Loba. Nashville has set the bar for low-spending expansion sides, spending on MLS experience over sell-on potential. The shrewd moves for Walker Zimmerman and Dax McCarty help provide a solid foundation for Nashville in 2020. DP Hany Muhktar has shown to be a very good playmaker in MLS with Mackay helping to pull many of the right levers for NSC.

Bio — Mackay was an agent for the Stellar Group prior to Nashville SC. Based in London, Stellar is one of the largest sports agencies in the world, representing over 200 soccer players worldwide, and has offices in countries around the globe. Mackay utilizde those connections to assist Jacobs in building Nashville’s inaugural MLS roster in 2020.

Likelihood — 4 of 10. Mackay is relatively new at management in MLS, but his stock has to be high due to the success of Nashville. I would think he is to the point where he could be interviewed, but possibly a quality backup option at this point in his career. Very impressed so far.

Craig Waibel – soundersfc.com

Craig Waibel: Senior vice president of soccer and sporting director — Seattle Sounders

Success – Real Salt Lake reached the postseason in three of his four seasons as GM 2016 (sixth), 2018 (sixth) and 2019 (third).

Transfer/roster budget record — Waibel was on the cutting edge of bringing along youth players into MLS. During his tenure, academy players featured over 10,000 minutes of play for RSL in 2018 and 2019. Some of these players, including Corey Baird, Justen Glad, Sebastian Saucedo and Aaron Herrera, have become great professionals. Waibel did have some decent international signings along the way, including Albert Rusnak, Jefferson Savarino and Damir Kreilach.

Bio — First off, putting him in the second in command group feels a bit wrong for the former RSL GM. A large reason why he is now in Seattle in a secondary role is due to the environment around embattled RSL owner Dell Loy Hansen. Waibel was named technical director at RSL in 2015 and took over as GM following Garth Lagerwey’s departure to Seattle Sounders FC. Waibel served in that role through the 2019 MLS season.

Likelihood — 1 of 10. While I think Waibel might be the most qualified candidate listed on here next to Vermes, he just began back with Seattle replacing Chris Henderson, who left to go to Miami. If FCC can somehow convince Waibel to come to Cincinnati, it would be a dream hire.

Current GM – Possible given the right situation

Elliot Fall – RSL.com

Elliot Fall: General manager — Real Salt Lake

Success — Third place Western Conference finish in 2019 as assistant GM under Craig Waibel. Currently in eighth place.

Transfer/roster budget record — After being named as the youngest GM in MLS history in December 2019, Fall was tasked with rebuilding an aged RSL roster. Fall had to retool by adding young DP Jeizon Ramírez, former USMNT forwards Bobby Wood and Rubio Rubin, and international attacker Jonathan Menéndez. He also relied on MLS veterans such as Justin Meram along with a host of academy and Real Monarchs players.

Bio — Fall began as an intern at RSL but learned under top MLS execs such as Lagerwey and Waibel. He assumed the GM role after the departure of Waibel and had been working to make RSL a quality side under the cloud of the sale of the club from Dell Loy Hansen. He has lured some decent names to the club and has played a large part in the development of the its academy and USL side.

Likelihood — 4 of 10. I am concerned that he is not the “flashy” signing that FCC might want to make. He does not have a playing pedigree of some candidates but could be a great GM or second man in charge should the club go the route of a high-level head coach or VP. His job could be up in the air due to the ownership change, so that could make it more likely that he is looking around for other opportunities.

André Zanotta: Technical director — FC Dallas

Success –– Playoff appearances for FC Dallas in 2019 (seventh) and 2020 (sixth). Currently ninth in the Western Conference. Won the 2017 Copa Libertadores in 2017, Recopa Sudamericana in 2018 and Campeonato Gaúcho in 2018 at Grêmio. Under Zanotta’s leadership, Grêmio reached the final of the FIFA Club World Cup in 2017.

Transfer/roster budget record — Zanotta oversees a budget that ranks in the middle to bottom half of MLS. His duty has been to mix a healthy amount of homegrown players around MLS and international veterans in an effort to sell players. He has done an outstanding job of continuing the Dallas development pipeline, ensuring inflows of cash for prospects Tanner Tessmann, Reggie Cannon, Bryan Reynolds, Chris Richards and others.

