Photo: theoffside.com
I want to follow up on my last blog post and a few of the comments (I try to read them all – thanks) associated to this branding me as a bit of a “sore looser” in reference to the Dynamo game.
Whatever I have said, or will say, about the quality of the stadium in Houston I want to be very clear and say that it had nothing to do with the outcome of the game. Both Seattle and Houston played on the same pitch and had exactly the same circumstances, and even if it was a handball it does not matter at all as the referee has ruled which we all accept as professionals. Therefore I say it again, it was a fair win for Dynamo.
The point I am trying to make is to raise questions in reference to what is good or bad for MLS (also adressed in my second column on ESPN´s US soccer site, released friday) as all of us involved are interested in seeing the League grow and benefit all teams in the future. I will therefore use my experience and continue to highlight issues I think need to be changed or improved in order to support the development of our League.
The League and Players Union are in discussion in reference to a new collective bargaining agreement as the current one expires this winter and one thing I know is that all the Players want to get FIFA rules. Except for the U.S. every country and player in the world of soccer has accepted these rules, to my knowledge even really small Leagues with minimum salaries. So what I am trying to highlight is that all we want as Players is to show the high quality of soccer that is being played in the US. If we are not getting the chance to do that I will be telling you why, as I see it, as I have done recently in reference to the quality of the pitch in Houston. A bit of inside information for you is that after the last game several of the Dynamo players apologized for the state of their pitch, which I think was a very nice gesture and underlines my point.
There are so many talented young U.S. players and foreign players in the league who deserve better conditions in order to be able to show their quality. Even if the MLS is a very young League compared to a lot of others around the world it is doing well, but as a player you need to feel sure that you can pass the ball without it flying everywhere and having proper soccer lines in the correct colours which is something much smaller Leagues internationally are adamant about. I sincerely feel that for MLS to be able to elevate its recognition Internationally this is a very important factor!!
People come to watch soccer games live for entertainment, but if the pitches are not good enough so that Players can’t perform to their best ability they will say that the MLS standard is not good enough. I have personally, numerous times tried to promote the MLS in Europe, but when they see for themselves on TV that NFL lines are remaining during our games they laugh and say that it is not professional.
With all that said I have great belief in the future of soccer in the US and am ready to work hard together with the MLS and all the Players!
Off for a short holiday … where do you think I am? (will choose a winner who receives a signed cap)
//F
Comments (106)
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"Top 5" stadiums in the world
Started thinking about the five best football stadiums I ever played at and came up with my personal “top 5″ list that I wanted to share with you.
"Top 5" stadiums in the world
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hey freddie, just wanted to say please keep writing and doing so openly. whether or not people agree, it’s always refreshing read about the league i love from a credible and unfiltered source. although i’m likewise not a fan of the george foreman grill pitches, i must say i’m pleased with where the league (and it’s pitches) are now, when compared to only ten years ago. all i ask for is progress, however small and yet nonetheless real. my patience will not, however, last for another decade. but i’m a fan and not a player, so i appreciate to hear a player’s view of things. anyways, this is your blog so i’ll leave my two cents at that. btw, my tip is you’re in chicago. i recall you saying you enjoyed that city and maybe you returne? if you allow me one more guess, i’d say vancouver only b/c i’ve heard it’s beautiful and never’ve been. thanks!
Freddie-Thanks for being a great ambassador for the MLS and trying to promote it over in Europe the way that you have. I would also like to see the MLS jump on board with FIFA rules. I don’t see a reason for the MLS to keep doing their own thing while the whole world is following the same rules. Thanks again for bringing class, enthusiasm, and professionalism to the MLS (especially to our Sounders!). I can’t wait to see you and the rest of the guys take ‘em all next season! I think you’re in Sweden for the holidays with your family.
Well put, playing professional games on a sub-par field is a disgrace to the sport and every single player, staff member or fan who has poured their heart and soul into the game.
To me, it shows a lack of respect and I can see how people would have trouble taking the sport seriously if MLS can’t even take pitch lines and pitch health seriously for professional games.
There is no excuse for American football lines on the pitch during a professional MLS game. There is no excuse for playing in a “sandbox” during a playoff game. And there is no excuse for some of the horrible officiating we have seen in far too many MLS games.
Thank you Freddie for speaking out on this issue, the beautiful game in America needs more people like you.
I think you are in South Africa on holiday.
Money has a lot to do with it. Down here in Florida, some college football is played in Pro football stadiums and the endzones are often painted the logo of the pro team, even during college games. To the owners, pro sports make more money than college so it’s a non-issue.
