Chop Soccer

NWSL Free Agency Drama, Messi’s MLS Cup Masterclass, and Top Moments from the World Cup Draw

In today’s episode, we break down three major stories shaking up the American soccer landscape.We start with the ongoing contract standoff between Trinity Rodman, the Washington Spirit, and the NWSL. We discuss a situation that puts a spotlight on the league’s salary cap, free agency rights, and whether the current CBA can actually support its biggest stars.From there, we shift breaking down the MLS Cup Final, where Lionel Messi delivered again with two assists, securing Inter Miami’s first-ever championship. We look at what it says about Miami’s transformation and what Messi’s influence means moving forward.We close by getting into the 2026 World Cup draw with Ken's list of his top moments/storylines from the event.

MLS & Apple Ending Their Deal Early... What It Really Means

In this episode (our last before Thanksgiving and our first video-supported show in a long time) we break down the surprising news behind MLS and Apple restructuring their partnership and explore what comes next for the league. We cover:Why the deal is ending earlyWhat Apple is signaling by removing the Season Pass paywallHow MLS’s move to a winter schedule changes everythingThe realistic best-case scenario for MLS after 2029The realistic worst-case scenario if the market coolsIf you enjoy the episode, don’t forget to like, subscribe, and drop your thoughts on where MLS should go next.

MLS Cup Playoffs Round 1: Winners, Losers, and the Road Ahead

We’re back! After a little time away from the mics, we return with a packed episode breaking down all the chaos, dominance, and controversy from Round 1 of the 2025 MLS Cup Playoffs.This week, we sort through the biggest winners and losers from an opening round that went mostly chalk except for a few teams who made a statement and a few who completely fell apart. We break down:Inter Miami’s revenge tour, Messi’s insane scoring streak, and what this means for their title hopes.FC Cincinnati’s rivalry redemption, knocking out Columbus in a gritty Game 3.San Diego FC’s historic expansion season, and whether they’re legit contenders or simply riding early season magic.The MLS scheduling disaster caused by FIFA breaks and why this three week playoff pause is driving fans crazy.Charlotte FC’s collapse as the only top four seed to bow out.The embarrassing moment that overshadowed the Chicago Fire’s playoff return.

Shirt Wars: Adidas, Nike, Puma, and the Future of Football Kits

The soccer jersey game isn’t just about fabric and logos. It’s about money, prestige, and fan culture. In this episode, we dive into the changing landscape of kit manufacturers across Europe’s top five leagues.We break down Adidas’s surge to the top, Nike and Puma’s strategies to stay competitive, and the rise of challengers like Castore, Umbro, and Macron. From record-breaking sponsorship deals to the growing role of sustainability and fan-driven design, this conversation explores how jerseys are shaping not just the game, but the business of football itself.What We Cover:Why Adidas is dominating the Premier League with nearly 40% of clubs.The record kit deals fueling Manchester United, Arsenal, Liverpool, and Manchester City.How smaller brands are carving out a niche against the Big Three.Key market trends: customization, e-commerce, and sustainability.The fan experience—why design and storytelling matter as much as the logo.

MLS + Apple: The Numbers Are In

We've got questions about the MLS and Apple’s first big reveal on Season Pass viewership. Don Garber says it’s 120,000 unique viewers per match, up nearly 50% from last year… but we have thoughts...