Bio — Zanotta is an international “GM” that was sporting director of Santos FC and Grêmio. At Santos he was instrumental in the sale of Brazilian superstar Neymar from Santos to FC Barcelona in 2013. Zanotta has signed quality players while at Dallas including Bressan and Bryan Acosta while balancing playing time for young Dallas prospects. He has recently relied more on the international market to help add to the roster and continue the development and productivity of youngsters like Ricardo Pepi.

Likelihood –– 3 of 10. I could see FC Cincinnati as being a project of interest to Zanotta. He has the international contacts the club liked in Nijkamp but also learned the intricacies of the league in Dallas. Increased spending potential in Cincinnati could make it worth considering.

Matt Jordan: Senior vice president/general manager — Houston Dynamo

Success — Fourth in 2017. Never has finished higher than eighth nor made the playoffs in any other season as GM. Eleventh place on 1.00 ppg this season. Has the experience but not the winning track record.

Transfer/roster budget record — Houston is in the bottom five of salary spending for 2021. Jordan has done fairly well with big signings including starlet Mauro Manotas, Matias Vera, Demarcus Beasley and Alberth Elis. He orchestrated the trade for Tim Parker this year and signed USL standout Tyler Pasher who has been very good this season. His addition of Darwin Quintero could be questioned however.

Bio — Jordan joined the Dynamo as their first GM following the departure of Dom Kinnear. Prior to Houston, Jordan was the technical director of the Montreal Impact for four seasons. Jordan has been hampered by an ownership group that hasn’t been willing to spend. The new ownership group could decide to replace Jordan in the winter, possibly making him more interested in FC Cincinnati. His three head coach hires of Owen Coyle, Wilmer Cabrera and Tab Ramos have underperformed.

Likelihood –– 2 of 10. Another situation like Fall. Will the new ownership group continue or bring in its own candidate? I think Jordan could be an interesting candidate especially with his recent track record of signings. He has missed on his fair share, so his “winning-ness” will be heavily scrutinized. Not sure if his pattern of mediocrity would be good enough to be a top-tier candidate.

Coach as GM – If only this were the Winter window

Peter Vermes: Manager and sporting director — Sporting KC

Success — Won the 2012, 2015 and 2017 Lamar Hunt U.S. Open Cup and the 2013 MLS Cup. Western Conference regular-season top finisher in 2011, 2012, 2018 and 2020. Named the 2019 MLS Sporting Executive of the year and one of the top five winningest coaches in MLS.

Transfer/roster budget record — Sporting KC routinely ranks in the upper half or third in MLS roster budget spending. Vermes up until recently did not spend large sums in the international transfer market. His largest signing happened this past year by bringing in DP Alan Pulido from Guadalajara. He has a strong track record of identifying low-cost international signings while developing college draftees and youth players.

Bio –– Vermes was appointed as the technical director for the Kansas City Wizards in November 2006 and was named manager of the Wizards on Aug. 4, 2009. He is a former USMNT player and U.S. Soccer Hall of Fame inductee. He represents the top caliber of managers and heads of football in MLS.

Likelihood — 1 of 10. Sporting KC ranks at the top of the Western Conference. SKC has great facilities, youth development and a core of top-level MLS players. I would doubt that he would choose to leave an MLS Cup contender for FCC no matter how much the author of this story wants it to happen.

League Office – Wild cards

Lino DiCuollo: Former senior VP of competition and player relations — MLS headquarters

Success –– Limited. Helped chart new rules and MLS collective bargaining agreement while at MLS headquarters.

Transfer/roster budget record — This would be the first time DiCuollo would be in the front office of an MLS club but not his first time negotiating international contracts. A central figure behind the scenes since 2005 in the MLS player department, DiCuollo set roster and budget guidelines, managed transfers and approved contracts for MLS clubs.

Bio — Currently a Senior Advisor at the Kapital Football Group. DiCuollo was an influential member of the league office player department as the longtime assistant to Todd Durbin. According to the Athletic, DiCuollo was considered for a top position in Montreal’s front office before remaining with MLS to finalize the latest CBA.

Likelihood — 2 of 10. Does FCC want to take a risk with someone who has not managed multiple facets of an organization? A potentially great hire in terms of understanding the intricacies of MLS, is DiCuollo equipped with all the skills to be a GM?