I also found it interesting when the USA initially started to lobby for the World Cup, they sent out a list of prospective stadiums and the first refusals came from the huge college stadiums. There simply isn’t the support yet and with that comes money.
With the addition of world class players like you, standards will raise as will the demand for quality. When players like you bring these issues to light then the league will hopefully be forced to address them. I imagine you know better than anyone what is keeping world stars from the MLS and I greatly appreciate you voicing your opinion. You could be on the front line of a change in American soccer culture.
Where would someone from Sweden, living in the US with ties to England be? Anywhere in the world. I’ll go with somewhere warm….Hawaii – Though don’t know why you would be on the computer rather than snorkling.
I need to change where you are….You’re where I wish I could be right now. Since I already picked a place, it wouldn’t be fair. Enjoy it for me since there is nothing like ‘em in Florida.
Halo Freddie. Anyone could clearly see that the playing surface was not suitable for a high school match, yet alone an important MLS playoff game. And the fact that a top notch MLS team such as Houston has to play their home games in those conditions is disheartening. But with your continued efforts to keep this train moving, their is no doubt the league can reach new heights.
As for your current whereabouts. Being an international man of travel, you could be anywhere. Hong Kong? Turkey? The safeway in Covington where I live? Don’t know. But all I care about is where you will be on March 2010. In X Box pitch in Seattle kicking off the start to a championship season!
Freddie, you must be in Sweden?
Well Freddy, let me take a guess,
Boarding at Whistler/Blackcomb ?
Great explanation, although we diehard football fans and explayers know the frustration you must be going through(poor officiating,lines on the pitch,pitch quality and lack of respect from a lot of American fans)
Richard
I like the way you’re never afraid of letting the world know your opinions. Keep up the good work! Wish you were in Halmstad to discuss your future, but my guess in London to talk to the Boss.
Great thoughts, Freddie. I think it is a general goal of Don Garber and MLS to make sure that all stadiums are up to professional standards within the next few years. I think New England is the exception, sadly, because of the money and power that is behind the owners.
As for your holiday….I would guess the South of France.
Freddie, I think we all appreciate the honest voice. Helping the MLS grow is something we can all get behind. The quality at Houston was laughable. I have been arguing all year that Qwest should stay with field turf only because it wouldn’t be fair to run you guys out there after the Seahawks tear it up. Also, If Qwest is willing to remove their lines weekly, New England should do the same. The only positive aspect of those lines was knowing just how far out Montero was when he hit that shot.
As for your vacation, (or holiday), I am going with Switzerland
Thanks for sharing your thoughts, and I agree with you 100%. While it’s great that qwest field removes the NFL lines, I’m wondering if playing on field-turf gives almost the same negative image to the sport in the US. Of course, the field could never be shared if it wasn’t field turf. Just wondering how you feel the quality of the Seattle field is in the eyes of the rest of the world.
Las Vegas?
Thank you so much for a great season! Your player insight is helpful and I agree that the league needs to put in some better rules for the pitch and field size. Hope you have a great few month to yourself… enjoy vacation… Mexico??
FREDDIE I AM sad that you’re on vacation, BUT EXPECT TO SEE WRITE AGAIN, I THINK that you’re coming to London to visit friends and family, also to go shopping for Christmas, then surely for a place to MAKE WITH HEAT BEAUTIFUL BEACHES AND THE SEA, AUSTRALIA, SOUTH AMERICA, THE CARIBBEAN, do not know, when you’re BACK, WRITE Where have you been, PLEASE, I LOVE AND ENJOY YOUR deserved vacation, SEE YOU SOON
Freddie, I think you should holiday is the beautiful pacific northwest! =)
Hej hej! Great blogg post. Good to hear your opinions. And thanks for being part of MLS.
I think you might be boating off the coast of Washington.
Ha det bra!
I think it’s very good that you point out different ways to improve football in the US. Because right now everyone knows that the league is in a much lower standard than most of the european leagues. And for your holiday, I HOPE you’re in London meeting Arsene, but I have to guess New York just because. Take care.
Freddie, thank you for being so open, honest and caring about not just MLS, but the game of soccer in general. I too am ashamed of the condition f many of our MLS fields. Astroturf? Seriously? And I can only imagine what someone from Europe or South America must think when they see “10, 20, 30″ painted on the field. Keep up the heat, and hopefully MLS will listen and get the idea. I mean, you are Freddie f’in Ljungberg…an EPL icon! MLS should take heed and listen to your wise advice.
Anyway, I love watching you play, you are the very definition of what a competitor is. Youth players would be well served to follow your example. I personally have followed you and been a fan since your arrival at Arsenal. Keep up the good work, enjoy the offseason. I wish you continued good health and Go Sounders!
