MacMath Loan Highlights Union Goalkeeping Shakeup
By Kevin Kinkead
PHILADELPHIA (CBS) -- The Philadelphia Union had been trying to move Zac MacMath for the better part of six months.
But with no clubs willing to make a serious offer for the fifth-year goalkeeper, the Union will instead settle for a loan deal and send MacMath to the Colorado Rapids in exchange for a draft pick.
MacMath is on a guaranteed contract this year, which served as a red flag for potential suitors. If he has a good season in Commerce City, then theoretically his value will increase upon completion of the loan. If MacMath doesn't see a lot of playing time, the Union would let the season-long loan expire and not pick up his contract option for 2016.
Changes to the Union goalkeeping situation don't stop there, however.
Sources tell CBS 3 the club still plans to loan out backup goalkeeper Andre Blake. The Jamaica international was picked number one overall in the 2014 SuperDraft, but saw limited minutes in his rookie season, stuck behind MacMath and summer signing Rais Mbolhi on the depth chart.
As far as the rumors surrounding Mbolhi, I'm told there are no plans to sell the Algeria international. Mbolhi will rejoin the team following the Africa Cup of Nations and be the starting goalkeeper on opening day. The club will also sign a backup who can cover for Mbolhi while he is away on international duty throughout the season.
Ironically enough, the Union start the season against MacMath and the Rapids on March 7th at PPL Park. However, major league soccer rules do not allow loaned players to compete against their parent club.
