New Ground with Allen & Jalil

We Get Into:The State of USMNT ahead of friendlies with Belgium and PortugalBalancing communication with PlayersArsenal's Loss Ends their bid for "Quadruple"Nashville SC's Sam Surridge MLS Player of the MonthImpact of Antoine Griezmann to Orlando City SC"Rich Motzkin" calls Jalil about coming out of retirement for TSTFLOWERS: Oakland Roots and Nashville SC Goalkeeper Brian Schwake- - -If you want real conversations from inside MLS and all things global footy, follow New Ground and SHARE this episode with someone who lives and breathes the game.

Can you wrap your head around scoring 900 goals as a professional footballer?On this episode of New Ground, Allen Hopkins Jr. and Jalil Anibaba look at Lionel Messi's latest achievement during Inter Miami CF's latest match against growing rival Nashville SC – unfortunately his efforts weren't enough to push his team through the next round of the Lamar Hunt U.S. Open Cup. Allen and Jalil discuss his effortless magic that elevates his teammates and what makes him unlike Cristiano Ronaldo who represent the best of their era.Also, as the March Madness heats up, Allen talks about his personal relationship with the Legendary Coach John. Wooden. .We get into:Fixing College Soccer and Build Their Own Yearly TournamentMessi Scores 900th GoalNashville eliminates Inter Miami CFAllen On His Relationship with Legendary Coach John WoodenUSMNT Rosters are Shaping UpTaking US Open Cup SeriouslyThe Importance of Veterans Supporting Young PlayersFLOWERS: College Student Athletes & Academy Players- - -If you want real conversations from inside MLS and all things global footy, follow New Ground and SHARE this episode with someone who lives and breathes the game.

Unravel the magic of the Champions League, where legends are born and every match is a clash of titans.Miami Heat's Bam Adebayo just dropped 83-points in an NBA game and hosts Allen Hopkins Jr. and Jalil Anibaba explore what would be the equivalent achievement in the world of soccer. Hours after Bam's game, Real Madrid's Federico Valverde dropped a first half hat-trick during a round of 16 Champions League clash against Manchester City. But are those two things the same? We also get a wild story about the time Jalil volunteered - yes, he asked for it - to play Goalkeeper as a member of the Houston Dynamo. We get into:Soccer's Equivalent to 83 points in the NBAChampions League is Like a Yearly World CupWho Was Elite at Neutralizing a Bad BallJalil Subs In for Goalkeeper?!Oscar Pareja's Out in Orlando CityNashville / Inter Miami RivalryThe Rise of LAFC's David MartinezPhiladelphia Union Winless without Key PlayersFLOWERS: Brooklyn FC's HC Marlon LeBlanc & New England Revolution II's HC Pablo Moreira- - -If you want real conversations from inside MLS and all things global footy, follow New Ground and SHARE this episode with someone who lives and breathes the game.

With Arsenal FC having a lead in the Premier League, we encourage supporters around the globe to hold on tight.On this episode of New Ground, Allen Hopkins Jr. and Jalil Anibaba talk about the Prem, the US National Teams and the top stories in Major League Soccer.We get into:Allen and Jalil discuss all-time favorite bootsHold your breath Arsenal fansNaomi Girma shows out back with USWNTSwag don't lag with Rose LavelleWeston McKennie extended through 2030Messi bags a brace or Inter Miami CFNY Red Bulls values their youthChicago Fire reestablishing themselves a destinationDC United flipping the script from '25?Does MLS need LIGA MX for All-Star Game?Flowers: Giselle Thompson and Community Service- - -If you want real conversations from inside MLS and all things global footy, follow New Ground and SHARE this episode with someone who lives and breathes the game.

Is LAFC the 2026 MLS frontrunner after beating defending champs Inter Miami CF in front of 75,000 fans at the LA Memorial Coliseum?On this episode of New Ground, Allen Hopkins Jr. and Jalil Anibaba talk about what was revealed to them after Matchday 1 of the 2026 MLS campaign.We get into:LAFC's Son and Bouanga attacking with venomNew York Red Bulls' starting 3 teenagers under Matt BradleyNashville SC's 3 Headed Monster with Surridge, Mukhtar, and EspinozaKeep on dancing Vini Jr.USMNT Player Pool finding their form at the right timeMLS Matchday 2 PreviewFlowers; Ray Gaddis and MLS Referees (Tori Penso, Kathryn Nesbitt, Meghan Mullen)- - -If you want real conversations from inside MLS and all things global footy, follow New Ground and SHARE this episode with someone who lives and breathes the game.

It's wrong to center Vinícius Júnior in the most recent incident of racial abuse - all attention needs to be on Gianluca Prestianni and the history of abuse on the pitch.On this episode of New Ground, Allen Hopkins Jr. and Jalil Anibaba talk about the on-field incident during a UEFA Champions League match between Real Madrid and Benfica.We get into:Gianluca Prestianni's Role in the IncidentJose Mourinho Gaslighting CommentsUSMNT Strikers Finding their Form10 Questions Leading Into MLS Season 31Flowers: Savy King (Angel City FC) & CBS Champions League Broadcast Team- - - If you want real conversations from inside MLS and all things global footy, follow New Ground and SHARE this episode with someone who lives and breathes the game.

