On today’s episode, we’re celebrating Hispanic Heritage Month, which runs Sept. 15-Oct. 15.
Our three hosts begin the show talking about their heroes. Alejandro Bedoya shares his admiration for footballer Carlos "El Pibe" Valderrama – hair and all – and what it was like to meet the Colombian icon (2:00). Meghan Klingenberg reveals which USWNT legend’s jersey (6:10) she grew up wearing.
Then, USMNT and Seattle Sounders midfielder Cristian Roldan joins Bedoya to talk more about the impact of Hispanic heritage on their game (10:40) and the upcoming World Cup in the United States, Canada, and Mexico. Roldan discusses his early soccer memories, the community in Pico Rivera, California where he grew up (14:30), the influence of his Latin heritage on his playing style and which delicacy he craves the most (27:00).
The hosts close the show taking questions from supporters with Ask the Pros presented by O’Reilly’s (29:15) where Klingenberg reveals the latest fusion she’s cooking up in the kitchen (34:50).
Hosts: Alejandro Bedoya, David Gass, Meghan Klingenberg
Guest: Cristian Roldan
Producer: Matt Nelson
To learn more, visit ussoccer.org/podcast
The U.S. Soccer Podcast is a production from U.S. Soccer hosted by David Gass, Meghan Klingenberg and Alejandro Bedoya. The podcast tells stories in service to soccer and the people who live it, amplifying player voices and the stories behind the game. Episodes drop weekly on Wednesdays.