Alecko Eskandarian: Director of player development — MLS headquarters

Success — 2004 MLS Cup MVP and champion as a player for D.C. United. NASL Soccer Bowl Champion as an assistant coach in 2013.

Transfer/roster budget record – Eskandarian has not been a member of an MLS front office outside of his season as the technical director of the Philadelphia Union academy. He has however been a part of one of the best non-MLS clubs in the history of the U.S. that saw quality players such as Marcos Senna and Alessandro Noselli and others.

Bio — Eskandarian has over 125 professional appearances as a player including one appearance for the USMNT. His time in management comes as an assistant coach for the New York Cosmos from 2013-17 and as the manager of their reserve squad in the NPSL in 2015-16. He has since moved to MLS headquarters, where he is currently the director of player development. Eskandarian has championed for player health and safety after a concussion ended his career.

Likelihood — 1 of 10. I understand that Eskandarian’s credentials do not equal the others, but he is a well-respected individual that could benefit from being the second in command to a head coach/GM or VP role. He would bring a solid name with MLS headquarters experience to a role at FC Cincinnati which I believe could extend to a successful run for FCC.

Other Names

Ned Grabavoy: Technical director — Portland Timbers

Meghan Cameron: Assistant director of player personnel — Sporting Kansas City

Luiz Muzzi: Executive vice president of soccer operations — Orlando City SC

Chris Albright: Technical director — Philadelphia Union

Jon Scheer: Director of scouting — Philadelphia Union

Bruno Acosta: Director of recruitment & scouting — San Jose Earthquakes

Jaap Stam: Head coach — FC Cincinnati

Pádraig Smith: Executive vice president and general manager – Colorado Rapids

The post The ‘long-short list’ of FC Cincinnati GM candidates appeared first on Cincinnati Soccer Talk.

In an interview with Pat Brennan of the Enquirer, Berding said MLS experience would be a priority. I believe after seeing the success of Nashville along with Nijkamp’s difficulty navigating the MLS budget process, that experience would be a sound bet to right the Orange & Blue ship.

Berding also mentioned in the article that FCC would “find the right person and we will do it as quickly as possible.” According to a source in the club, it is believed this will be a fast process that will allow the new general manager-type role to evaluate the current football staff and roster.

To be fair to Nijkamp, he had to build a football organization from very little. The Dutchman had a Herculean task of launching an academy, hiring numerous staff, outlining common operations, learning how to navigate a league with unique rules and rebuilding a roster effectively twice (once his fault, once not). He succeeded in some of those areas while failing massively in others. Credit to him, this is a significantly different job that he took on and one I believe should be attractive to many candidates.

Pillars

Berding mentioned several pillars of success for the organization during his press conference. I will co-opt his term to outline areas I believe can be used to evaluate general manager candidates.

Success on the field: No ifs, ands or buts, FCC just told every applicant that you must win and win fast. The applicants will all have to come from an organization that is currently winning or has been a “winner” for a large part of the last five-plus seasons. I do love how Nijkamp stressed how he was able to “stretch a buck” due to his time at PEC Zwolle, but let’s not act like they were consistently at the top of the table in the Eredivisie. FC Cincinnati needs a proven formula for success with this hire. We need a winner.

Transfer track record: I could even go about breaking this into two additional categories: Efficient Spend and Big Money Spend. To be blunt, this GM will have to make somewhere between two to four splash moves this winter window. That doesn’t necessarily mean only inflows. The GM will have to potentially move some high-dollar players to get flexibility back into the roster budget. A substantial successful transfer history or league knowledge of designated player negotiations, domestic signings and U-23 players must be shown.

Coaching and football operation staff hires: This was not necessarily mentioned by Berding due to his commitment and support of coach Jaap Stam on Friday, but I would make a substantial bet that there will be a new coach on the touchline next season. I want to see the track record of input on any coaching hires or diversity among jobs where the “head of football” worked with different coaches. I would prefer that a GM and a coach have some relationship prior to FCC. We have seen the opposite fail miserably in places such as Atlanta and Miami, where big-name coaches come in and immediately feud with the front office. Working with a diverse set of staff and tenure with those people leading to winning is a great formula to get quick results in a league based on parity.

