MLS: The Call-Up

Goals in extratime, a Gareth Bale header that sends the game to PKs, and a goalkeeper sub that ends in an MVP performance sound like a Hollywood movie, but that is exactly what MLS Cup 2022 featured. Join The Call Up in our season finale as we take in all the emotions.

Get to know Leon Flach! The 21 year old German has played every game since arriving last season & just had the game winner to send the Union back to the Eastern Conference Final!! Hear about his journey, why he loves Jim Curtin, and the epic upcoming Conference Final rematch with NYCFC.

From the ESPY's to the Audi 2022 MLS Cup Playoffs, we cover it all with Austin FC Goalkeeper Brad Stuver. Fresh off his penalty kick win, he talks upcoming date with rival FC Dallas, his path to a starting role, and his advocacy for ALL. This episode will have you as hyped as we are for more Playoffs action.

2022 MLS Golden Boot Pres. by Audi winner Nashville SC midfielder Hany Mukhtar is a ray of sunshine on this very timely & smiley episode. We discuss his 2022 scoring prowess, Nashville SC's Playoff plans, and who he wants to see in the MLS Cup Final. No matter your team, this episode gives you all the positive vibes.

We catch up with MLSES host & reporter Ximena Cebreros. From Mexico to NYC, Ximena shares her career path, from covering news and entertainment in her home country to now interviewing the biggest names in MLS. She discusses the difference between media coverage in the US and Latin America and why a partnership between MLS and Liga MX is a win for the sport globally.

Alecko Eskandarian joins the show! Find out what the former MLS Cup MVP said about the secret to that 2004 DCU team and how his 2010 date with Kim Kardashian came to be. Plus, his family's incredible journey from Armenia to Iran to the NY Cosmos and what he recalls about a young Christian Pulisic.

18 year old Chicago Fire goalkeeper is about to make the move of a lifetime to Chelsea FC of the Premier League. The ladies discuss his breakout season with the Fire, what USMNT goalies have lent a helping hand, and his secret talents! Plus, where he got the name Gaga and we unveil his ranking for 22 Under 22 presented by BODYARMOR!

Get star stuck on this episode with superstar Giorgio Chiellini! A "student" of the game, Chiellini discusses how the defender role has changed through the years and which MLS defenders impress him. His love for tacos, LAFC supporters, and the Supporters' Shield race. Plus, what is the real story behind THAT espresso machine?

Inter Miami manager Phil Neville shares his “brilliant basics” and Beckham's 2022 expectations. The Pep Guardiola + Bruce Arena dinner party you don't want to miss and what will surprise you about Gonzalo Higuain. Neville also shares the amazing story of the Bury FC (pronounced “Berry”) family business. P.S. he gets it from his mama!

Ahead of their historic appearance in the U.S. Open Cup Final, Sacramento Republic head coach Mark Briggs joins the pod. He discusses his team's “Cinderella story” in this year's tournament as they look to become the first non-MLS team to take home the Lamar Hunt trophy since 1999, facing off against Orlando City in the final. Also, Mark explains why the city of Sacramento has embraced this team and how their supporters will make their presence known at Exploria Stadium on Sept 7th!

The Call Up welcomes Orlando City forward Tesho Akindele back to the pod. Fresh off his game winning goal, Tesho explains why he's able to show up in big moments, saying “pressure is a privilege”. He discusses his relationship with head coach Oscar Pareja and what it would mean for OCSC to win their first trophy in the US Open Cup. Plus - his advice to young players planning for the future.

Fresh off his signing with FC Cincinnati, Matt Miazga joins the pod. He discusses his return to the U.S. and MLS (he still calls it football, lol), and how he and the league have evolved since his time with the New York Red Bulls. Matt also shares his hopes for the USMNT and reveals what that first meeting with José Mourinho was really like.

It's All-Star Week and we are HYPED! Join Susannah Collins and Jillian Sakovits as they chat with your 2022 MLS All-Stars LIVE from Minnesota.

