FC Dallas removed from "MLS is Back" tournament

FC Dallas midfielder Edwin Cerrillo exits medical testing
prior to the start of the "MLS is Back" tournament.
Photo courtesy of Major League Soccer 
and Paul-Michael Ochoa.

By Robert H Kelly

Copyright 2020 All Rights Served

DALLAS, TEXAS (July 6, 2020) It is being reported by ESPN.com and various other news sources that FC Dallas has been removed from the "MLS is Back" tournament due to ten players and one staff member testing positive for COVID-19. In a prepared statement, Dallas head coach Luis Gonzalez was quoted:

“As we continue to focus on the well-being of our players, coaches and staff who are in isolation in Orlando, we understand it is not in their best interests to compete at this time. While we’re disappointed, the health and safety of our traveling delegation as well as our league partners is our highest priority.”

The statement also indicated the team will cooperate with MLS and local health officials, both in Florida and Texas, on a plan that can safely bring the team back to Frisco in a way that minimizes risk of exposure to all parties involved and ensures their safety. FC Dallas team president Dan Hunt was quoted:

“We absolutely agree with the league’s decision to withdraw FC Dallas from the MLS is Back Tournament out of safety concerns for our players and staff. We’re looking forward to resuming the 2020 season once the entire club is healthy and in position to play competitive matches at the highest level.”

In June, the National Women’s Soccer League had member team Orlando Pride withdraw from the NWSL's Challenge Cup due to COVID-19 concerns.