League experience: As I mentioned above, this is a tough league to walk into without a large depth of knowledge. No doubt this will change over time as FC Cincinnati cultivates and develops an operational chart that assists the GM, but right now the club needs someone who can walk in and be an expert of the language that is MLS. While tenure is all well and good, I do think having knowledge of many different philosophies will make the next GM well-rounded. Does this person need to have worked at five MLS clubs? No. I’d be just as happy with a person who has worked in several international clubs but also has that depth of experience/time to know MLS. The downfall of Nijkamp was his MLS roster budget mechanism usage. The club can’t continue to overpay for average players and needs to have someone who can maximize the budget with an ownership group that is willing to be a top five spender.

Relationships: This person will need to bring in seasoned MLS staff, coaches and players if the club truly wants to turn this thing around. Having spent time with U.S. Soccer, the MLS league office or time as an MLS player or staff member will help convince people to join the FC Cincinnati project. Let’s face it, FCC has a bad rap out there in league circles and will need some reliable, quality people in-house to jump-start success. Look at Seattle. It is a who’s-who of successful pros and league vets. Many of the standard-bearers in MLS have diverse and well-known people leading them. The club needs someone who will convince the top coaches, staff members and future GMs to join Cincinnati.

Look in the mirror

FC Cincinnati must evaluate what type of club it wants to be in the future. Does FCC continue to spend big on the international market, will the academy system be the bread and butter, or will there be a hybrid model? Will FC Cincinnati target players with a decent track record in MLS such as Geoff Cameron and Luciano Acosta, or will it chose to spend a fortune every three or four years on the next Wunderkind like Brenner?

I do believe that the league is on a precipice of a fundamental shift. Having a solid academy will be important, but as the rate of spend climbs, so will the need to deal in the international market. Will this club try to succeed with flashy signings like Atlanta and Los Angeles FC, or will they look like Sporting Kansas City or Philadelphia mixing youth, league experience and proven international players?

GM organization ‘types’

Organizational charts in MLS clubs are unique. No two are alike, but there are some common organizational structure themes.

Coach as GM/technical director with a strong “underling”: This was a common organizational structure in the MLS 2.0 era but does still have some place in today’s game. Peter Vermes (Sporting Kansas City) and Bruce Arena (New England) stand out as successful current heads of football while being the coach. Outside of Gregg Berhalter in Columbus prior to his time with the U.S. men’s national team, this method of leadership is dying out. There is simply so much going on now for this role that should you allow your coach to be GM, you absolutely must have an ace second in command. Vermes is paired with Brian Bliss, while Arena has Curt Onalfo. Not saying that this can’t be done, but those who want the coach to ultimately call the first-team and clubs personnel shots need to understand that it takes a special person and second GM type to really be successful.

Strong GM: I would classify this is as what Nijkamp was. He was the de facto leader at FCC next to Berding. This type, along with the one below, can be very similar, and ultimately I hope they are. The club needs a strong head of soccer with a pattern of success but also someone who has relationships to bring in capable people with MLS experience underneath him. In this organization, there is a clear head where all departments (technical staff, roster-budget, academy, scouting, etc.) report directly to. Whether a strong GM appoints an assistant, ultimately they have their hands in every pot actively.

VP/president of soccer operations and a GM: I view this similar to the partnership Garth Lagerwey and Craig Waibel have in Seattle or Dave Kasper and Lucy Rushton in D.C. There is so much going on in MLS right now including the addition of a reserve-team league, MLS Next academy system, an influx of high-profile players and more. It’s almost too much for one person to handle. Is it better that one person focuses on the macro and the other the micro? There is something to be said for setting a consistent philosophy of one person in the organization, but as a growing club and one with huge aspirations, why not go with two experienced leaders who are on the same page.

This is also the pot where I could potentially see a candidate from outside of MLS. Take André Zanotta in Dallas as an example. He has vast South American experience at Gremio and Santos but is partnered with Marco Ferruzzi, who has been with the club since 2004. Would you be comfortable bringing in an international VP/technical director if that person commits to working with an experienced MLS club or league office executive? I believe one of the downfalls Nijkamp had was not bringing someone with more league experience into his leadership circle.

