It’s official: FC Cincinnati will be playing again soon.
On Wednesday, the league announced the MLS is Back Tournament, a World Cup-style competition in Orlando that begins July 8. And after Thursday’s live drawing, we know the Orange and Blue are in Group E, along with Atlanta United FC, New York Red Bulls and Columbus Crew SC.
There’s a lot to discuss, so let’s get right to it.
Just like always, there are plenty of questions. I hope this mailbag is a source for some answers. Questions can be submitted here or at by tweeting at me. Thanks!
Gregory: What do you think of the Group E drawing?
First, it’s difficult. FC Cincinnati have to not only face two teams they’ve already played and lost to, but those teams are also a powerful Atlanta side and a Red Bulls team that loves the high press.
Add Columbus Crew SC – a team with an underrated roster – and FCC have a challenging Group E.
That said, it’s a great opportunity for revenge against two opponents, and then a #HellisReal Derby match. If you’re looking for storylines, it really can’t get much better than that.
Wchughes95: How much in-person time will Stam have to work with the players before the first match?
This one is still a wait-and-see reality, unfortunately. We won’t have a definite answer until head coach Jaap Stam and assistant coach Said Bakkati arrive in Cincinnati and clear health protocols.
That said, in theory it should help that Stam has already scouted footage of FCC facing Atlanta and New York, so he can hopefully enter those matches with confidence after watching the team previous games and thinking, “This is what I would’ve done.”
Russellericmcmurry: How are the players feeling about the Orlando tournament?
Based on the conversation with Fatai Alashe, Greg Garza and Spencer Richey, they’re excited to play again, but it comes with recognizable sacrifices.
Garza and other FCC players will be separated from their families, similar to a preseason – but without a break in the middle.
Ultimately, their profession is playing soccer, and they’re excited to get back to work. They’re also ready to see their teammates, who they’ve have limited contact with since the league suspended the regular season on March 12.
Wucaslitt: When will the next matches be? If so, what channels?
There’s no set date for when FCC begin the MLS is Back Tournament, and there won’t be until the league confirms kickoff times. Every single game will be broadcast on the league’s national broadcast partners.
I imagine we’ll have more concrete details soon.
Clement3413: What do you think about Regattin?
Adrien Regattin was a great addition to the roster, and I think fans will see why soon.
He’s lively on the wing and offers speed, can create scoring opportunities, and he can shoot. Defensively, he’s aggressive and I think he fits the style Stam wants to see from his players once matches resume.
