After taking a big leap forward in 2022, FC Dallas head into the new MLS campaign looking to leave their mark.
The Texas side returned to the MLS Cup Playoffs in style, finishing third in the Western Conference and boasting the second-best defensive record in the entire league – only the Philadelphia Union conceded fewer goals (26) than their (37).
Head coach Nico Estevez has found a formula that works and, powered by some of the most exciting young players in Major League Soccer, Dallas should once again find themselves as contenders in 2023.
So, here’s everything you need to know about FC Dallas ahead of the new MLS season, including tactics, key players, and predictions.
Transfers in
|
Player |
Former Club |
Fee |
|---|---|---|
|
Geovane Jesus |
Cruzeiro |
Undisclosed |
|
Sebastien Ibeagha |
LAFC |
Free transfer |
|
Ryan Wittenbrink |
Indiana Hoosier |
SuperDraft |
|
Kameron Lacey |
Charlotte 49ers |
SuperDraft |
|
Herbert Endeley |
Indiana Hoosier |
SuperDraft |
|
Amet Korca |
HNK Gorica |
Undisclosed |
|
Jose Mulato |
Deportivo Cali |
Undisclosed |
Transfers out
|
Player |
Club Joined |
Fee |
|---|---|---|
|
Franco Jara |
Belgrano |
Free transfer |
|
Matt Hedges |
Toronto FC |
Free transfer |
|
Eddie Munjoma |
Phoenix Rising |
Free transfer |
|
Kalil ElMedkhar |
Loudoun United |
Free transfer |
|
Ryan Wittenbrink |
Hailstorm FC |
Free transfer |
|
Beni Redzic |
– |
Released |
|
Thomas Roberts |
– |
Released |
|
Nicky Hernandez |
– |
Released |
|
Lucas Bartlett |
– |
Released |
|
Nanu |
Porto |
End of loan |
|
Joshue Quinonez |
Barcelona SC |
End of loan |
Hailing from Spain and having worked at Valencia during their heyday under Rafa Benitez, Nico Estevez has learned his trade from some of the best around.
It’s no surprise, then, that Dallas fully committed to a disciplined yet very fluid position style of play – fluid in that every player performed their role brilliantly, making the collective function as a well-oiled machine.
In their 4-3-3- system, FC Dallas negated their previous defensive misgivings by dominating the ball and making sure there were no gaps for counter-attacks when possession was turned over. Going forward, Dallas won the ball back high and were monstrous in transition with the speed from Jesus Ferreira, Alan Velasco, and Paul Arriola.
It ain’t broke, so don’t expect Estevez to fix it this season.
FC Dallas predicted XI (4-3-3): Paes; Twumasi, Martinez, Tafari, Farfan; Quignon, Pomykal, Lletget; Arriola, Ferreira, Velasco.
Alan Velasco
FC Dallas have an abundance of excellent attacking options at their disposal, but none are as talented as Alan Velasco.
The 20-year-old Argentina youth international…
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