Thank goodness for Bad Bunny because that Super Bowl was not a fun watch.On this episode of New Ground, Allen Hopkins Jr. and Jalil Anibaba talk about the week that was where all eyes were on Super Bowl LX.We get into:Bad Bunny Living His Best Life at the Super Bowl Coaching and Managing PeopleKC Current Makes Move to Get Croix BethuneDoes the Super Bowl compare to the World Cup Final?Jalil Played for the Kraft Family, but Not Invested in the PatriotsPreference for How to LoseFlowers: DeJuan Jones (San Jose Earthquakes) & Justine Emmanwori- - -If you want real conversations from inside MLS and all things global footy, follow New Ground and SHARE this episode with someone who lives and breathes the game.

Ever wondered what legendary MLS and soccer insiders consider their ultimate dream team? On this episode of New Ground, Allen Hopkins Jr. and Jalil Anibaba craft their all-star "family feud" of soccer legends—sharing not just who they'd pick but the secret qualities that make these players unforgettable. From calmness under pressure to relentless professionalism, these insights reveal what truly elevates a player beyond the pitch.We get into:Jalil's MLS Family Feud TeamBad Bunny living his best lifeAlex Freeman to Villarreal FC (La Liga)Obed Vargas to Atlético Madrid (La Liga)Patrick Agyemang to Derby County (EFL Championship)Young Talent in the USMNT Player PoolFlowers: Oguchi Onyewu, Amir Lowery, & Nashville Workers Aiding in Storm Recovery- - -If you want real conversations from inside MLS and all things global footy, follow New Ground and SHARE this episode with someone who lives and breathes the game.

What's the difference between "Doing too much" and "Doing the Most" – which one are you?On this episode of New Ground, Allen Hopkins Jr. and Jalil Anibaba talk about the ins and outs of MLS Preseason experience and debate what are the important takeaways as organizations ramp up.We get into:MLS Preseason GrindWhich Things are Actually Important in Preseason?CONCACAF Impact to Preseason Ramp UpFlowers: Cobi Jones and Andrei Chirilă (FC Cincinnati) and Academy/2nd team players- - -If you want real conversations from inside MLS and all things global footy, follow New Ground and SHARE this episode with someone who lives and breathes the game.

Unlock the unexpected truths behind the skills and moments that shape our world—like the hidden art of shorthand, the chaotic beauty of football finals, and the cultural power of African tournaments. In this episode, Allen Hopkins Jr. and Jalil Anibaba dive into stories that reveal why forgotten skills still hold immense value, how sports chaos creates legendary memories, and why the passion in African football breaks boundaries and stereotypes.You'll discover the psychology of hiding money in encyclopedias, the wild unpredictability of finals like Zidane’s infamous headbutt, and how African nations like Senegal are redefining greatness against all odds. Plus, get an inside look at the rising stars of the US men's national team, Wes McKinney and Christian Pulisic, and why their mentality could shape the future of global soccer.This episode is a must-listen if you crave raw authenticity, fresh perspectives on sport and culture, and stories that remind us why chaos and passion are essential to greatness. Whether you're a soccer fanatic, a sports historian, or someone seeking inspiration from real-life resilience, you'll leave with a new appreciation for the beautiful madness that fuels both game and life.And for those ready to embrace the mess, the victories, and the stories that keep the world turning—hit play now. Your journey into the heart of what makes sport and culture truly spellbinding starts here.- - -WEEKLY FLOWERS:Attorney and Restauranteur Kevin Kelly & Dr. Diego Gutierrez

Clarity and Intentionality Make or Break Your Soccer Season.On this episode of New Ground, Allen Hopkins Jr. and Jalil Anibaba talk about how the offseason can set up a team for success. We get into:What Are the Ingredients to a Successful PreseasonOne of Jalil's Best Preseasons was Playing International CompetitionUSMNT Chris Richards is Ballin' Out at Crystal PalaceAFCON UpdatesFlowers: U.S. Coaches Convention Attendees & Team Administrators- - -If you want real conversations from inside MLS and all things global footy, follow New Ground and SHARE this episode with someone who lives and breathes the game.

We are back and we are better for 2026!On this episode of New Ground, Allen Hopkins Jr. and Jalil Anibaba talk about some MLS preseason activities.We get into:Overcoming EV Range AnxietyMLS Rookie SymposiumAfrican Cup of NationsFlowers; AFCON and City of Nashville- - -If you want real conversations from inside MLS and all things global footy, follow New Ground and SHARE this episode with someone who lives and breathes the game.

