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OCTOBER 23 2024 – PORTLAND, OR: MLS Vancouver Whitecaps FC at Portland Timbers by Diego G Diaz.
Good luck to Evander in his new role with FC Cincinnati in Queen City! Meanwhile, manager Phil Neville is back in action, ready to lead his team into another thrilling campaign in Rose City.
The Timbers have strategically rebuilt their roster and are primed for an electrifying season. The new faces are not just here to fill spots; they are here to make an impact and elevate our game for the passionate and loyal fanbase that supports us.
This season, the Timbers proudly welcome Costa Rican Ariel Lassiter, the powerful Venezuelan Kevin Kelsy, Ecuadorian international Joao Ortiz, Colombian defender Jimer Fory, and Portuguese talent David Da Costa. Together, they will fortify Neville’s starting eleven and enhance their competitiveness on the field.
On paper, this team is formidable, and once these players develop their chemistry during matches, fans can expect nothing short of a spectacular show. Portland fans are in for a treat as we bring excitement and intensity, showcasing the hard work and dedication of our Timbers.
Phil Neville and his squad understand there is no room for error as they embark on this journey in Major League Soccer. Neville is preparing his players to reclaim the dynamism and energy that once defined his tenure in the English Premier League.
Kevin Kelsy, with his European experience from Shakhtar Donetsk and FC Cincinnati, is ready to make a significant impact with the Timbers. Meanwhile, David Da Costa must quickly adapt to Major League Soccer and establish strong connections with his teammates to fill the gap left by Evander’s departure.
This reporter have high expectations for Jimer Fory, the Timbers’ U-22 standout, and believes Joao Ortiz, at 28 years old and serving as a defensive midfielder, will assert his influence this season without overshadowing Diego Chara.
Ariel Lassiter is set to become a crucial asset off the bench. His playmaking ability will inject the necessary enthusiasm and dynamism into games that demand an extra spark.
With the return of Jona Rodriguez, Santiago Moreno, Antony, Diego Chara, Felipe Mora, the Timbers are ready to display more dynamism and soon Da Costa get in the ring, believe me, we will see a beautiful and one-of-a-kind game.
Congratulations to Ian Smith, the draftee from the University of Denver being promoted to the team’s first team but in the end the team needs to address its academy and promote its players not only to the first team. The need to see Sawyer Jura, Tyler Gregg, and other players is imperative for this club long-term success.
In conclusion, Phil Neville is committed to turning the Portland Timbers into a powerhouse and taking us back to the postseason. I have complete confidence in Neville and his new roster as they gear up for a fiercely competitive 2025 season.
Anticipate an exhilarating 2025 for the Portland Timbers, because, under Neville’s leadership, they are poised for greatness. This season will be filled with thrilling moments, and the Timnbers are ready to make our mark.
In the end, there’s one way to find out and with no doubt, this reporter believe in the 2025 Portland Timbers!
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OCTOBER 25 2024 – BEAVERTON, OR: MLS 2024 MLS Season ending press conference by the Portland Timbers (photos by Diego G Diaz).