As for your location…I would guess Vittsjo, Sweden if you went back home. If you went on vacation, then maybe somewhere on the coast of Spain?
Wherever it is, enjoy!
Lets hope you’re hitting some of the fresh snow up at Whistler. That’s where I’d be right now, living so close.
Great post with some very good issues raised. I think quality of the pitch is a big issue that should be addressed.
The best part of your blog and column is that you are candid. Watching soccer on a bad pitch can be painfully boring as it usually results in a battle of the long balls…snore.
Since you are on a short “holiday”(btw much more fun to say than “vacation”), my guess is that you are becoming acclimated to the sites around the PacNW. Perhaps you are enjoying Baker or Whistler as it is that time of year around here.
Either way, I hope you are around to make an appearance at the MLS cup on Sunday at Qwest.
Cheers – Jen
Hey Freddie,
I am in complete agreement that the pitches need to be more uniform and in shared stadiums an effort should be made to make sure each sport has it’s proper lines showing. The NFL would never allow the soccer lines to remain, why shouldn’t it go both ways?
As for your holiday, I hope you are up in the San Juan Islands enjoying the beauty of the Pacific Northwest!
Agreed my good man. I just hope we can get real grass at Quest Field.
In Italy?
Keep up the insightful and honest posts!
Short holiday…hmmmm, I’m thinking Banff.
Hi Freddie! I’m enjoying reading your blog! It’s nice to get some inside perspective on things
My guess is that your in eastern washington touring and tasting wine at all the winerys! LOL Just kidding!(btw, I feel so bad for people with food allergys)
Ok my real guess is that your at Yellowstone National Park! I know, its a long shot, But worth a try!
Well stated. I hope that you are staying close by, Victoria B.C. or the Washington/ Oregon Coast. I was truly pleased that the NFL lines were gone at qwest when we came for the first match after the Seahawks had come in to play. I was worried and fearing embarrassment if they were on the field for the Sounders match.
After a little more thought, I think you are on holiday in those locations but on your boat.
Cheers,
Scott
MLS is a league “young” as my point of view needs more foreign players to the clubs technical contributions …. whether European players because their leagues are consolidated. I further agree that the lines in the Houston area were very unprofessional and unpleasant as it is not Soccer NFL, the fact that the field is provided for both sports do not justify this neglect …. I see the Houston team was right to apologize.
I admire professional players interested in improving soccer in the U.S. … is a very nice gesture on your part.
PD:insurance that you are in England, and he loves this country does not??? or Sweden with his family!
saludos y besos desde Venezuela
Hi Freddie — I enjoy your comments and as a Seattle Sounders season ticket holder, I am thrilled to have you on our team!
My guess is that you’re in London
Erik
Seatte, WA
Freddie – thanks for the comments and promoting MLS and – more importantly – professional, well played soccer.
This year was my first exposure to MLS. In my opinion the two most important things MLS could do right now would be 1) to standardize and improve the pitches and 2) to commit to making MLS officiating world class. I don’t know how you as a player feel about the later, but as a spectator I find the officiating all too often a bad joke.
If there is anything we can do as fans to promote this agenda, please let us know.
Hi Freddie! Thank you for clarifying your position from your last post. Some will post unkind comments about anything that’s not in praise of their team/pitch. However, you answered your critics nicely and that says a lot about your character.
What strikes me most about your posts is your focus on the “big picture” of soccer in the US. You’re not just out there rallying around issues that will provide sole benefit to the Sounders, but to the entire league. You care. And you let us know that the players care too. “I will therefore use my experience and continue to highlight issues I think need to be changed or improved in order to support the development of our League.” That means so much.
A large part of the Sounders’ success is that they listen to their fans, even if what their fans have to say didn’t necessarily coincide with what they initially thought (i.e. the name of our team). We supporters invest time and money in our teams because we want to see beautiful football on quality pitches. Thank you for recognizing that. No wonder why the best FO in the league picked you as our DP. In addition to your undeniable talent, experience, and passion for futbol/soccer, your philosophy aligns with theirs – to raise the standard in the MLS. We are grateful that you are here in Seattle, Freddie!
I’d guess you are having a short holiday in the mountains of the Pacific Northwest. Wherever you go, safe travels!
Great post Freddie, love reading your stuff. You in Bali for holiday
I completly agree. The football lines look tacky, and to me it shows the lack of pride in the game. It get’s confusing for me just watching…I can’t imagine having to play with those lines on the pitch.
So where in the world is Freddie Ljungberg?
Logic would say England or Sweden…but since everyone is saying that I’ll go with somewhere tropical. Somwhere in the Caribbean…maybe St.Barts??? Wherever you are I hope you enjoy your holiday. You deserve it!