Candidate Pools

Coach as GM: As previously mentioned above, this to me is a long shot. Berding wants to get a GM in sooner than later, and I don’t see anyone, including the likes of Vermes leaving his team prior to the playoffs. The best case would have been this move back in the summer or fall of 2020, luring Berhalter away from the USMNT, but even that would have been a difficult ask. I would love Vermes. I just don’t see him leaving the first-place team in the Western Conference mid-season.

Current GM: Let’s face it, everyone wants Lagerwey, but he isn’t coming to the Queen City any time soon. I could see several current MLS GMs/”head of football” come to FC Cincinnati. There are many clubs that do not have the facilities, budget, support of ownership and growth potential of FC Cincinnati. Could a GM of a club in the bottom of league spending like Houston’s Matt Jordan or Philadelphia’s Ernst Tanner think FCC is a better fit for their future goals? What about Elliot Fall in Salt Lake, who might be replaced when new ownership is installed? Surely a person with his pedigree of youth development would be attractive. Could Zanotta be fed up with trying to focus on pure development and sales of players and utilize his connections abroad to buy players. There are attractive options here.

Second in command: FCC fans are clamoring for experience, and while these people are not the de facto leaders of their clubs, they certainly have a significant pull. Many of us might recognize the name of Brian Bliss. The former Chicago and Columbus technical director has worked with Vermes to make Sporting KC a juggernaut. Another attractive name and one suggested by Matt Doyle is Will Kuntz. The second in command at Los Angeles FC has splashed some serious cash on the transfer market along with success luring MLS veterans. Curt Onalfo has partnered with Arena to turn the Revolution into a contender. Is he ready to lead an entire organization? The elephant in the room is former RSL GM and now sporting director of Seattle Craig Waibel. This would certainly give Cincy the credibility we crave, but can the club lure him from one of the best clubs in North America. I think most of this group, along with others not mentioned, are ready to take over the reins of an aspiring club. The question is, will they have the skill to navigate a quick roster retool?

League office: This is always a tricky pathway. FC Cincinnati is truly in a salary budget mess for this upcoming window. What better than getting someone who helps write the rules in MLS? There have been successful GMs with this experience like Tim Bezbatchenko (Toronto FC and Columbus), but also some huge failures like Nelson Rodrigues (Chivas and Chicago). It is difficult to really pinpoint names at MLS headquarters, but one name that jumped out to me was Alecko Eskandarian. Is he ready for a GM job? I’m not 100% sure, but I think he could make for an outstanding second in command. He brings a wealth of playing experience and has relationships in and around MLS and the USMNT program. There are many competent professionals in the league office that would bring a wealth of knowledge from Day One and could help repair the project.

Other: I am sure there will be one name floated out there that is a pure head-scratcher to us supporters. Could FCC decide to install a Moneyball mentality and grab a roster budget guru as GM? Does Jürgen Klinsmann stick his head out in his yearly quest to remain relevant and say he is worthy of a task? Could Stam throw his hat into the ring? What about Berhalter’s brother Jay?  Heck, let’s poke our fingers in the eye of Columbus and sign Tim Bezbatchenko! I’m sure MLS headquarters or Sportsology may have a name or two in this pile, but I hope the club stays away from a “splash” move here.

I will be putting an additional piece together highlighting some of these names for further consideration. I do agree with Berding that FCC will have its pick of applicants. There are plenty of quality domestic options for Cincy, and the new GM needs to get started quickly to clean up another mess.

The post The first step in the hunt for FC Cincinnati’s new GM appeared first on Cincinnati Soccer Talk.

Highlights from this week’s show.

On this week’s podcast, Seubs is back in the hosting chair along with Bryan, Brad and Bill.

We offered up our best and worst from the past week as FC Cincinnati drew two matches and had one tiny little pitch invader.

It was announced late last week that FC Cincinnati and GM Gerard Nijkamp mutually agreed to part ways. We discuss the ramifications of this move now and what it means for Jaap Stam going forward.

Before his departure, Nijkamp did bring in two new players in Tyler Blackett and Florian Valot.

We wrapped up the show this week by answering some of your Twitter questions.

Support CST!

Want to help support Cincinnati Soccer Talk? Want to become an episode captain? Become a supporter today!

