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D.C. United’s 2025 Season Preview

rjrolsen

What Happened to D.C. United Last Season?


The 2024 MLS season was a rollercoaster for D.C. United. What started as a promising campaign under new leadership quickly unraveled as injuries, inconsistency, and a leaky defense left the Black and Red on the outside looking in come playoff time. While there were moments of optimism under Chief Soccer Officer Ally Mackay and manager Troy Lesesne, the season ultimately served as a harsh reminder of how much work remains to rebuild a once-proud franchise.


A Bright Start Turns Sour


The arrival of Mackay and Lesesne brought renewed hope to a fanbase that had endured years of disappointment. Their energy and tactical approach provided a much-needed shake-up, and the team responded with a solid opening month. D.C. United looked competitive, even in matches against stronger opponents, and Christian Benteke continued to be a force up top.


However, as the season progressed and summer arrived, the squad’s shortcomings became increasingly apparent. Injuries mounted, forcing players into unnatural positions, and the lack of depth was exposed. The defensive struggles, compounded by instability in goal, made it difficult for the team to hold onto leads or keep games close.


A Weak Defense and Goalkeeping Woes


Defense was a major issue for D.C. United throughout 2024. With an already thin backline, injuries only made matters worse. Opponents consistently found gaps in the defense, and the team struggled to put together a consistent, reliable unit in front of an unreliable goalkeeper group.


Goalkeeping, in particular, was one of the team’s biggest weaknesses. D.C. United arguably had one of the worst goalkeeping groups in MLS, which meant that even when the defense held firm, mistakes from the back often led to preventable goals.


Home Struggles and Missed Playoffs—Again


While D.C. United managed some improved play toward the end of the season, it wasn’t enough to salvage a playoff spot. The team found itself on the verge of securing a play-in game as Decision Day approached, but familiar issues resurfaced. Poor home form and a defense that couldn’t hold up under pressure proved costly.


Missing the playoffs for the fifth straight season reinforced the reality that D.C. United remains far from being a true contender. The flashes of improvement under Mackay and Lesesne were encouraging, but the overall product on the field still wasn’t enough to change the team’s fortunes.


An Offseason Overhaul


Recognizing the need for a significant roster shake-up, Ally Mackay wasted no time making changes in the offseason. When D.C. United takes the field against Toronto FC to open the 2025 season, the squad will look drastically different. Only three players remain from Wayne Rooney’s roster, and of those, just two—Christian Benteke and Gabriel Pirani—will be available for the opener.


Veteran players like Mateusz Klich, Pedro Santos, and Cristian Dájome were moved on from as part of the overhaul. The team returns just over 50% of its minutes played from the 2024 season, signaling a clear shift in direction. Mackay’s approach prioritizes fresh legs and a more balanced roster, but whether that translates to on-field success remains to be seen.


Looking Ahead to D.C. United’s 2025 Season


As D.C. United gears up for the 2025 Major League Soccer season, the club has made significant moves in the transfer market, signaling a renewed commitment to competitiveness. After several years of underwhelming performances and playoff absences, the Black & Red are determined to turn the tide. The 2025 roster overhaul reflects a clear strategy of blending experience with youth, aiming to address key weaknesses while building a foundation for sustained success. With a mix of seasoned veterans, promising young talent, and a young head coach in Troy Lesesne, D.C. United is poised to improve in the upcoming season. Here’s a closer look at what fans can expect as the team prepares for a fresh start.


A Revamped Roster: Experience Meets Potential


D.C. United’s front office has been busy in the offseason, making strategic signings to strengthen the squad across all positions. The additions of experienced MLS players like Lukas MacNaughton,  and Randall Leal provide immediate quality and leadership.

MacNaughton, a reliable center-back, brings defensive stability and a wealth of MLS experience, having previously played for Toronto FC and Nashville SC. His ability to read the game and organize the backline will be crucial for a team that has struggled defensively in recent years.


Randall Leal, a dynamic winger, adds creativity and flair to D.C. United’s attack. Known for his dribbling skills and ability to deliver pinpoint crosses, Leal is expected to be a key playmaker in the final third. His experience in high-pressure situations, including playoff runs with Nashville SC, will be invaluable as D.C. United looks to return to postseason contention.

