D.C. United’s fitness, CCL returns & more: Freedom Kicks for 4/7/21

Hi there, I’m filling in for Donald who is having a lobster roll somewhere in the Northeast for me, or so I’d like to think.

D.C. United’s new coach says the team’s fitness is not up to speed (WaPo): Hernan Losada with some ominous things! Related to that, would recommend listening to this week’s Zee Soccer Podcast, where Julian Gressel talks about everyone getting fit (around the 21-minute mark).

Andy Najar esta recuperando y listo para firmar con el DC United tras superar pruebas medicas y físicas (Diez): So apparently Andy has figured out his injury problems and may be coming aboard shortly if this is something I read right.

Anthem singer DC Washington ready to take field at Nats home reopener (WTOP): Hey D.C. United if you want to make a fan return special, I have a suggestion.

Trinity Rodman: ‘My mom wasn’t in the NBA but she’s my role model’ (Guardian): Nice feature on the Washington Spirit rookie.

Previa: Washington Spirit (Futbol Ace): And a look at where Trinity’s club stands.

Welcome to NWSL, Gotham FC (All for XI): Hey this is a nice rebrand!

MLS launches “Since ’96” throwback collection (MLS): Me: Hey this is also a nice idea!

(moments later)

Timbers draw CD Marathon 2-2 in Honduras (Stumptown Footy): Portland looking in good shape to advance.

LD Alajuelense 0-1 Atlanta United: Player Ratings and Reaction (Dirty South Soccer): Good for Atlanta.

And since I threw a Pineapple Express clip in here may as well put the red band cursey trailer in for nostalgia’s sake: