Football Season Guide

Philadelphia were the only MLS team to collect more points than Cincinnati’s 65 last season, when they finished second in the East. They beat Columbus after three games in the first round of the playoffs, but were thrashed 4-0 at home by reigning champions Inter Miami in the conference semi-finals. Managed to keep hold of all their undisputed starters and filled the gaps that were created after parting ways with some backup players. Opted for maintaining the team’s balance by avoiding a squad overhaul, with leaves winger Bryan Ramírez as the only signing that could be thrown straight into the starting XI. Cincinnati will now look to improve in attack after a mediocre season in terms of goal production. Despite boasting the likes of Evander and Kevin Denkey, who combined for 33 goals, they lacked more options when it came to scoring or creating, as the 52 goals scored in regular season was only eighth-best in the East. In Evander, Cincinnati boasts one of the finest playmakers in the competition. Meanwhile, only two teams conceded more goals than their 40 last season, with Cincinnati keeping 12 clean sheets, meaning that defence is an area they can rely on. It’s hard to pinpoint a flaw in this team, but Cincinnati need to get more from their wingbacks, who are going to play a big role in the offensive production, as this position is particularly important within their 3-4-1-2 scheme.