The Daily Dirt, June 13: Sitting, Waiting, Wishing

MLS commissioner Don Garber spoke in Seattle last night at GeekWire’s Sports Tech Summit. He covered lots of topics, but let’s start with something that directly impacts Atlanta United.

He was asked about the situation in Miami and part of his answer included:

“Minnesota likely in 2017. Hopefully Miami in 2018, joining L.A, and Minnesota will join Atlanta.”

Minnesota’s situation is still unresolved for 2017. I know this is much more frustrating for the Loons’ fans than Atlanta, but it does affect how Atlanta will construct its team. The unknown status of the expansion draft has to be related to this. A reasonable expectation would be that announcements are made at the All-Star Game in San Jose on July 28.

In other Atlanta United news:

• American Family Insurance will be the club’s first kit sponsor
• San Lorenzo officially announced the transfer of Tito Villalba to MLS
• Andres Guardado returned to preseason training with PSV and he might stay there

Have an opinion about any of this to share?

America

Sporting KC trades defender Amadou Dia to Montreal for forward Cameron Porter (The Blue Testament)

6 games on the MLS schedule tonight, headlined by league leaders Dallas traveling to Seattle.

Three assistants who could be ready to become head coaches (MLS)

MLS announces its Homegrown Game roster to face Mexico’s U20’s on July 27 (MLS)

Hope Solo bring a huge list of issues that players face in the NWSL to light (Hope Solo)

The NASL’s Carolina Railhawks drew 1-1 with West Ham United last night at WakeMed Soccer Park. Omar Bravo was introduced to his new fans. (The News & Observer)

Amazing initiative in New York City that will see 50 new soccer fields built in underserved communities (NYCFC)

World

Celtic lost to a club in Gibraltar called the Lincoln Red Imps 1-0 in the UEFA Champions League second qualifying round. A police officer scored the winning goal. Yes, it happened. (BBC)

Thierry Henry refuses to give up TV role, leaves Arsene Wenger’s staff (Evening Standard)

Sam Allardyce interviewed for the England job (Sky Sports)

Atlanta

Lamar Patterson waived by the Atlanta Hawks (Peachtree Hoops)

Julio Teheran represents the Braves at the All-Star Game (Talking Chop)