Great articles Freddie. It’s great to see a Designated Player that truly is concerned with improving the league, not just here to make a big check.
I’ll assume Victoria, B.C. Hope it’s enjoyable..
Hawaii for sure!
Hi Freddie! Thanks for all of your comments, it’s nice to hear how things are from a players perspective. The mls won’t be taken seriously until the fields are improved, it will take a little time but it will happen. As for your vacation plans? I’m guessing Vancouver or the bahamas! I hope I win, I love you Freddie your my favorite player of all time!
Freddie my best friend says Hawaii, she’s a fan of your as well!
Thanks for the great year Freddie. It’s been exciting to watch your hard work and desire to win on the field. However, I cringe when I see you talking to the refs; you’re too important for our team to have you sent off.
Also, thanks for these posts. I enjoy reading your perspective about the game.
As for your holiday… My guess is that you’re going to Whistler/Blackcomb for the snow. You may as well do it now because the Olympics will be there soon and once that starts there won’t be much chance to hit the slopes without huge crowds.
Being honest about how to improve the league and attract more top quality talent like yourself is always a good thing. We hope you’ll continue to be that voice here in Seattle. In fact I think Seattle in general, can lead that discussion.
I find it unconscionable that FIFA rules, particularly with regard to player contracts, are still not adopted by the MLS. But at a minimum the league should set firm standards on the condition of the pitch and fine any club that cannot meet those basic rules. It’s frustrating for the supporters to watch you guys kick around in a sandy football field.
I wish Qwest had a nice true grass pitch, but at least it’s the high quality turf and NO FOOTBALL lines.
Anyway, I’ll guess you’re London.
Are the American football lines on the pitch the only rule you’d like to see changed? FIFA has sanctioned the turf pitches for use during a few competitions (the U-20 World Cup in Canada for example).
I like that MLS is switching to a standard home and away regular season schedule with the introduction of the Philadelphia team next year, so every team plays every other team twice fairly. That said, I would still prefer to see the current playoff system removed, and see MLS give the big championship to the team at the top of the league table at the end of the season. Then they could move the MLS cup format to be played in tandem during the season like the FA Cup. They could even sell the naming rights to the Cup tournament to bring in some extra revenue for the league, or to offer prize money to the winning club.
Given your recent post about your appreciation for the Bernabeu, I’d guess you’re spending some time in Madrid.
Hi Freddie, we’re behind you on this issue – and hope the league pursues improvements soon. Having a good pitch does make the play better, and I much prefer watching quality passing games that good turf allows. Sandy, uneven ground is a safety concern as well – and it shouldn’t be part of the pro game.
Love that picture you included with your post – always reminds me a field one might find in an anxiety dream before an important game!
As others have said, you could be on holiday anywhere in the world! For us in the NW, November is a good time to either search out the lost warmth of summer or hit the slopes! We’ll see if you’re adapting: snowboarding in BC, or checking the surf on the north shore of Oahu? hope it’s nice
My guess is that you’re hiking up in the Cascades.
Good clarification Freddie, way to take the ammo from your critics! I enjoyed the last month of games more then all the rest of the year, well the first game exempted, because of the total football you were trying to bring to Seattle. I’m guessing you are in the south of Spain enjoying the beautiful beaches and going to catch Il Classico at Camp Nou. Rest up we’ll need you next year!
hmmm… are you in Miami?
Complete guess, but hot people, nice weather, great city…that’s one of the first places I would go if I were visiting America.
Freddie! I think you’re in England! London more specifically.
You’re back in Houston, aren’t you? Just kidding, Sweden.
Hey Freddie, Just wanted to say Congrats on a great year in Seattle. I hope you are enjoying your time here in this great city, and Im guessing you are off exploring the Olympic National Forrest
My guess… you are in and around Vancouver, taking time to enjoy the local area, as you said previously.
Short holiday…then I believe you are still here in the Northwest. While I think Whistler is a strong possibility, to be different I will say you are on the Olympic Peninsula visiting the rain forest, Hurricane Ridge ect…
Not only do I hope you stay in Seattle next year, I hope you will strongly consider staying a couple more years so you will be here in Seattle when Portland and Vancouver BC join the league. If you think we are having fun now, just wait until the Sounders play those teams.
Thank you for a great year!
Freddie, first of all I think that you are on short holiday in Hawaii! Am I right? Enjoy your well deserved holiday.
Anyways, I hope that you continue to speak about the things that the MLS is doing right and the things that need improvement. I think that the voice of a player in your position will resonate if it is heard. I think that nearly everyone agrees about the pitches and that it should be a top priority for the MLS. I read your article on ESPN as well…great write-up.
