Players to watch as SKC return to action

This week on the Shades of Blue Soccer Show we’re talking rumors, new signings, and Sporting KC players to watch as MLS returns to action.

It’s being reported that SKC are leading the way among MLS teams to sign Egyptian star Mo Salah. Fans have heard lofty rumors before, like with Cristiano Ronaldo, but it feels a different this time around. New majority owner Peter Mallouk has been talking a big game. So big, and so publicly, that if Mallouk is NOT serious about his intentions, then he’s put himself in a horrible spot for the future.

Whether or not Mo Salah arrives in Kansas City, there have been three new signings to give SKC fans some optimism in the second half of the season.

The crew gives our CORE Players to Watch as Sporting KC wrap up the 2026 season. Or Blorian has finally arrived along with another centerback in Moises Mosquera. The backline is the biggest issue for SKC so a lot of eyes will be on those two arrivals and how big of an impact they can have.

Who might a reinforced backline benefit? Manu Garcia underperformed – along with everyone else on the roster – in the first half. But Manu is immensely important to this team and if SKC are going to avoid getting the Wooden Spoon, the Spaniard will need to step up.

Having failed to do any advertising during the World Cup, MLS will return to play with midweek matchups for rivalry games! Which means SKC will head across the state to face St. Louis City.

Unfortunately, the World Cup action in KC has come to an end. But we talk about the Quarterfinal match between Argentina and Switzerland, as well as the parties and banderazos around town. Plus, we share our picks for the Semifinals and Final.

Find the KC Soccer Journal wherever you get your podcasts. Please subscribe, rate, & review! Feel free to yell at Cody @ThatCodyTho, Thad @TheBackpost, Carrie @crobbie20, and Robert @SpKCLife.

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The 2026 Shades of Blue Soccer Show is officially sponsored by CORE Outdoor Equipment! Keep an eye out for giveaways and other fun things we will be doing this year, thanks to our new friends.