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Happy Wednesday, everyone. And it’s a D.C. United Day as they take on Alianza FC in a friendly this evening at Audi Field. These Freedom Kicks are getting out a little late this morning (100% my bad), but because they are, we can lead with some morning breaking news:
Lionel Messi agrees Barcelona contract, accepts significant wage cut - ESPNFC
After all of the talk of him leaving, Lionel Messi is staying at FC Barcelona. We don’t know the terms of the deal, but it sounds like he’s taking a stiff cut from his 4 year, more than €500 million contract he had. Perhaps they made a Bobby Bonilla contract for him.
Ethan Horvath signs with Nottingham Forest - SSFC
The savior of the Nations League is headed to Nottingham Forest. This could be a really good move for Ethan Horvath as he finds a team that will give him a chance to be the #1 and have plenty of playing time.
Recap: Honduras 4, Grenada 0 - MLS
Honduras destroyed Grenada last night in the Gold Cup, while Panama and Qatar battled to a 3-3 draw.
Brian Sciaretta with a terrific article on the young D.C. United star Kevin Paredes. Kid’s going places and it’s wonderful that we get to see him every week for the Black-and-Red.
The Vancouver Whitecaps’ Midfielder Graveyard - 86 Forever
A breakdown of some of the many midfielders that were run out of Vancouver, including Felipe, who has of course found a home at Audi Field with D.C. United.
That’s it, y’all. Discuss it all in the comments!