You can also help support the show by purchasing some shirts from our new T-shirt store! Head on over to cincinnatisoccertalk.com/shop.

Subscribe to Cincinnati Soccer Talk

Don’t forget you can now download and subscribe to Cincinnati Soccer Talk on iTunes today! The podcast can also be found on Stitcher Smart Radio now. We’re also available in the Google Play Store and NOW ON SPOTIFY!

As always we’d love your feedback about our podcast! You can email the show at feedback@cincinnatisoccertalk.com. We’d love for you to join us on our Facebook page as well! Like us at Facebook.com/CincinnatiSoccerTalk.

The show’s RSS feed is https://cincinnatisoccertalk.libsyn.com/rss

The post Nijkamp Departs FC Cincinnati appeared first on Cincinnati Soccer Talk.

The road will not be easy for the new general manager. In addition to the signings of midfielder Florian Valot and defender Tyler Blackett, Nijkamp brought in 14 players over the last year, not including draft picks or homegrown signings. The roster budget is near its max with the majority of impact positions (designated player, U22, targeted allocation money) already filled.

Looking ahead to the 2022 winter transfer window will be critical, as it will provide the first real opportunity for the new GM to add to the squad. I wanted to take a look at what opportunities may be available for the new leader.

Departures

After the season we are likely to see several players’ tenures come to an end in Orange & Blue. We are likely to see the exit of veterans Haris Medunjanin, Przemysław Tytoń, Edgar Castillo and Maikel van der Werff. Also likely is the departure of backup goalkeeper Cody Cropper and potentially Ben Lundt. That would leave the Senior Roster at 16/17 players depending on Kenneth Vermeer’s 2022 status, with seven of eight international spots filled if Calvin Harris receives a green card this offseason. 

Toss Ups

Other names on the chopping block could include Nick Hagglund, Brandon Vazquez, Caleb Stanko, Ben Mines and Zico Bailey. I tend to think Vazquez, Hagglund and Stanko will be retained as their budget charge and domestic status make them valuable pieces. No roster in MLS is perfect, and they all have the quality to contribute to the matchday roster. To me, Mines and Bailey are both up in the air. Neither has contributed much this season, but if they can retain their homegrown status on the supplemental roster, it makes sense to keep them around. If either has to be moved to a senior spot, I’d shake their hand and book an Uber to the airport.

Here is an early crack at the 2022 Senior roster with recommended changes.

Where to go from here?

At first look, FC Cincinnati has at least three open senior spots and likely an international spot or two depending on U.S. Green Cards. FC Cincinnati should pick up Gustavo Vallecilla’s purchase option this offseason and register him as a U-22 player, limiting his budget charge. The biggest issue the new GM will have is how to fit the large salaries of Kamohelo Mokotjo, Allan Cruz, Yuya Kubo and Geoff Cameron on the roster while still bringing in a new DP. That designated player would eat up $612,500 in cap space but could be bought down slightly below that with more general allocation money. If the four above players remain, FC Cincinnati has the room to bring in a new DP and potentially another senior roster signing (approx: $200k-$300k) to stay under the cap. With long term needs at right back, wing and defensive midfield, there isn’t much room to improve the squad unless the club uses their one off-season roster buy out.

The Elephant in the Room

The key to the rebuild next season will likely be the decision to buy out Mokotjo. It’s been rumored that nagging injuries have kept him off the pitch for the majority of this season. That is interesting as he is normally in the matchday squad leading to the belief that something more might be up between him and coach Jaap Stam. With his salary over $1 million per season, his salary does not match the production required out of that roster spot. If FC Cincinnati were to exercise the buyout, the new GM could bring in three, maybe four pieces mixed from abroad and within the league.

So what does 2022 look like?

Unfortunately, Nijkamp put the club into this corner and leaves his successor with few straightforward swings to get out. Is there one DP who can bring everything together to make it work like Nani in Orlando? I doubt it. Will another depth signing or two make a difference? Probably not. Will the ownership group want to buy out another million dollar player? Might have to.

While FC Cincinnati fans may expect to see another active transfer window, it won’t be easy for the new general manager. FC Cincinnati spent big the last three windows with minor on-field success. Doling out large contracts to Kubo and Cruz makes them nearly untradeable. Blackett and Cameron are both likely on large cap hits at center back, and all three U-22 spots should be filled, limiting impact signings. While Blackett is an attractive piece, his signing took up a large chunk of money that could have been used by the new GM. Luckily his first option ends in summer 2022, making an exit likely if it doesn’t work out.

