Here is everything you need to know about MLS and North American soccer this morning:
Showtime
As Saturday night's MLS Cup final between the Seattle Sounders and Toronto FC draws near (8 pm ET on FOX and UniMás in USA; TSN and RDS in Canada), both clubs will send out their stars to speak to the media on Thursday afternoon at 1:30 pm ET. You can watch the livestream of the press conference featuring the likes of Jozy Altidore, Michael Bradley and Jordan Morris.
Young guns
The MLS Cup showcase is a big chance for up-and-comers to make their name on an international stage and Sam Stejskal identifies the top five young players who could influence the championship match.
Just getting started
Seattle GM Garth Lagerwey says rookie ace Jordan Morris has only begun to shine. With that in mind, Matt Pavlich offers a look at the tactical differences between Morris' role in the Sounders attack and that of Toronto FC's Jozy Altidore.
Tale of the tape
Ahead of their MLS Cup clash, we've compared the production of Seattle attacking playmaker Nicolas Lodeiro and his Toronto FC counterpart Sebastian Giovinco.
Moor than a feeling
Rejuvenated after an offseason move from the Colorado Rapids, Toronto FC defender Drew Moor is now anchoring the defense for a title contender. Here's how the Reds landed the free agent.
Trip advisor
With MLS Cup on deck for Saturday, we've compiled a Toronto city guide of local food, bars and attractions for visitors.
Flying coach
Seattle Sounders manager Brian Schmetzer has gone from loyal assistant to MLS Cup coach in the span of one season. Here's how it happened.
Trade winds
Atlanta United may be close to adding another cog, with a trade for Columbus Crew SC defender Michael Parkhurst reportedly in the works.
Adios, Pt. 1
Vancouver have declined their option on skipper Pedro Morales, who will now be eligible for the MLS Re-Entry Draft unless he opts out or is traded.
Adios, Pt. 2
Real Salt Lake have reluctantly parted ways with attack ace Juan Manuel Martinez, who is returning to Argentina for family reasons.
Let's make a deal
According to NYCFC Nation, the club is trying to purchase the other half of left back/hot European transfer topic Ronald Matarrita's rights from Alajuelense.
Next in line
Sports Illustrated's Grant Wahl is reporting that LA Galaxy assistant coach Curt Onalfo is the favorite to take over for departed boss Bruce Arena.
The heat is on
Chicago Fire GM Nelson Rodriguez admits that pressure is rising for them to make the offseason moves necessary to compete next season.
Into the spotlight
New York Red Bulls boss Jesse Marsch says Designated Player attacker Gonzalo Veron will play a bigger role for the team next season.
They've got next?
ESPN's Eric Gomez says that Liga MX may put together an All-Star team of their own to face off with the MLS All-Stars next summer.
Call-waiting
New York City FC attacker Tommy McNamara says he's waiting on a call-up from either the US national team or the Republic of Ireland.
He got fame
Vancouver super supporter Kenton Doust has already beaten cancer, and now he's making a name for himself as a special inclusion in EA FIFA17.
MLSsoccer.com Musts:
Watch LIVE: Thursday's MLS Cup pregame press conference
Armchair Analyst: Speed will be a key factor in MLS Cup
Watch: Nicolas Lodeiro's top moments of the season