MNUFC President Shari Ballard joins the show. In 2021, Ballard joined the few but growing number of female MLS club presidents. After 25 years at the highest ranks of Best Buy, she says the club “feeds her soul.” Listen to her fascinating story & get set for the 2022 All-Star Game Presented by Target in Minnesota!

It's Canadian Championship Final day, and Vancouver Whitecaps head coach Vanni Sartini joins the ladies ahead of tonight's big match. How he made his way to Vancouver, his preferred pizza toppings, and a special cameo from Frida the Cat.

Fresh off being named to his first MLS All-Star Roster, Paul Arriola joins the pod! He discusses the epic way in which he found out about his All-Star selection (spoiler: his dog was involved), his connection with teammate Jesús Ferreira, and why FC Dallas feels like home. Plus, a super fun edition of USMNT Superlatives!

Anton Tinnerholm makes his triumphant return to the field after his October achilles injury. After missing MLS Cup, the right back is eager for NYCFC to repeat. He discusses Ronny Deila's departure and Taty Castellanos' desire to go to Europe. Plus - if NYCFC repeats, will Nick Cushing follow suit and do a Deila-level celebration? Tune in to find out!

MLS mainstay and style ICON Kelyn Rowe drops by with what has now become the infamous jacket. Post CCL championship celebrations, all the wine chat you could ever imagine, and how Macklemore helped make his CCL celebrations iconic. You won't want to miss this one!

Jenny Chiu of CBS joins the show to discuss her role with CBS, captaining the U-17 Mexican national team, career journey, and her fight to play on a boys team to make it all happen. Plus, a message from Jillian & Susannah in what has been a dark week for many - you are not alone.

The Philadelphia Union midfielder is fresh off international duty after his native Hungary shocked the world, beating England 4-0 to now lead their group in UEFA Nations League (which includes Germany & Italy). Gazdag is also having a standout season with the Union and is determined to have another MLS Cup run. We get a tattoo guarantee you only find here!

Soccer media superstar Kaylyn Kyle joins the Call Up. A bronze medalist for the #CANWNT, Kaylyn offers her insight on Canada's outlook in Qatar, playing for John Herdman, and how her journey helped manifest her “dream job”. Plus! A historic announcement from MLS and Apple - a match made in soccer heaven!

A true legend, Briana Scurry, joins the Call Up for a conversation about her trailblazing career that includes 2 Olympic gold medals, a World Cup Championship, and her induction to the Soccer Hall of Fame - the first black woman and female goalkeeper to receive that honor. Briana discusses her new memoir “My Greatest Save,” coming out on June 21st, as well as the documentary “The Only” highlighting her remarkable life and soccer journey. Take a listen to what she hopes people will take away from her powerful story.

15 year MLS veteran goalkeeper Chris Seitz opens up about the extreme fitness/health regime he faced at D.C. United and the devastating effects it had on his physical and mental health. What he wants people to know about professional athletes pushing the limits and what clubs can do to prevent this from happening. A raw, candid and important conversation that deserves your time.

The soccer media OG Grant Wahl joins the pod! What is the first question he would ask Lionel Messi and Kim K? We get the scoop. Also, how his career has flourished amidst a changing media landscape and which USMNT players have the most to prove in the upcoming friendlies. Plus, Grant shares details on his upcoming project.

From 2016 undrafted free agent to Premier League goalkeeper, Matt Turner joins the show. He discusses his love for the New England Revolution and its fans, putting on his “big boy pants” and we gauge just how ready he is for life in England! With a baby on the way, the newlywed gives us all the life details before his big move.

In the midst of an MVP caliber 2022 season, CF Montréal midfielder Djordje Mihailovic joins the pod. A true student of the game, he explains why he's focused on scoring more goals this season, but says delivering assists will always be his favorite. Has Gregg Berhalter been in touch?? We get the scoop. Plus, Djordje gives a shout out to the high school teacher that helped make his professional soccer career possible. An entertaining convo with one of MLS's most exciting young players…check it out!