In addition to these seasoned players, the club has invested in young talent with high ceilings. João Peglow, a Brazilian winger, and Hosei Kijima, a Japanese midfielder , represent the future of D.C. United. Peglow, who joins from the Polish first division, is a technically gifted player with excellent vision and passing range. At just 23 years old, he has the potential to become a cornerstone of the team’s attack. Kijima, on the other hand, is a speedy and skillful midfielder who can break defenses with his pace and direct dribbling. Both players bring an exciting dimension to the squad and offer hope for long-term success.


Addressing Key Areas of Need


One of the most pressing issues for D.C. United in recent seasons has been their lack of consistency in defense. The addition of South Korean goalkeeper Joon-hong Kim and left-footed Australian center back Kye Rowles is a step in the right direction, bringing starting quality international defensive players. At the same time the team will also rely on the continued improvement of Lucas Bartlett, a commanding center-back, who in 2024 showed strong leadership to earn his place in the starting lineup. With a partnership of Bartlett and Rowles in front of anathletic highly skilled goalkeeper, the Black & Red are hoping for greater stability in the back.


In midfield, D.C. United has struggled to control games and create scoring opportunities. The arrival of Brandon Servania, João Peglow and Hosei Kijima, a talented young midfielder, should help address this issue. Before his injury Servania showed the ability to control the midfield and transition the ball forward. Peglow’s ability to dictate the tempo and unlock defenses on the wing with his speed and passing will be crucial and should complement Stroud on the opposite side of the field, while Kijima’s energy and tenacity to break lines with his dribbling could provide a strong foundation in the center of the park. If these players can form a cohesive partnership, D.C. United’s midfield could become one of the most dynamic in the league.


Up front, the team will look to Christian Benteke to lead the line once again. The Belgian striker had an outstanding 2024 season, scoring 25 goals in all competitions, but he will need more support from his teammates to improve on that tally. Randall Leal and Jared Stroud are expected to provide the service and creativity needed to get the best out of Benteke.


Additionally, the emergence of Gabriel Pirani, the young Brazilian midfielder who has shown promise in limited minutes, could add depth to the attacking options.


A Second Year Under Troy Lesesne


The 2025 season marks the second year for D.C. United head coach Troy Lesesne. Appointed at the beginning of the 2024 campaign, Lesesne used his time to assess the squad and implement a new culture and tactical philosophy. Known for his emphasis on high pressing and quick transitions, Lesesne’s style of play will suit the strengths of the team’s new signings. Players like Leal and Karamoko, who thrive in open spaces, should benefit from this approach.


However, Lesesne faces the challenge of integrating so many new players into the squad while establishing a cohesive team identity. Building chemistry and trust among the players will be critical, especially in the early stages of the season. If Lesesne can strike the right balance between experience and youth, D.C. United could become a formidable opponent in the Eastern Conference.


Cautious Optimism for the Future


As the 2025 season begins , there is a sense of cautious optimism among D.C. United fans that the team is headed in the right direction, but it is still in rebuilding mode. The roster overhaul has addressed many of the team’s weaknesses, and the blend of experience and youth offers hope for both short-term success and long-term growth. However, questions remain about how quickly the new players can adapt to MLS and whether Lesesne can deliver consistent results.


The ultimate goal for D.C. United is to end their playoff drought, which has stretched to five years. With the Eastern Conference becoming increasingly competitive, achieving this goal will not be easy. Teams like FC Cincinnati, Columbus Crew, and Orlando City have set high standards, and D.C. United will need to raise their level to compete.


For the Black and Red faithful, the 2025 season represents a fresh start and an opportunity to return to the club’s former glory. While there are no guarantees in sports, the pieces are in place for D.C. United to make a statement. The coming months will reveal whether this ambitious rebuild can translate into success on the field. One thing is certain: D.C. United cannot afford another lost season. The time to act is now.


D.C. United’s Roster Changes 

D.C. United’s Overhaul for the 2025 Season Starts with Goalkeeping


D.C. United made waves this offseason by completely revamping their goalkeeper room, parting ways with Alex Bono, Tyler Miller, Luis Zamudio, and Nathan Crockford. In their place, General Manager Ally Mackay has brought in a trio of new faces: Kim Jun-hong, Luis Barraza, and Jordan Farr. This bold move signals a fresh start for the club’s defensive backbone.  


Key Departures


Alex Bono has now signed as backup goalkeeper for the New England Revolution.

Tyler Miller is without a club.

Luis Zamudio has now signed as a goalkeeper for the Charleston Battery.