The first move FC Cincinnati has to make if they want to contend for a playoff spot in 2022 is to cut ties with Mokotjo. If he leaves, it allows FC Cincinnati to go out and get another borderline TAM/high GAM level signing from abroad. Along with a new DP this would give the general manager two impact players to add to FC Cincinnati’s core.

The next thing to do is to hit the MLS free agency market and sign at least one proven MLS veteran who could come in to start. I don’t think the club has enough GAM and cap space to go get a player in the profile of a Dax McCarty, but with increased eligibility for free agency negotiated in the latest collective bargaining agreement, there should be more players available this offseason to pick up.

Any further moves will require the new GM to get really creative, and I don’t see an easy way of doing it. There is little cap space available for another interleague trade. The two likeliest exits would be either Cruz or Kubo. Both are reportedly on contracts through 2022, so any departures would likely be out of the league. Both players are still in their mid to late 20s and could have value. I’d think the most likely departure would have to be Cruz. If he can have a strong World Cup qualifying cycle this fall, he could increase some value that would make teams take on his contract.

In the end, like it or not, the new general manager will have to come in with a plan to incorporate a lot of pieces already here. Nijkamp left the club with little roster flexibility and only one clear impact move available.

Will the club go with someone familiar with MLS roster rules to pick up the pieces, or will they turn to another international option who’d likely have to learn on the job? Time will tell, but I think FC Cincinnati no longer has the capital built up in the fanbase to endure another roster rebuild that would require “four to five transfer windows”.

The post Tough road ahead for new FC Cincinnati general manager appeared first on Cincinnati Soccer Talk.

The club will begin the search for a permanent successor immediately.

“I would like to thank Gerard for his commitment and dedication to FC Cincinnati. Gerard has been a key leader in the development in our project – opening of TQL Stadium, improving the roster, player development from the Academy to the first team, and building a broader soccer infrastructure that positions us for success in the future,” said FC Cincinnati president Jeff Berding in a press release.

“We sincerely appreciate Gerard’s efforts over the past two years and respect his decision to return to his family in Europe. We wish him and his family the best of luck moving forward. With a significant portion of the season remaining, our focus is on improving our play on the pitch and earning a playoff spot. Our search for Gerard’s successor will begin immediately and focus on identifying the leader that best aligns with our ambition to win a championship in Major League Soccer.”

Nijkamp was hired in May of 2019 to be the club’s general manager. His tenure will be noted for record breaking signings, the rapid development of the academy, but also many players that failed to live up to the expectations of the club and it’s fans.

“I’m proud of the foundation we have here and all the hard work everyone has put into it,” said Nijkamp. “I will always be thankful to ownership and leadership for the chance to serve this club. While this has been an exciting opportunity, I have decided to pursue positions closer to my family. I wish the team the best moving forward.”

While there were and continue to be positives from Nijkamp’s tenure, his regular season record of 7-20-10 fell well below expectations. Nijkamp while on the Cincinnati Soccer Talk podcast declared that he needed four to five transfer windows to form a winning squad. The close of the window at midnight marked the end of his fourth full window and fifth total at the helm of FCC.

Questions will be had if Nijkamp was out of his depth in the complicated MLS roster budget process while also underestimating the level of the league. Several signings including designated players Yuya Kubo and Jurgen Locadia along with TAM players Siem de Jong and Maikel van der Werff have not performed to expected levels.

The sights will now fall on FCC president Jeff Berding to see who will next chart the course for one of the best supported clubs in the country. Will the leadership of the Orange & Blue look again to an internationally known GM or will they focus on a known quantity in MLS circles? How does this move effect Man United legend and FCC head coach Jaap Stam? Cincinnati while a small market is an attractive job with great facilities, supporters and has ownership with deep pockets. There should be many interested in this position. Aim high.

The post BREAKING: FC Cincinnati and GM Gerard Nijkamp mutually agree to part ways appeared first on Cincinnati Soccer Talk.