Nashville's most recognizable fan sits down with us. Soccer Moses was introduced at Nashville SC's inaugural MLS match in Feb 2020 and quickly became one of the league's most iconic fan faces. The man behind the beard & robe, Stephen Mason, explains the genesis of his alter ego, what he's doing in real life, and what's to come. Oh yeah, and he's also a Grammy Award winning musician and master barber!

What's up Nashville?! The Call Up takes Nashville for a special roadshow ahead of the opening of GEODIS Park. Music City is BUZZING, and midfielder Alex Muyl, CEO Ian Ayre, and GM Mike Jacobs take us through the emotions leading up to Nashville's big day. Plus, what is takes to run a club, how to build a roster [of good people], and why did Timothee Chalamet force Alex Muyl to do the Soulja Boy? Take a listen.

RSL Captain Damir Kreilach joins the pod to share his journey from Croatia to Salt Lake City and why the move to Real Salt Lake was the best decision of his life. Damir discusses the importance of his versatility as a player and explains why RSL has embraced the underdog mentality. As Damir says, “so far, so great!”

We TOLD YOU we weren't leaving! Come join us as we get to know the leaders behind LA Galaxy and LAFC: head coaches Greg Vanney and Steve Cherundolo.

El Tráfico, IRL, on The Call Up! The ladies are joined by Chicharito, Julián Araujo, Kellyn Acosta, and Maxime Crépeau in this first part sit down in Los Angeles with the stars of LA Galaxy and LAFC.

“It's like a movie” is how 2x MLS All-Star Dema Kovalenko describes the dire war situation in his native Ukraine. The Call Up speaks to Dema from Poland, where he tries to find out what and where is next for his family, who were forced to flee their Kyiv home. Take a listen.

You heard that right! Reunited and it feels so good! Ahead of opening weekend for MLS Next Pro, The Call Up welcomes in former SKC teammates (and podcast hosts!), Benny Feilhaber and Ike Opara, as they prepare for their first season at the helm of SKC II. The duo discuss their coaching styles and influences, as well as what success looks like in year one. Plus, Benny's thoughts on the upcoming WCQ window and why this USMNT has what it takes to get the job done. A podcast reunion you don't want to miss!

The Call Up hits the road to SXSW in Austin for a candid conversation with Claudio Reyna. The former USMNT captain & Austin FC sporting director shares incredible stories and insight, ranging from Maradona, World Cups, son Gio Reyna, USMNT, building a roster, MLS…and of course, a Bruce Arena impression. A soccer IQ & tales you don't want to miss!

Nadia Nadim is clinical in more ways than one! After fleeing Afghanistan at age 11, Nadia became a world renowned striker and an MD…all at the same time. This is a story you need to hear. Happy International Women's Day!

Got milk? Nashville defender Jack Maher joins the show after Nashville's 1-0 win in Seattle to open. What Dax McCarty did to welcome him to the squad, Jack's experience with San Diego Loyal coach Landon Donovan, and the Nashville SC season plan.

Danielle Slaton: broadcaster, former USWNT player, board member, mother, and all around busiest person in soccer drops by The Call Up. Danielle talks USWNT, how she got started in broadcasting, and SJ Earthquakes. Plus, Best Dressed MLS Coach Power Rankings are BACK!

USMNT & Serie A midfielder Gianluca Busio joins the show. The kid from Greensboro, NC discusses his new life in Italy and how the move brought his heritage full circle, his USMNT plans, and his reflections on his time with SKC. Sit back, relax, and tour Venezia with Gianluca.

USMNT & Atlanta United centerback joins the show from Guadalajara, Mexico. The forever humble Miles Robinson speaks of plans for the future while staying grounded in the present. Get to know one the best defenders in MLS on a deeper level as Miles joins the Call Up crew to talk about everything from Paris to Gregg Berhalter to Quaker schooling to the World Cup.