Nathan Crockford has now signed as a goalkeeper for Cincinnati 2 MLSNext Pro team.


Key Arrivals 


Kim Jun-hong (Goalkeeper, 21, South Korea) Kim Jun-hong is one of DC United’s youngest signings this season. Acquired from Jeonbuk Hyundai Motors for approximately $500,000, Kim made 31 appearances in the K League last season. His shot-stopping ability and composure under pressure make him a promising prospect for the future, and he could challenge for the starting role in the coming years.


Luis Barraza (Goalkeeper, 28, Mexico/USA)  Barraza, was born in Mexico but raised in the U.S.. He joins D.C. United from New York City FC. Acquired for $50,000 in GAM plus incentives, Barraza brings MLS experience, having made 29 appearances over six seasons. While he has yet to establish himself as a consistent starter, his potential and familiarity with the league make him a solid backup option.


Jordan Farr (Goalkeeper, 30, USA) Farr, joined D.C. United after a solid career in the USL Championship league. Known for his shot-stopping ability and commanding presence in the box, Farr brings experience and reliability to the goalkeeping department. His arrival provides depth and competition for the starting spot, ensuring DC United has a strong last line of defense.


The spotlight is on 21-year-old Kim Jun-hong, a promising talent signed through the MLS U22 Initiative. D.C. United is the first MLS team to use this initiative on a goalkeeper, a calculated gamble that reflects their belief in his potential. Kim arrives with first-team experience in South Korea’s K-League and a stint with the Military Team during his mandatory service. His three-year guaranteed contract suggests the club sees him as a long-term starter and a potential asset for future transfer opportunities.  


Behind Kim, the backup situation is intriguing. Jordan Farr, Mackay’s first offseason signing, brings extensive experience from the USL Championship, having played 120 games for the Tampa Bay Rowdies. Luis Barraza, on the other hand, has more MLS experience and a prior connection with D.C. United’s goalkeeper coach, Cody Mizell, from their time together at New York City FC.  


The competition for the backup role between Farr and Barraza adds an interesting dynamic to the squad. As the 2025 season approaches, all eyes will be on how this new-look goalkeeper room performs, with Kim Jun-hong expected to lead the charge in goal.


D.C. United’s Defensive Outlook for the 2025 Season


D.C. United is set to enter the 2025 season with a largely revamped backline following several key departures and signings. With half of last season’s defense now gone, the Black-and-Red will look to integrate their new acquisitions while maintaining defensive stability. Here’s a breakdown of what to expect from D.C. United’s backline this season.


Key Departures: A Changing of the Guard


The most significant changes in D.C. United’s defense have come on the left side, where the club has undergone a major overhaul.


Matai Akinmboni: The promising young center-back was permanently transferred to English Premier League side Bournemouth. Although he had limited minutes last season, the 18-year-old showed enough promise to earn a move overseas.


Christopher McVey: The versatile center-back was traded to San Diego SC just before the expansion draft, marking the end of his time in the capital.


Pedro Santos: The veteran left-back was let go after the season. At 36 years old, he has yet to find a new club.


Steve Birnbaum: The longtime captain and defensive anchor was forced to retire midway through the 2024 season due to injuries, bringing an end to his distinguished tenure with the club.


Key Additions: Reinforcements for the Backline


With several defensive departures, D.C. United has moved swiftly to reinforce their backline. The club has brought in a mix of experienced internationals and MLS depth pieces to fill the gaps.


Kye Rowles (Center Back, 26, Australia). Rowles joins from Scottish club Hearts of Midlothian in a deal worth approximately $730K. An Australian international, he has made 82 appearances for Hearts since 2022 and played in the 2022 FIFA World Cup. He brings composure and international experience to the backline.


Lukas MacNaughton (Center Back, 29, Canada) A Canadian international with MLS experience, MacNaughton was acquired from Nashville SC for $150K in General Allocation Money (GAM). Having played for Toronto FC and Nashville over the past two seasons, he adds valuable depth to the center-back rotation.


Derek Dodson (Full Back, 26, USA) Selected in the 2024 Re-Entry Draft, Dodson has yet to play in MLS but has experience in the USL and MLS Next Pro. A former Georgetown standout, he will provide competition for minutes at fullback.


Kind of New: A Midseason Signing Ready to Contribute


David Schnegg (Left Back, 26, Austria) Signed in July 2024 from the Austrian Bundesliga, Schnegg was expected to make an immediate impact but missed most of the season due to injury. Now fully fit, he will be a key player in D.C. United’s revamped left side.


