Minnesota United officially concluded their preseason training in Florida this Friday with a game against Orlando City SC. During the week, the Loons welcomed back the final group of lads who were finishing off their international duty.
“The guys have been playing nice and it’s always nice to watch some highlights when you are away and see people scoring and smiling, so of course we are going to continue that,” said midfielder Robin Lod after returning from his international duty with Finland.
The Loons are beginning to round into form, slowly but surely. With three wins and a loss in preseason, the team is nitpicking what they need to improve as a whole to get to the next level.
“It’s just always important to get results. It gives you confidence, it gives great confidence for the team,” said defender Jukka Raitala. “We have a big roster, a lot of games coming up, so I think it’s important everyone stays fit and sharp and ready to play.”
This week, the team welcomed yet another new player, Ramón “Wanchope” Ábila. The Loons had been working long and hard to sign Ábila and now that he is officially a Loon, the team is thrilled to have him.
“When the opportunity arose, we thought it was something that we must take,” said Head Coach Adrian Heath. “Being the #9 for Boca Juniors comes with certain sorts of pressure and he’s coped with living up to that. If he can score the goals we think he will, we think he’s going to be another great piece for us.”
Ábila has yet to set foot in Minnesota, but until then he’s getting to know the team, style of play and of course, catch up with his old friend Emanuel Reynoso.
“I got to know it [Minnesota United] from what Bebelo [Emanuel Reynoso] told me,” said the Argentine. “From how it was, what the team had accomplished last season. And upon seeing the facilities and the league and all of that, so all of that attracted me to come and compete and accomplish important things.”
With newcomer Ábila on board, the Loons faced Orlando City SC for their final preseason game. Jan Gregus, Romain Metanire and Lod joined the team’s starting lineup for the match. Both teams fought hard for the win, but the Loons ended up short. The Loons found themselves with their first loss of the preseason, losing 3-2 against the Lions.
With preseason over, the Loons are now looking forward to the start of their fifth season. Next week, Minnesota travels to Seattle for their season opener to play against the Seattle Sounders on Friday, April 16. Make sure to follow Minnesota United’s social channels and check our website at mnufc.com for regular updates on the club.