Hej Freddie,
I agree with you completely about the conditions of some of the pitches in the MLS. Just wanted to say its been a pleasure to watch you play this season and looking forward to the next.
Im betting you went to Vittsjö.
Sénare and thanks for a great season.
Freddie,
Thank you so much for your unbiased opinion on MLS and the state of soccer in the US. I am also pleased that you are so open with us. We so often only get the heavily filtered view of the media. Hopefully, with advice from veterens as yourself, we can continue to see improvement and support for this great sport. I also wanted to thank you for promoting literacy for kids. As an English teacher, I can’t tell you how important it is for kids to have people to look up to.
As for your holiday…I think Forks, WA. Just kidding, actually I agree with everyone who said Whistler…that was my first guess.
Freddy I think you are going to the Virgin Islands?
Freddie – Keep speaking the truth!!!!!
STAY IN LONDON TO VISIT FRIENDS AND YOUR BROTHER, OR A COLD PLACE ENJOY THE SNOWBOARD, or here in Miami ENJOYING THE SUN AND THE HEAT, I love you Freddie
Freddie,
I think you are the best thing to happen to the MLS in years. You genuinely care about improving American soccer, you generate new fans, and your status as a world class players means the MLS management has to listen to your concerns. Keep up the good work.
I absolutely agree that all MLS teams need a proper pitch. American football lines on a soccer pitch makes the MLS look second rate, and it decreased the quality of the game. Hopefully Houston is able to build their new stadium by 2011.
Don’t get discouraged. The MLS has come so far in 13 years. I remember in the inaugural season when every single team played on a field with American football lines, and the late 1990’s when it honestly seemed like the entire MLS would have to fold. Now, the majority of teams have their own soccer specific stadium, and expansion promises to generate exciting regional rivalries: the future of the MLS is bright.
It’s a shame the Sounders lost in the first round of the playoffs – the most exciting part of the season. I was looking forward to the Sounders playing in front of 67,000 in Qwest Field.
I think you are spending a holiday exploring the mountains in the Pacific Northwest, and will make an appearance at the MLS Cup Championship.
Freddie, first off -great season. I hope to see you back here in Seattle next year. Also, good thoughts on the pitch.. Hopefully MLS will step up for 2010 and if not MLS at least some of the clubs with poor pitches.
I think you are in Sydney for holiday. Easy west coast u.s. flight, warm beaches (summer there right now) and very cosmopolitan.
- Bret
Thank you for the intelligent, and articulate clarification. Thank you for not writing MLS off, and seeing the growth and expansion that can take place. As the mother of a 10 year old girl who has the most passion I have ever seen for the game, I hope that these changes will be there when she is ready to expand her horizons. I know that it is mainly a man’s world, but it usually is a dominoe effect down to womens soccer.
I don’t need to guess where you are, because I don’t need anything from you. All I ask is that you have a great holiday in the sunshine.
Freddie, first let me say that when the announcement of you joining the league was announced I had a lot of doubts. Seeing you play in march when Seattle hosted the RSL opening match of the season, I was a bit impressed and as the season went along I thought you were a good player. All of that changed during the MLS All Star match, you became a star in the eyes of many fans, myself included. I covered the match for my blog and your willingness to talk with the media, interact with fans, and be about promoting the game was simply impressive. Then on match day when many players give slightly less than 100%, you were there and giving more than anyone expected. Thank you for 2009 you have made the league better by playing here.
I do think we have to deal with the turf issue, which can cause so many injuries before we get too upset with lines of paint, but we can simply agree to disagree on that one.
There will be a good number of RSL fans up in Seattle this week (Thursday-Tuesday) and I hope that at one of the many cool events that the Sounders, their supporter groups, and the league will be putting on that I see you there. I would like to shake your hand and thank you in person for making our league a better one.
thanks much.
My guess is L.A.!
I don’t think players can ski or snowboard due to insurance, am I wrong? I saw Rio Ferdinand interviewing Roger Federer & Roger said he loves skiing in his off season, Rio said he isn’t allowed. Is that rule typical?
Hey Freddie!
I like that you’re someone who will speak his mind and are a fierce competitor. It’s nice to know that you have high expectations for yourself, the team, and the league!
Looking forward to next year and I hope you’re able to come to the MLS Cup at Qwest if you’re back from vacation….
And I guess that you’re in… Colorado… maybe going back to explore since I think that’s where you had that surgery before the season started, is it not?
This really is a valid and important point you make. The look of our NFL fields are very particular. Whether grass or turf they always look ready for prime time TV ratings. This does need to be addressed by MLS. Faded football lines and yellow soccer lines are not acceptable. The pitch for every game should be ready for top teams and top players around the world. Preparation should be to show off the game as a world class sport and not anything less. The NFL would not settle for that and neither should MLS.