Returning Defenders: The Core of the Defense


Despite the departures, D.C. United retains several key defenders who played crucial roles last season.


Lucas Bartlett (Center Back, 27, USA) Bartlett was a mainstay in the lineup last season, making 35 appearances and contributing 2 goals and 3 assists. His size and aerial ability make him a key piece of the backline.


Aaron Herrera (Right Back, 27, USA) Widely regarded as one of the best right-backs in MLS, Herrera was a force last season with 33 appearances, 1 goal, and 5 assists. His ability to get forward and deliver quality service from the right flank will be crucial to D.C. United’s attack.


Garrison Tubbs (Center Back, 23, USA) A young center-back with significant upside, Tubbs played in 16 matches last season and provided much-needed depth. With another year of development, he could push for more consistent minutes.


Connor Antley (Versatile Defender, 28, USA) Antley proved his value last season before a knee injury cut his campaign short. Capable of playing anywhere across the backline, his versatility and work rate make him a valuable asset when healthy.


How Will the New-Look Defense Perform?


With a mix of returning talent and new signings, D.C. United’s defense faces the challenge of building chemistry quickly. The departures of Birnbaum and Akinmboni leave big shoes to fill, but the additions of Rowles and MacNaughton should provide stability in central defense. Meanwhile, Schnegg’s return from injury will be crucial in addressing the team’s left-back void.

The key to success will be how quickly these new pieces can gel. Herrera remains a standout at right-back, but the rest of the backline will need time to establish itself. If Rowles can adapt to MLS and Schnegg stays healthy, this unit has the potential to be solid. However, depth remains a concern, especially at left-back and center-back, where injuries could expose weaknesses.


Overall, D.C. United’s defense has undergone a significant transformation. While there are questions about cohesion and depth, the additions of experienced international players should help offset the losses. If the team can develop chemistry early in the season, this backline could be an improvement over last year’s unit.


D.C. United’s Midfield Outlook for the 2025 Season


As D.C. United gears up for the 2025 MLS season, their midfield has undergone a significant overhaul. The departures of key players have left gaps in leadership, creativity, and depth, but the club has responded by adding a mix of experienced MLS veterans and promising young talent. With an intriguing combination of attacking playmakers, defensive stability, and youthful prospects, the midfield’s performance will play a crucial role in determining D.C. United’s success this season.


Key Departures


The Black-and-Red lost three midfielders this offseason, each departure altering the team’s balance.


Mateusz Klich was traded to Atlanta United but still occupies a Designated Player (DP) slot with D.C. United. The Polish international had been a leader in midfield, providing experience and passing vision, and his absence leaves a void in the team’s control of possession. Oddly he remains on DC United’s books as a Designated Player even though he will be playing in Atlanta.


Ted Ku-DiPietro was sent to the Colorado Rapids in a groundbreaking cash-for-player trade worth up to $1.4 million. The homegrown midfielder had developed into an exciting and versatile attacking presence, making his loss a significant one for the squad’s long-term plans.


Martín Rodríguez had his option declined after a season affected by injury. Despite contributing 2 goals and 5 assists in 1,252 minutes last year, D.C. opted to part ways with the Chilean playmaker.


These exits seem to have been done by Ally Mackay to open playing time for younger players this season. This mean D.C. United must rely on their new additions to replace lost creativity and attacking output.


Key Additions


To compensate for these departures, D.C. United has brought in several new midfielders, each with their own strengths and potential impact.


Brandon Servania (Defensive/Center Midfielder, 25, USA) Servania won a spot on the team after coming to United’s preseason training camp as one of three trialists. After a tough 2024 season with Toronto FC, where injuries limited his playing time. Servania is looking for a fresh start. A product of the FC Dallas Academy, Servania is known for his work rate, passing ability, and defensive awareness. If he stays fit, he can provide much-needed midfield stability.


Hosei Kijima (Center Midfielder/Winger, 22, Japan) Kijima arrives from St. Louis City SC by way of San Diego SC and the expansion draft. Kijima could prove to be a steal. After mostly playing in MLS Next Pro, St. Louis took a chance and left him exposed in the expansion draft, possibly thinking his international status might deter his selection. United acquired him for $400K in GAM from San Diego, betting on his technical ability and potential development. That Kijima got his green card shortly after was a bonus. The young player is quick with the ball at his feet and capable of breaking lines with both his dribbling and passing. He could be the engine of the midfield.


