Happy Fourth of July, Footy Fans 🇺🇸⚽
While you’re firing up the grill and dodging rogue fireworks, we’ve got something just as explosive: a special edition of Footy Fix packed with hot takes, bold advice, and stars rising under the summer spotlight.
From Diego Luna’s humble words after a brace, to Landon Donovan trying to win hearts (again), and Muller telling the rest of the world to toughen up—this week’s issue is all about what it really means to represent the U.S. on the global stage.
Before you light that next sparkler, dig in.
What’s inside this week’s Footy Fix…?
Diego Luna spoke about what it means to play for USMNT.
Herculez Gomez on Johnny Cardoso’s problems with USMNT.
Landon Donovan is telling it all in his book.
Thomas Muller says no excuse to the heat at the Club World Cup.
Eddie Pope gives advice to the current USMNT generation.
Cobi Jones on what USMNT need to succeed at the World Cup.
“It’s An Honor.”
Diego Luna on What It Means to Play for USMNT
Diego Luna scored a brace to send USMNT to the Gold Cup final. His post-game comments are winning over the fans as well, with him saying he’s grateful for the opportunity and everyone on the team has dreamt of this since they were a kid.
Our take on the situation: Luna is having a phenomenal 2025. He now has three goals and four assists for USMNT this year, he could very well be a starter at the World Cup next summer.
Where is Johnny Cardoso?
Herculez Gomez on Johnny Cardoso’s Problems for USMNT
Johnny Cardoso impressed for Real Betis and is set for a big move to Atletico Madrid. But he hasn’t looked good for USMNT and only has played 11 minutes in the Gold Cup. Herculez Gomez breaks down what’s wrong with him— it’s mental.
Our take on the situation: Herc is right. Johnny has done well at high level in club football. It’s more of a mental problem that he can’t translate it for USMNT.
Not Enough of Hearing from Landon Donovan?
Landon Donovan is Telling It All in His Book
Landon Donovan is making a lot of noise in the USMNT fanbase with his podcast and his analysis on FOX Sports. He is also now releasing a book to talk about his story.
Our take on the situation: Donovan is a legend for American soccer fans, but people are getting turned off by his comments lately. Will his book win back the fans or make them hate him more? We will see.
No Excuses
Thomas Muller Says If He Can Do It, Anyone Can
“We are professionals. We have to be in shape,” Thomas Muller said about heat at the Club World Cup. “If an almost 36-year-old guy like me can run 90 minutes, then everybody should do it. So no excuses.”
Our take on the situation: Players and clubs have been speaking out about the heat in the U.S. So it’s interesting to see an older player like Muller saying something different. He also needs to adapt to this climate, as he is set to stay in the U.S. and play in MLS after this.
“If They Don’t Play, Then They’re Useless.”
Eddie Pope Gives Advice to Current USMNT Generation
Eddie Pope plays in three World Cups, so he has a lot of experience. His advice to the current players is simple. If you want to play in a World Cup, you have to find a club that will play you constantly.
Our take on the situation: Pope is right. There are players like Gio Reyna and Matt Turner who desperately need club minutes or they will warm the bench at the World Cup. Will they make the right moves this summer?
“You Don’t Get Unconditional Support If You’re Bad.”
Cobi Jones on What USMNT Need to Do to Succeed at World Cup
Cobi Jones is the player with most USMNT appearances. In his time, it’s all about grinding and working hard for USMNT players. He recognizes that the times have changed, and USMNT players need to change too if they want to perform well at next summer’s World Cup.
Our take on the situation: Jones is a legend, and he still follows the game closely as he is a pundit for FOX Sports, so he knows how the modern game has changed. Let’s see if the players can follow his advice.
That’s it for this week’s Footy Fix – now go enjoy your hot dogs, cold drinks, and fireworks.
If you loved what you read, share it with someone who’s yelling “I BELIEVE” at the TV every time the USMNT plays.
And if you didn’t love it… that’s un-American. (Kidding. Sort of.)
We’re building something special here at GOLZ TV—a place where real fans shape the culture. Stick with us as we ramp up to the 2026 World Cup. The party’s just getting started. 🎆
Until next week,
—The GOLZ Team