We back BABY! Season 4 of The Call Up welcomes in Chicago Fire's newest signing, Kacper Przybylko. The Polish striker who led the Union in goals the last 3 seasons has a fascinating journey. From growing up and playing in Germany to making his mark in MLS, Kacper discusses why he's pumped to make the move to the Windy City. Plus, he makes a life changing announcement! The 2022 season starts with a bang and we are HERE FOR IT!

WE HAVE A CHAMPION! Join us for our season finale as Susannah and Jillian take you on the field moments after NYCFC win their first MLS Cup. Raw emotions, promises kept (we're looking at you, Ronny Deila), and the best kind of chaos. Grab a drink because it's a party!

MLS Cup is HERE and Susannah and Jillian are joined by a who's who of MLS characters. Gudmundur Thórarinsson serenades the ladies, Sebastian Blanco talks about his special connection with Diego Valeri, and our first pod pet?! Trust us, you won't want to miss this one!

Fresh off another mind-blowing Audi 2021 MLS Cup Playoffs performance against Sporting Kansas City, The Call Up welcomes in Justen Glad and David Ochoa ahead of their Western Conference Final appearance. Justen gives the story behind his now historic PK against Seattle and David discusses why he's embraced being everyone's favorite MLS villain. Looking to shed the label of “Cinderella story”, for RSL, it's all about BELIEF.

Spend Thanksgiving with Sporting Kansas City head coach Peter Vermes! The longest tenured coach in MLS discusses the key to beating Real Salt Lake in the Conference Semifinals (hint: it's scoring goals) and shares some personal insights that include why he gives his players personality tests AND his least favorite Thanksgiving dish. Plus, what Tom Brady & Johnny Russell have in common.

A brown liquor special with Matt Doyle, the MLS Armchair Analyst, to get us all primed & set for the Audi 2021 MLS Cup Playoffs. The Renaissance man takes us from his days as a playwright to the MLS guru we know and love. Which showtune does your team remind Doyle of and what should you expect in the Playoffs? The answers are all right here!

Surging Vancouver Whitecaps striker Brian White joins the show. Jersey boy Brian brings us inside the Vancouver Whitecaps success, coaching change, and why being a “humble striker” (don't hear that much) works wonders for him. 

The Call Up welcomes John Tolkin of the New York Red Bulls to the pod! The 19-year-old discusses his breakout season in 2021 and what it's like to go from ball boy to starring on the field for the club he grew up cheering for. Plus, the ladies get his take on the New York Derby and his ever-evolving hair styles. Will we see a Playoff push mullet?? Listen and find out!

Colorado Rapids and USMNT midfielder Kellyn Acosta joins the Call Up! He discusses the Rapids impressive 2021 season and why head coach Robin Fraser has his team prepared for their postseason run. Kellyn also dives into the “resilient” USMNT and gives his perspective on the team's performance during the WCQ's. PLUS - a deep dive into some of his most iconic fashion statements. The drip is real, people.

The captain of Nashville joins the show AGAIN. The Call Up's inaugural guest dials in from his coaching gig while also leading Nashville SC to the top of the table. He sheds light on his own maturation and that of his son Callum's while managing the terrible twos. Plus, former Ohio State University football star and business owner Dionte' Johnson stops by to preview Jersey Week and talk about his incredible patch designs.

The Call Up welcomes in the “Gaffer” of Minnesota United, Adrian Heath! He explains why his team are no longer the underdogs and what it will take for the Loons to finish above the playoff line. Plus, his journey to the US and how a moment with a Stoke City legend helped shape his winning mentality.

Atlanta United head coach Gonzalo Pineda joins the show. From his playing days in Liga MX and MLS to coaching alongside Brian Schmetzer, Pineda has done it all. Gonzalo pulls back the curtain on an emotional night for Josef Martinez after scoring his 100th goal, changing the culture at ATLUTD, and the formula his team needs to implement in order to make the playoffs in 2021.