Rida Zouhir (Attacking Midfielder, 21, Canada) Zouhir was also a trialist at United’s preseason training camp, and the second to earn a contract. Zouhir has so far played limited MLS minutes and mostly in the USL Championship, but has shown lots of potential with 10 goals and 5 assists in 35 matches. He will be looking to prove himself at the MLS level and could provide depth in attacking midfield.


Gavin Turner (Attacking Midfielder, 18, USA) DC United’s newest homegrown signing has shown impressive soccer skills and IQ in first-team training sessions. His recent experience training with Crystal Palace and West Ham in England suggests high potential, and D.C. will hope he can make an impact in 2025, though if he does not get enough playing time, could be a loan candidate.


These signings add creativity and energy to the squad, but health and adaptation will be key factors in their success.


Returning Midfield Core


Despite losing key contributors, D.C. United retains a solid midfield group, which will be crucial in integrating the new signings.


Matti Peltola (Defensive Midfielder/Center Back, 22, Finland) Peltola returns primarily as a defensive midfielder and is expected to play a vital role in shielding the backline. No one questions his motor, and his ability to win tackles and distribute the ball effectively. With a year of MLS play under his belt, the club expects Peltola to make strides in his decision making. If Peltola takes the expected next step, he will be an important piece in the team’s structure.


Gabriel Pirani (Attacking Midfielder, 22, Brazil) Pirani remains a U22 initiative player. He’s an attacking midfielder with plenty of potential, but needs to step up this season. He showed flashes of quality toward the end of last season but still has room to improve in consistency and decision-making. Having had one-year plus to settle in, the club is looking for more confidence and consistency from the young number 10.


Jackson Hopkins (Center/Defensive Midfielder, 20, USA) Hopkins is a homegrown midfielder who has been with the first team for a couple of years. He remains a promising young talent who can play up front, on the wings or in the midfield. He has seemed more comfortable playing further back where he can pick up the ball and advance it. Unfortunately he has struggled with injuries, and starts the season nursing an injury. If he can stay fit, he could be a valuable contributor this season.


Boris Enow (Center/Defensive Midfielder, 24, Cameroon) Enow was signed from Maccabi Netanya in Israel last summer but had minimal impact in 2024. With a full preseason under his belt, it will be interesting to see if he can contribute more than just depth this season.


What to Expect in 2025


D.C. United’s midfield will be a work in progress as the season begins. While the team has addressed key losses with new signings, several players—including Leal and Servania—come with injury concerns. Their ability to stay healthy and integrate quickly will be essential for the team’s success.


The departures of Klich and Ku-DiPietro mean D.C. United will need new leaders to step up in midfield. Leal and Pirani will be expected to drive the attack, while Servania, Peltola, and Enow provide defensive balance. The younger signings, including Kijima, Zouhir, and Turner, could offer a spark if given the opportunity.

Ultimately, how head coach Troy Lesesne manages this midfield group will determine D.C. United’s ability to control games and create scoring opportunities. If the new signings live up to their potential and the returning players step up, D.C. could have a well-balanced midfield capable of pushing for a playoff spot. However, depth remains a concern, and injuries could expose weaknesses.


As the 2025 season kicks off, D.C. United’s midfield will be under the spotlight—whether it thrives or struggles could define the team’s fortunes in MLS this year.


D.C. United’s Offensive Outlook for the 2025 Season


D.C. United enters the 2025 MLS season with a mix of continuity and change in its attacking unit. While the departure of Cristian Dájome leaves a gap in attacking depth, the club has made notable additions in João Peglow and Randall Leal. These new signings, alongside returning veterans and young talents, will look to improve a D.C. United offense that had moments of promise in 2024 but lacked consistency.


Only Departure:


Cristian Dájome The Colombian attacker’s departure will be felt in how many minutes he gave the Black & Red. Even if his production wasn’t elite, his versatility and endurance allowed Lesesne to fill many holes on the bench. Christian provided valuable versatility, able to play as a winger or forward while contributing defensively in Troy Lesesne’s high-pressing system. While his goal and assist totals didn’t stand out, his movement and work rate created space for others. Finding a player who can replicate that impact will be crucial.