What's our favorite thing about New Ground? Our guests and creating a space for genuine vibes.On this episode of New Ground, Allen Hopkins Jr. and Jalil Anibaba revisit some of our favorite guest conversations from 2025 as well as reflect on the space that they've cultivated with New Ground.We get into:MLS Ironman Kei Kamara goes in depth into how he and his family escaped from the civil war of Sierra Leone and moved to America.Calen Carr talks about growing up in Berkeley, California and how he against all odds found soccer. He was hooked and convinced his Mom to travel to Brazil by himself as a teenager so that he could train.Former NWSL Champion turned media darling Darian Jenkins gives us her take on the growth of the league and all the nonsense she had to endure back in the day.Legend and homie of the show Maurice Edu talks about how quickly his playing days were taken away all at the same time he lost his father.Thank you everyone for riding with us, We can't wait to see where 2026 will take us!- - - If you want real conversations from inside MLS and all things global footy, follow New Ground and SHARE this episode with someone who lives and breathes the game.

That's all folks! Inter Miami FC are the 2025 MLS Cup winners.On this episode of New Ground, Allen Hopkins Jr. properly sends Jalil Anibaba off with congratulations and advice before going off to Mexico to get married and start his new chapter. We get into:Can Jalil Jump Back Onto the Pitch after 5 years Retired like the Colts' Philip RiversJalil getting married!MLS Cup RecapMLS Coaching Carousel2026 MLS OutlookAllen's World Cup Draw ExperienceFlowers: Marlon LeBlanc/Jalil and Erin, Jalil's Family

The stage is set for the 2025 MLS Cup Final and we're here for it. On this episode of New Ground, Allen Hopkins Jr. and Jalil Anibaba talk about the ins and outs of the season finale with Inter Miami CF coming in red hot. We Get Into:Wilfried Nancy Moves from Columbus Crew to Celtic F.C.2025 MLS Cup Preview - Vancouver Whitecaps FC v Inter Miami CFInter Miami's DominanceVancouver's ResilienceMatch Dynamics with Miami's Offensive Prowess and Vancouver's Strategic ApproachHistorical ContextFlowers: Michelle Kang & Ali Ahmed- - -If you want real conversations from inside MLS and all things global footy, follow New Ground and SHARE this episode with someone who lives and breathes the game.

New York City FC Defender Tayvon Gray prepares to play a red hot Inter Miami CF team that has its sights set on the MLS Cup.On this episode of New Ground, Allen Hopkins Jr. and Jalil Anibaba welcome homegrown talent Tayvon Gray and get into We get into:Celebrating Thanksgiving with Reflections on Family Traditions and Soul Food.New York City's Impressive Playoff RunTayvon Gray Shares His Growth since 2021Tayvon Discusses Relationship with Coach Pascal JansenFlowers: NWSL Growth & Thanksgiving Contributors - - -If you want real conversations from inside MLS and all things global footy, follow New Ground and SHARE this episode with someone who lives and breathes the game.

Thank goodness for Bad Bunny because that Super Bowl was not a fun watch.On this episode of New Ground, Allen Hopkins Jr. and Jalil Anibaba talk about the week that was where all eyes were on Super Bowl LX.We get into:MLS Play as One InitiativeUSMNT 2025 Recap, 2026 OutlookMLS Conference Finals PreviewsFlowers: Curaçao and Haiti WC Qualifiers, Temwa Chawinga MVP- - -If you want real conversations from inside MLS and all things global footy, follow New Ground and SHARE this episode with someone who lives and breathes the game.

What does it mean to find your community and living a life full of purpose?On this episode of New Ground, Allen Hopkins Jr. and Jalil Anibaba link up with Michael Lahoud who has rediscovered his voice and Blackness in Sports Media. We get into:Living Life in His Melanin-rich SkinNigeria and AFCON College Sports with NIL and Transfer PortalUSMNT November Window, Gio Reyna's Last ChanceParenthoodFlowers: Alex Freeman and MLS Clubs Eliminated from Playoffs- - -If you want real conversations from inside MLS and all things global footy, follow New Ground and SHARE this episode with someone who lives and breathes the game.

Darian Jenkins is a Former National Women's Soccer League Champion turned influential media personality and advocate for growing the game.On this episode of New Ground, Allen Hopkins Jr. and Jalil Anibaba sit down with Darian Jenkins about the privilege she has to empower the younger generation by being herself and getting to talk about footy all day, everyday.We get into:Darian Doesn't Mess Around on VacationHaving a Good Time During the Dark Days in KCThe Growing Pains of Playing in the Early Days of NWSLEvolving the Women's GameUEFA Champions LeagueMaking Bold Predictions to Close Out the '25 NWSL SeasonFlowers; South Sudan Blind Soccer Team and Soccer Moms- - -If you want real conversations from inside MLS and all things global footy, follow New Ground and SHARE this episode with someone who lives and breathes the game.

We revisit conversations with our USL Championship Head Coaches Pa-Modou Kah and Khano Smith.On this episode of New Ground, Allen Hopkins Jr. flies solo and dives into the dynamics of soccer coaching, celebrating player achievements, and the significance of player care in the USL and MLS.We get into:Allen travels to London for Brentford FC Advisory Board DutiesRevisiting Conversation with Phoenix Rising FC Head Coach Pa-Modou KahPreviewing USL Championship MatchupsRevisiting Conversation with Rhode Island FC Head Coach Khano SmithFlowers - Newly Retired Ali Riley - - -If you want real conversations from inside MLS and all things global footy, follow New Ground and SHARE this episode with someone who lives and breathes the game.