Almost forgot to guess where you are. Chi town, Chicago. Just saying “Chicago” makes me hungry.
Hej Fredde,
Can I just say that I’m SOOO happy that you’ve set up this blog!! Great to hear from you on a regular basis (miss you when Arsenal play!!) =D You just need to come on to Twitter more often
I’m torn between Hawaii & LA (since you love the heat/sun!)…I’m gonna go for LA but pls consider me for a cap if it’s Hawaii!!
Håller tummarna (och allt annat!) att du kommer tillbaka till norra London i vinter!! Det är inte samma utan dej =D
Kramar i massor, Caro – Swindon xxx
Hej Fredrik, trevligt att det går bra för dig på den där sidan av världen…=P Måste säga att jag var lite ledsen när jag hörde att du inte skulle spela i landslaget nå mer men förstår kanske varför… and your dog is sooo cute!
as for the holiday I would say Halmstad or London (visit your friends and family)
well said! i truely enjoy reading you’re blogs and watching you play every weekend – Jag är så glad att du är i Seattle!
Rest up – see you in March.
For your holiday other than the given, Sweden… if you are like all of my Swedish friends I’m going to say you are going to Thailand
but where ever you are going – I hope you have a great holiday!!
Great that a player of your stature is speaking up honestly about some of the things that need to be addressed with MLS. This year in Toronto we are getting rid of the artificial turf and putting in real grass! and we hope the idea of our CFL (American style) football team sharing the pitch is off the table. Keep speaking up.
Look forward to seeing you play when the Sounders come to Toronto again. Sorry you got a beer thrown at you on your first visit. That was embarrassing; usually our supporters just throw streamers… that must have been a Tottenham supporter…
You’re one of the greats and it is an honour to have you in the league.
Cheers
Freddie hi … a treat to greet him!
and understood the double intention of your question, as you do for your fun competitions and a while seeing that country led him …. also the most logical thing is that everyone said London or Sweden, but you are in an unexpected place, to make us think more clearly and not make us fall into the logic (by the way and I fell to the first), I think you may be in a site in Europe, and I get the Greek islands as a good place to go on holiday and relax ……
good wherever you are I hope you enjoy your vacation and bring us pictures ….
Saludos y besitos desde Venezuela
*lauriie!
Thanks Freddie for taking the time to help shape the future of US Soccer.
I think you are in the Ukraine. Enjoy your time off we all look forward to seeing you next season.
Even Thou I am LA Galaxy fan. MLS need you to stay, You have done more for MLS then Beckham ever did. MLS and MLS’s fan need you to remain with that cuz I have feeling you will help MLS to grow. Please stay in MLS!
If you’re a boarder, you should be enjoying Baker!
Dead on regarding the fields. If you want to grow the game, step 1 is to respect the game.
Hey, is that pitch (in the pic) in Munich? I think I went there during WC2006.
Im gonna say you’re in.. Mauritius.
I’m gonna say you’re actually in Seattle still…just taking it easy.
Thanks for a great Season, Freddie. I can’t wait for 2010. BTW, you should come to the ECS End of Season Party in Seattle…end of January…:)
Us Washingtonin’s would hope that you stayed in town for holiday. But maybe you went to Disneyland? Haha or home to see family. Where ever you went have a well deserved break but come back and play for the Sounders.
I think you went to Aspen Colorado
Thank you for trying to improve the MLS. We need more like you.
I hope you’re enjoying your vacation. Here in Seattle the wind is blowing over trees and it’s pouring rain. Welcome to winter!
My guess was initially a ski spot but I’ll change it to: San Francisco!
Freddie, thank you for being a “true” ambassador for MLS and soccer in America in general. I love that you speak freely and openly and how you wear your emotions on your sleeve. It shows that you do care. It was a great year and your stamp on American soccer will be felt for many years to come. Congrats on the First XI honors for 2009 and enjoy your holiday. My guess is you are Holloway watching the Gunners tear up the EPL at the moment
Have a great holiday and hope to see ya next year. (oh and thanks for signing my leg… it did get tattooed. hit me up on twitter @imasounder to see the pic) 
Thanks for the article
i’ll guess Cabo San Lucas marlin fishing
Freddie,
Well said. I think you make some excellent points, and hopefully people will now have a better idea where you were coming from on your previous comments. I’m glad you’re trying to bring awareness to the issue and lead the charge to make all pitches in MLS better to play on.
