On Episode 26, Jeff Carlisle said it would be interesting to see how Freddy Adu would fare in Europe, and it looks like we'll be able to find out. It has been reported that Adu is on the verge of signing a 5-year deal with Portuguese club Benfica.

My off-the-cuff reaction: this has the potential to be a great move for Adu. He will get to play (assuming, of course, he actually plays and doesn't just ride the bench) on one of the elite teams in Portugal, against generally good quality competition. But, Portugal doesn't have as intense a league as England or Italy. So the pressure on him to perform should be tolerable, which bodes well for his development.

We've seen what Adu can...uhh, do...for the US U-20 team. How will he play against some of Europe's best? Benfica will play in the Champions League 3rd qualifying round on Aug. 14/15 and 28/29, so if his deal goes through in time we could get an idea pretty soon.

--Scott

In this special episode, Scott speaks with ESPNsoccernet.com columnist Jeff Carlisle. They discuss the US national team's experience at Copa America, which players from that tournament you should watch for, why playing in Europe may not be the best move for up-and-coming players, and more!

Questions or comments? E-mail scpodcast@gmail.com.

Scott and Bill are back with Soccer Champions! We discuss what is likely to be the transfer of the summer: Thierry Henry to Barca. Is it for the best? And how is Arsenal coping?

Also, Real Madrid's remarkable turnaround, and how much their coach Fabio Capello had to do with it. Did he deserve being fired after leading them to the La Liga title in his first year? (answer: probably not)

Also discussion of Copa America and the US's participation in it, a different kind of football in Europe, and a listener e-mail.

Want to get your soccer opinion heard? Our e-mail box is always open! Write us at scpodcast@gmail.com.