Football Season Guide

DC United

In


Yamil Asad (mid) VĂ©lez Sarsfield, Edison Flores (mid) Morelia, Julian Gressel (mid) Atlanta United

Out


Antonio Bustamante (mid) released, Wayne Rooney (att) Derby County, Leonardo Jara (att) Boca Juniors, Luciano Acosta (mid) Atlas

DC's last campaign was defined by defensive bulk, with the team ending the season with only 38 goals conceded from 34 games. That record was the best in the conference and the second best in the league. It came down largely to 5 consecutive clean sheets at the end of the regular season. Despite making the play offs, DC fell apart against Toronto, losing 5-1 in extra time. Up front, DC struggled. Wayne Rooney's early form helped lead the forward line but his barren spell toward the end of the season, 13 goals without a win. left DC somewhat stuck for ideas. Peru international Flores was a key close season addition, adding another attacking dimension to the team, supporting strikers from the attacking midfield slot. But DC have failed to add a key centre forward to lead the line and could struggle in this regard. Hamid will be key to maintaining the defensive record following a superb campaign last time out. He has now joined DC permanently following the conclusion of his loan spell.

Target


With their solid base from last season, anything less than a play-off finish will be seen as a failure. But, with a lack of new signings in key attacking areas, DC will need to rely on significant tactical changes to push on.