Are you planning to try and convince the Sounders to switch to grass instead of turf at Qwest? I know Keller has said he’d like them to switch at some point if at all possible. While I don’t mind the turf, I’d love to see real grass out there instead. I’m tired of opponents complaining about it, plus it would help to attract other world-class players such as yourself.
My guess is you’re vacationing in London. Wherever it is, enjoy your offseason and I’m looking forward to watching you again in Rave Green next season! Thanks for all your effort this year!
Come on you Sounders!!!
Jag gissar på Sverige, Halmstad
Hello Freddie. I believe you are in Båstad, even though its november. Have you spoken to Arsene lately? Would be awesome if could join in January. We need your experience and attitude! Hopefully you can make a comeback for Sweden aswell. Hoppas det blir en grym semester.
//Carlos
The playing surface and the American football lines in Houston reflect an inability of the MLS to make a financial commitment to creating an authentic environment and atmosphere for both players and supporters. The sad fact about Houston is that when they get their new stadium, they are going to share it with a college football team…all for the sake of of a couple million dollars. This, to me, is shortsighted and wrong headed. You are lucky to be playing for Seattle, a truly proffesional club, that is serious about achieving results and creating a first class footballing achievements. There are many things I love about the MLS, but their lack of respect for something as fundamental as the pitch and lines is befuddling.
As for where you currently are…I’m not sure it really matters as long as the one you are with makes it a truly enjoyable vacation.
HONESTY! that’s all we as fans want, from the league and the players. and you’re honest. even if it’s not what people are hoping to here. so thank you for that.
as for your vacation, i think you’re down in houston. going to the home of the head groundskeeper of robertson stadium, and secretly at night, going onto his lawn and pouring sand all over it and digging huge holes while sinisterly whispering ” No one messes with my beautiful football pitches and gets away with it!! BWAHAHAHAHAHAHAHA!!!!”
Thanks for speaking your mind. Hopefully, the MLS will see more quality players playing on higher quality pitches.
I believe that you are back in your old London stomping grounds. Enjoy your time off. We are looking forward to seeing you on the XBox pitch in 2010.
Thanks for writing this… I whole heartedly agree, I as a rec soccer coach have to play on the outfield of a baseball field…yuk…
I think you are in Canun for vacation…or Sweden LOL
First off, Freddy thanks for coming to Seattle. I did not know much about you before, but I enjoyed your efforts on the pitch. Please don’t take this the wrong way, but you bring a “working man’s effort” to the pitch that I admire. I hope you return to Seattle, but if you don’t, Thank you for your efforts.
As far as the Houston pitch, did you ever think that was done to slow down the field and players? American football tears up the middle of the field, like a goal box gets from wear and tear. When I watched the game I saw sand filler used heavily on the outside of the field, where Seattle likes to attack with the ball. American football fields never need sanding wide, I can only think that this was done in order to slow down our attack as it is very difficult to run in sand. In the states, some ballfields are groomed to the home team’s advantage, and I think this was the case in Houston.
Anyway, again thank you for your efforts and I hope to see you next season in Seattle to take care of some unfinished business. cheers.
Hey,
I agree. The pitch is everything. I mean, after seeing the Emirates and the Camp Nou by myself..i really don’t like to go to a match here anymore, which is sad. Pitches here are horrible, but there are some good progresses. If our “poor” little country can build more than 10 stadiums in a couple of years, well, the US could do that too! They don’t need a super big stadium, just enough to be professional.
Have a great holiday.. i can’t have one right now! (stuck at work).. i think you’re in Miami btw
Seriously, sand?? I didn’t see that?!?! That’s soo lame, so chelsea!! They used that against Barcelona in 2006, to slow our game as well. It didn’t work.
Thanks for speaking up. I wish that the US would realize that playing soccer on a football field is terrible.
Holiday guess: Costa Rica.
Off for a holiday, eh? I bet you are in Thailand!
LOL at the post about pouring sand on the groundskeepers lawn in Houston!
That & the Disneyland post…. Hey Mr. Ljungberg you were just named to the MLS XI what are you going to do now? I’m going to Disneyland!
If you went to Disneyland make sure to get the endorsement deal… If you are causing trouble deny all & make counter accusations;)
You have made perfect sense, until this issue is address i dont think anyone can take mls seriously!
and we both know your in New York!
You’ve complimented Qwest Field staff for clearing off the lines as opposed to Houston pitch. Though what is your desire for the ideal surface at Qwest Field? I would love to see a proper and permanent natural turf field installed in Seattle even vs temporary sod (ala Chelsea/FC Barcelona games)
France?
Please stay with the Seattle Sounders for a while longer. It is gray at times, but we are, after all, only a few hours’ flight to HAWAII.