Kristin Dyer of MLSMultiplex.com reported “Valot is being traded for $50,000 in allocation money and another $50,000 in allocation money if he is on his new club’s roster in 2022.”

“We are pleased to acquire a player of Florian’s quality,” FC Cincinnati general manager Gerard Nijkamp said in a club press release. “He is a versatile player with MLS experience and talent who can play a multitude of positions for us, and he will bring a dynamic presence to the midfield.”

Valot has made over 100 professional appearances in his career between the Red Bulls and their USL affiliate. He brings solid league experience, featuring in 43 MLS matches and notching five goals and nine assists with the Harrison, New Jersey, club.

In its first move of the 2021 summer transfer window deadline day, FCC gained a technically gifted player who can fill many different positions on the pitch. Nijkamp has been targeting midfield depth this window with Valot possibly filling a backup role to playmaker Luciano Acosta.

Valot can also play the wing positions or the box-to-box role filled by Allan Cruz. FCC has been in desperate need of an attacking piece in the midfield with Valot bringing enough technical skill to help the Orange & Blue push the ball further into the attack.

The midfielder does have some history with FC Cincinnati, scoring his first goal as a professional in 2016 vs. the club as a USL side. He also scored twice in Nippert Stadium in 2017 in a 4-2 loss for Red Bulls 2. In MLS action, Valot recorded two assists in the opening match of the 2020 season vs. FCC.

This is a good depth piece for the club giving coach Jaap Stam a tool to hopefully use late in the game or in a spot starter role.

The post FC Cincinnati trades for Red Bulls midfielder Florian Valot appeared first on Cincinnati Soccer Talk.

Highlights from this week’s show.

On this week’s podcast, Boston and Brad fill in as hosts with Ken Hoetker and Bill Wolf.

The guys offered up their best and worst from this weekend’s scoreless draw against 10-men, which became 9 men DC United.

We wrapped this week’s show with some very clever Apple Podcast reviews! Thank you for sending those in!

Support CST!

Want to help support Cincinnati Soccer Talk? Want to become an episode captain? Become a supporter today!

You can also help support the show by purchasing some shirts from our new T-shirt store! Head on over to cincinnatisoccertalk.com/shop.

Subscribe to Cincinnati Soccer Talk

Don’t forget you can now download and subscribe to Cincinnati Soccer Talk on iTunes today! The podcast can also be found on Stitcher Smart Radio now. We’re also available in the Google Play Store and NOW ON SPOTIFY!

As always we’d love your feedback about our podcast! You can email the show at feedback@cincinnatisoccertalk.com. We’d love for you to join us on our Facebook page as well! Like us at Facebook.com/CincinnatiSoccerTalk.

The show’s RSS feed is https://cincinnatisoccertalk.libsyn.com/rss

The post Remembered the 9 appeared first on Cincinnati Soccer Talk.

Highlights from this week’s show.

On this week’s podcast, we welcome Bryan, Bill and Geoff back to this week’s show.

We offer up our Best and Worst of the Week in the first segment of this week’s show. What was your best and worst after last week’s 1-1 draw against Atlanta and Saturday’s 3-0 loss to Nashville.

FC Cincinnati had their first-ever homegrown player play in an official match. Congrats to Quimi Ordonez on making FCC history!

Fixture congestion and a lack of depth are going to crush FCC in the 2nd half.

We wrapped this week’s show with some very clever Apple Podcast reviews! Thank you for sending those in!

Support CST!

Want to help support Cincinnati Soccer Talk? Want to become an episode captain? Become a supporter today!

You can also help support the show by purchasing some shirts from our new T-shirt store! Head on over to cincinnatisoccertalk.com/shop.

Subscribe to Cincinnati Soccer Talk

Don’t forget you can now download and subscribe to Cincinnati Soccer Talk on iTunes today! The podcast can also be found on Stitcher Smart Radio now. We’re also available in the Google Play Store and NOW ON SPOTIFY!

As always we’d love your feedback about our podcast! You can email the show at feedback@cincinnatisoccertalk.com. We’d love for you to join us on our Facebook page as well! Like us at Facebook.com/CincinnatiSoccerTalk.

The show’s RSS feed is https://cincinnatisoccertalk.libsyn.com/rss

The post TQL Hosting a World Cup Qualifier? appeared first on Cincinnati Soccer Talk.