Football Season Guide

Finished sixth in the East, but they were eliminated at hands of MLS reigning champions Inter Miami in the first round of the playoffs. Only two MLS teams picked up more points at home than Nashville (36), who lost just three times at Geodis Park. Their main success came outside the MLS, as they won the first trophy in franchise history by clinching the US Open Cup. Parted ways with several fridge players who didn’t contribute much, but also lost an ageing Walker Zimmerman, who struggled with fitness and form last term. Their biggest signing is that of a highly-skilled Cristian Espinoza, who joins to strengthen their attack following the departure of an inconsistent Jacob Shaffelburg. Depth at the back could be a source of concern if injuries occur during the season, as Zimmerman, who had been the leader of the defence but gradually lost his spot in starting XI due to the aforementioned issues, was replaced by a relatively unknown Maxwell Woledzi. Having combined for 42 goals last season, Sam Surridge and Hany Mukhtar are considered one of the finest attacking duos in the league. Add Espinoza to the equation and this attack has the potential to terrorise opposition defences. There are no major weaknesses to this Nashville side, but what they should definitely improve if they want to finish higher in the table is their form away from home after winning just five of their 17 games on the road last season.