Star Spangled Stories: Matthew Hoppe up for top rookie, Aron Johannsson rumors

Happy hump day soccer people! Let’s get right to all the news, tweets, and other links you need for the day.

Hoppe 2021
Matthew Hoppe is up for Bundesliga Rookie of the Month. Fan votes make up 40% of the decision, so give the kid a nod.

Barcelona FC give an injury update for Sergiño Dest:

Llanez has temporarily returned to the U.S. for “private circumstances”
Uly Llanez has not seen the field very much during his time with Heerenveen, and he’s been recovering from an injury for about a month now. But, the club now says the 19-year-old Wolfsburg loanee has returned to his home country. He’ll continue his recovery here and there is currently no time table for his return.

Johannsson getting interest from Poland
Lech Poznan is in need of a striker after an injury and Aron Johannsson is reportedly being linked as a replacement.

US Open Cup Format & Contingency Plan
The U.S. Open Cup is back for 2021! But the field will be cut to just 24 teams and five rounds of play. It will begin May 4th and they’re shooting for the final to take place on June 29 or 30.

Key details for the newly ratified Major League Soccer CBA
It seems like a key point was to get the deal done for a longer term, now in place until January of 2028. Players will receive 100% compensation for the 2021 season and free agency has been expanded a bit as well.

Life in Portugal at Boavista
Reggie Cannon interviews with ESPN about playing in the “shopping window” of the Primeira Liga. He talks about leaving his comfort zone and keeping a level head in the new challenge.

Arriola’s first interview as a Swan
This is a nice look at Paul Arriola’s arrival in Swansea and what he expects from himself with this move.

BEHIND THE CREST: USMNT Closes Camp Strong
I love these videos. This episode provides a great peak at the camp and the big 7-0 win over Trinidad & Tobago.

Aaronson adjusting to life in Austria
Brian Sciaretta talks with Brenden Aaronson after getting a few games under his belt at RB Salzburg as they chase the Austrian Bundesliga title.

NYRB sign 14-year-old
Bento Estrela has become the fourth youngest signing in MLS history. The New York Red Bulls signed the New Jersey native to a homegrown contract after featuring for their U-19 academy squad.

2021 CCL Draw on Wednesday night
The Concacaf Champions League draw takes place tonight at 7pm ET. The MLS clubs in the mix are Atlanta United, Columbus Crew, Philadelphia Union, Portland Timbers, and Toronto FC.

Finally Christian Cappis dad gives Stars & Stripes FC some love!

He’s right, you know.