Kick Off: MLS MVP is revealed | Tickets for MLS Cup sell out in 3 minutes

Greg Seltzer

Here is everything you need to know about MLS and North American soccer this morning:

Your 2016 MVP

It was announced on Tuesday morning that New York City FC captain David Villa beat out New York Red Bulls rivals Sacha Kljestan and Bradley Wright-Phillips for the 2016 Landon Donovan MVP award. Watch the MVP presentation here.

All snapped up

The public sale of MLS Cup final tickets didn't last long on Monday, as Toronto FC's BMO Field sold out in just three minutes ahead of Saturday night's match.

Cup stories

Ahead of Saturday's MLS Cup showdown between the Seattle Sounders and Toronto FC (8 pm ET on FOX and UniMás in USA; TSN and RDS in Canada), Seattle netminder Stefan Frei reflects on how he's come full circle from the start of his MLS career with Toronto FC. As for the Sounders' attack threats, Toronto FC is plotting to contain them.

Better off Red

Armchair Analyst Matt Doyle notes how Toronto FC have reached MLS Cup by going domestic, which bucks the league trend. Meanwhile, Sportsnet scribe John Molinaro details how covering the Reds beat for the last decade has been an emotional roller coaster ride.

Home-cooking numbers

How important is home-field advantage in MLS Cup history? Steve Brisendine has the answer.

The A team

On Monday, the MLS Best XI was revealed for the season that wraps up on Saturday night with MLS Cup 2016 and seven of the players were first-time selections.

Join the club

As anticipated, Atlanta United have clinched the signing of Lanus playmaker and Paraguay international Miguel Almiron.

Peach-y keen

Of course, Atlanta United have more squad building to do, and they're reportedly chasing loan deals for a trio of Newell's Old Boys players. With the team aggressively seeking players, FourFourTwo's Paul Tenorio writes that the team is setting a heady precedent for all expansion teams to follow.

New recruit

New York City FC have added the reigning USL MVP, forward Sean Okoli, from FC Cincinnati.

Protected classes

With the MLS Expansion Draft drawing near on December 13, local blogs are weighing who should and shouldn't be left exposed by Chicago, NYCFC and Portland.

Lion's prey?

Local blog Mane Land has suggested that Orlando City would do well to look into signing defender Kevin Ellis, who did not have his option picked up by Sporting KC.

Martin-terest

According to El Mundo Deportivo, Espanyol defender Martin Demichelis could have multiple MLS offers in January.

Up for the prize

Three MLS stars have been nominated for US Player of the Year award, while Seattle rookie ace Jordan Morris is among the finalists for the Young Male Player of the Year prize.

Trial period

Louisville City midfielder Aodhan Quinn, a former Philadelphia Union SuperDraft pick, has begun a trial with Norwegian side IK Start.

#MLSSoshies are back!

It's that time again! We're looking for your MLSSoshies nominations as we get to set to celebrate the best social network performances of the year from MLS players.