In the first 2016 episode of Hinton Unleashed, Prost Amerika video columnist Alan Hinton addressed comments about his support and quotes for an upcoming book (Cup Bound and Crowned) on the Timbers’ championship run.
He went on to talk about the managerial intrigue in Europe, Jordan Morris’ training in Germany and urged Tim Howard to consider finishing his career in MLS.
Hinton’s quotes in Cup Bound and Crowned
“A lot of fans agreed with me that the Cascadia team rivalry is better with Portland winning the (MLS) Cup.”
The former NASL player/manager and current Seattle Sounders FC ambassador responded to the critics about his comments supporting the Timbers.
Hinton’s thoughts on the Cascadia rivalry will be included in Cup Bound and Crowned, which is due to be released in late January/early February.
He didn’t back down in acknowledging Portland’s winning campaign, and eagerly looked forward to the first regular season matchup between the Sounders and Timbers.
European managerial intrigue
“I’m not surprised. I did call it that Zidane would be taking over from Benitez at Real Madrid.”
Hinton predicted the change at Real Madrid after Rafael Benitez’s issues on-and-off the pitch. He expects the charismatic Zinedine Zidane to bring a tough personality to his new role at Real Madrid’s new manager.
Pep Guardiola announced he would be leaving Bayern Munich as the end of the current season. He expressed his desire to continue his coaching career in England.
Hinton speculated that if Arsene Wenger’s Arsenal side wins the English Premier League title, the Frenchman may retire and Guardiola would take over the manager’s role with the Gunners.
Jordan Morris turns pro
“Now, the issue is who will turn pro for? My hope is that it will be for the Sounders.”
Shortly after winning the College Cup with Stanford, Jordan Morris headed over to Germany to train with Werder Bremen.
The Prost Amerika columnist cautioned Morris to consider the fate of Edson Buddle. The former MLS forward made a similar decision to pursue a career with a German team on the edge of relegation. Buddle played for FC Ingolstadt 04 and was released after one year.
Hinton thought the 21-year-old striker would be better off playing with his home town Seattle Sounders FC team.