(Which island are you on?)
Thanks for working hard to elevate the game! We love having you here in Seattle! I am going to guess you have stayed close, so that you can be here for the MLS finals. Hmmmm… Places you should visit include Cannon Beach, Victoria, Orcas Island, Whistler & Bend… I believe you guys are not allowed to ski while under contract, so that would rule out some of the Seasonally appropriate guesses! I am guessing you are huddled next to a fire storm watching at Cannon Beach!
Where ever you are, I hope you are having a wonderful well deserved break!
I read your blog post from November 10 and to me it was obvious what you meant. I never got the feeling that it was written by a “sore looser”, but sometimes it doesn´t matter how clear you put it cause there will always be someone who´ll read the text their own way.
Thank you for this blog, I use to update my 9-year old son (who says you are his favourite) every time I´ve read it. He has got your autograph in a frame in his room (you were very kind when I met you in the airport in Sweden last year and took your time to write this for him, he loves it! Thank you!!).
My best wishes for you, we´ll keep on following you on this wonderful blog!
Have a nice holiday… in Halmstad to visit your parents perhaps???
Congrats Freddie, best XI, well deserved! I hope you are enjoying your holiday…in L.A.?
Freddie, keep saying your opinion about the game here and don’t give any minor attention to the losers who do not know what soccer is. You have to understand there are people in the U.S. who are only interested in kicking the ball around at the park and enjoy that a lot but do not care about the game, those people are the ones who do not agree with your opinion but keep in mind those people don’t mean a thing to the soccer community because we are not going after them and are not planning to. To play a game and do not get the beauty of it by watching it live and supporting your local league and teams, that tells me those people are not normal. So please KEEP saying your opinion, we finally have a player with some ***** who is talking. Let’s hope more players will challenge some of the cheap owners in the league to wake up.
Freddie I think you are in London visting friends from Arsenal!
Yamz
Thanks for championing this issue, I live for this game and am glad to be able to have a league here to follow. However throughout the season I have been ashamed of/for the MLS on several occasions because of the condition or size of a pitch. I don’t care how you spin it, the outfield of a minor league baseball field is NOT and acceptable field for a professional team!!! This would be unacceptable for any respectable college or high school. How can the MLS allow this and expect to get treated seriously both domestically and abroad. This has to be addressed!
I think you went to vancouver/whistler to see what the olympics have done for the city.
Thanks
This good info for everyone to be able to read. I am really impressed with your views of the league. So much so that I am sharing your link with my friends in Sweden. Take care and keep it up.
I would also say that you should be in Sweden but since that has already been said, I will say DC.
You are in Seattle of course…getting ready to be honored on Sunday for your spectacular first season (one of many to come) playing for SSFC. Well done Freddie!
I wish the MLS had more players of your character. I commend your opinion and ability to speak out on how to improve the league. I agree 100% with the points about field/pitch conditions. It’s refreshing to know there are players like you with such talent for the game, yet are humble and able to see the big picture for the future of leagues and other players. Thank you!
As for the holiday guess, I’m going with Italy. That’s where I would go if I could.
Did not see you with your team mates at the game Sunday night. I change my guess to Sweden to see your family, or Someplace warm… Say St. Marteen. My hubby guesses Cabo!
I agree with you totally. I am an RSL fan in Salt Lake and the first 3 seasons of our exsistance were played on field turf at a college football stadium. I absolutely hate to watch soccer with football lines on the pitch and the pitch was too hard on the players bodies. It is so nice to watch a match on a proper pitch.
I hope Seattle is able to work out a situation where they can play on grass. The thing that really bothers me is that several of the teams that have had the most success in MLS (DC, Houston, New England) are the teams still playing in cavernous football stadiums. Lets get these teams in a real stadium so they can represent the league in a professional environment.
Hi,
I am also concerned with the pitch quality in MLS. I am outraged that the league allows “professional” soccer matches to be played in artificial turf, not to mention with those horrible footbal lines. It is sheer sacrilege to have this game being played on fake grass.
I don’t know how much longer I can come to Sounders games and see that horrible pitch.
Can you comment on this in your next article? Toronto FC recently announced that they will be spending about $3.5 million on a new grass pitch to be ready by 2010. BMO Field currently has an over-used Fieldturf.
It is the most any MLS team has spent on a pitch, and they claim that the pitch would be as good as some of the best pitches in the English Premiership.
It includes a world class irrigation system, and will be kept domed in the winter with full irrigation and artificle UV technology to keep it “summer-like” all year round.
Do you think this is a positive step for MLS? With the Toronto FC organization taking the lead, do you think this will pressure other MLS clubs to make similar investments (including the Sounders)?