Key Additions:


Randall Leal (Winger, 28, Costa Rica) Leal joins after being waived by Nashville following an injury-plagued 2024 season. When healthy, the Costa Rican international is a dynamic attacking midfielder with 17 goals Key only 21 assists in MLS. His ability to unlock defenses with dribbling and passing will be crucial for D.C.’s attack. The key is can he stay healthy. If healthy, Leal has the ability to be a DP level player for the team, and a great partner for Christian Benteke.


João Peglow (Winger, 23, Brazil) Peglow is a wild card signing. Potentially D.C. United’s most significant offseason attacking acquisition, João Peglow is a 23-year-old Brazilian winger brought in from Poland’s Radomiak Radom for $700K. Peglow arrives with an uncertain track record, having already played for seven clubs, including four loan spells from Brazil’s Internacional. His production in Poland—one goal in 25 appearances over a season and a half—doesn’t immediately suggest he will be a difference-maker in MLS. However, his technical ability and potential upside could make him an intriguing piece in Lesesne’s system. If he adapts well, Peglow could provide much-needed creativity on the wings.


Hakim Karamoko (Winger/Striker, 19, USA) Karamoko is a rookie with upside. D.C. United used the 10th overall pick in the 2025 MLS SuperDraft to select 19-year-old forward Hakim Karamoko from NC State. While expectations for rookies in MLS can be tempered, Karamoko has the physical tools and attacking instincts to contribute, especially in a depth role. If he adjusts quickly to the professional level, he could provide energy off the bench and push for minutes as the season progresses.


Returning Players


While the new signings bring fresh faces to the attack, D.C. United’s offensive core remains largely intact.


Christian Benteke (Striker, 34, Belgium) Benteke remains the focal point of the team. The Belgian striker was the Captain and leader of the squad as well as the heart of D.C. United’s attack in 2024. He lead the team with 25 goals across all competitions, but was more. His combination of strength, hold-up play, and aerial dominance makes him a crucial figure in Lesesne’s tactical setup. If he remains healthy and maintains his finishing form, Benteke will once again be the team’s primary scoring threat. On a young team, Benteke’s leadership will be key to any success.


Jared Stroud (Winger, 28, USA) Stroud is a pressing machine who can play across the line behind Benteke. Acquired from St. Louis City, Stroud quickly became a key part of D.C. United’s pressing identity. While not the most prolific attacker, his work rate and ability to create turnovers high up the field made him an essential piece in Lesesne’s system. Stroud will likely play a similar role in 2025, providing defensive intensity and service from wide areas.


Jacob Murrell (Center Forward/ Winger, 20, USA) Murrell will be looking for a breakthrough in 2025. Selected seventh overall in the 2024 MLS SuperDraft Murrell made 30 appearances in 2024, but his statistical output—one goal and two assists—was modest. As he enters his next season, the expectation is that he will take a step forward in terms of production. His development will be key to providing D.C. United with more depth and secondary scoring.


Dominique Badji (Center Forward/ Winger, 32, Senegal) Dominique Badji provides experienced depth. A mid summer signing last season Dominique Badji made 11 appearances, contributing a goal and an assist. While he is unlikely to be a regular starter, his experience and versatility make him a valuable depth option. Badji’s ability to play multiple attacking roles could be useful in situations where injuries or fixture congestion come into play.


How Will D.C. United’s Attack Shape Up?


D.C. United’s offensive approach in 2025 will likely revolve around a few key factors:

Benteke’s Continued Production – If he remains a top-tier MLS striker, the attack has a foundation to build around.


Peglow’s Adjustment to MLS – Can he translate his potential into meaningful contributions?

Leal’s Health– Can Randall Leal stay healthy and play to his full potential? If he can, DC has a DP level winger.


Stroud and Murrell’s Growth as Goal Contributors – Secondary scoring will be crucial to avoid over-reliance on Benteke.


Karamoko’s Development – If the rookie can provide a spark off the bench, it will be a bonus.


The Black & Red’s offense in 2024 was Christian Benteke and the rest. To take a step forward and improve its attacking output the new signings need to integrate well and returning players need to step up, It’s a big ask, but D.C. United’s offense could take a step forward in 2025 as the depth and talent have improved.


Final Thoughts


All in all the 2025 season seems to be the next step in DC United’s rebuild. 2024 and the offseason between has been the tear down of the old team. Ally Mackay has cleaned house and begun to put in a foundation of younger players. Players this season will be playing to prove they belong next season when the new Designated Players are brought in. This is the foundation year.

 

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