Halfway across the globe, D.C. United is stirring. Gone are the Florida sun and California beaches of past preseasons, replaced by the sands of Saudi Arabia. But with a new coach at the helm, transfer whispers swirling, and the season opener just weeks away, the buzz around the Black-and-Red is electric.
Coach Troy Lesesne, fresh off his January appointment, wasted no time making his mark. His sights are set on Finnish defender Matti Peltola, a young talent with Champions League experience. "We're excited about him," Lesesne enthused, hinting at a deal on the horizon. Peltola's arrival would not only strengthen the backline, but also qualify him as a designated player, freeing up salary cap space for further acquisitions.
While the core of the 2023 squad – a disappointing 10-14-10 season – remains, Lesesne is injecting new energy. Midfielder Ethan Dobbelaere arrives via waivers, while draft picks Jacob Murrell and Nate Crockford bolster the attack and defense, respectively. But the biggest changes lie behind the scenes: a complete overhaul of the coaching staff and front office promises a fresh tactical approach and strategic player recruitment.
United's training camp in Saudi Arabia marks a dramatic shift from past routines. With expenses covered and an appearance fee paid, the team dives headfirst into a unique cultural experience. The top-notch facilities and opportunity to face diverse opponents like the Sudanese national team offer valuable preparation for the upcoming season.
"It's been different," admits veteran captain Russell Canouse, "but a different experience is good." He acknowledges the surprise element of the Saudi trip but emphasizes the team's focus on utilizing this opportunity to their advantage. The chance to train in world-class facilities and bond in a new environment fuels their determination to hit the ground running when they return.
While tight-lipped on specifics, Lesesne hints at implementing his tactical philosophy gradually. "It's going to be piece by piece," he explains, acknowledging the need for flexibility as players return from international duty and injuries. The focus, he emphasizes, is on building a strong foundational understanding, allowing the team to adapt and evolve throughout the season.
With the February 24th season opener against New England looming, Lesesne remains non-committal on further acquisitions before then. However, the transfer window remains open until April, offering ample time to find the missing pieces. Whether the Peltola deal materializes and other signings follow remains to be seen, but one thing is clear: D.C. United is back in the spotlight, ready to write a new chapter under a bold new leadership.
