Manny Lagos is the head coach of Minnesota United FC, and he joined Jill Riley and Sean McPherson in the studio ahead of Saturday's home opener versus the San Antonio Scorpion. Kickoff is at 7 p.m. at the National Sports Center in Blaine, Minn.

Minnesota United, currently part of the North American Soccer League (NASL), have made headlines recently for their plans to join Major League Soccer (MLS) in 2018. "Right now is such an exciting time for soccer," Lagos says.

Lagos enjoyed a long professional career, having played for the MLS clubs NY/NJ MetroStars, Chicago Fire, Tampa Bay Mutiny, San Jose Earthquakes and Columbus Crew. He was also a member of the 1992 U.S. Olympic team. He retired as a player in 2005 and entered the coaching and administrative side of the game, returning to his native Minnesota. "I come from a family that's loved this sport and loved this community," he says, "[and I have] a father who's been a great pioneer for soccer not only locally but nationally."

Looking ahead to Saturday's match, Lagos expects an "amazing atmosphere," and he expects a good outing from his entire side, and mentions Miguel Ibarra (who also plays for the U.S. national team) and Christian Ramirez, "A great California kid who came to us a couple years ago, leading scorer in the league last year, great forward, great young talent."

Lagos also gives credit to Minnesota United's loyal fans, including the Dark Clouds superfan group. "They're so clever, they're so smart," he says, "and they're very talented artistically."

Listen to the entire interview to hear more with Manny Lagos.

The Current and Minnesota United FC are teaming up this season, and there's even a special The Current section at the National Sports Center. This weekend, there will even be a bus that will take fans from the Amsterdam Bar & Hall in St. Paul to the National Sports Center in Blaine. More information is available here.

Related

• Minnesota United FC