MLS invokes force majeure on players, Mallory Pugh traded to Chicago Red Stars, and more: Freedom Kicks for December 30, 2020

Happy Wednesday everyone, the final Wednesday in this terrible, horrible, no good, very bad year that is 2020. Yesterday, a ton of news came down the pike, so let’s recap as much as we can:

MLS informs players’ union that it will invoke force majeure clause in CBA - ESPNFC

Major League Soccer owners informed the MLSPA that they will open the 30-day renegotiation window by invoking a force majeure clause in the new collective bargaining agreement. You know, the one that was agreed to during a pandemic back in June.

Here was the MLSPA’s reaction to the news:

MLS ain’t starting on time, y’all.

Chicago Acquires Mallory Pugh and Sarah Killion Woldmoe from Sky Blue FC - Chicago Red Stars

A massive trade, as the Chicago Red Stars land Mallory Pugh from Sky Blue FC. They also get Sarah Killion Woldmoe, and they give up 3 first round draft picks to land the duo.

A quick update in the D.C. United coaching search:

Also, new president Danita Johnson was on ABC 7 discussing her new position and the doors it’s opening for black people and women:

Y. Michele Kang joins Washington Spirit ownership group - BRU

Michele Kang is the newest member of the Washington Spirit ownership. She’s the first woman to join the Spirit as a part owner.

Report: Mark McKenzie headed to KRC Genk - SSFC

USMNT centerback Mark McKenzie looks to be headed to Belgium, leaving the Philadelphia Union to head to Genk on January 1st when the transfer window opens.

Burnley takeover: ALK Capital confident of completing deal this week - BBC

We look to have another American ownership group in the Premier League by week’s end, as Burnley will be led by American sports investment firm ALK Capital. It’s led by Alan Pace, who used to be president of Real Salt Lake.

Five possible MLS fits for Lionel Messi if he departs FC Barcelona - MLS

Lionel Messi said he might want to come to the United States one day, which means MLS has to speculate on where he would go. Spoiler alert: D.C. United is not on their list.

Swedish champions, Champions League team Kopparbergs/Goteborg FC collapses - ESPNFC

Shocking news out of Sweden, as Damallsvenskan champions Kopparbergs/Göteborg FC has folded. They won the league this past season and were in the UEFA Women’s Champions League. Current Washington Spirit and USWNT defender Emily Sonnett just finished a loan to the club before she was traded this past week to the Spirit. Really sad for women’s soccer to lose such a successful club that has been home to many American players over the years.

Enjoy the day, everyone. I’ll see you in 2021.