MLS 2010 Preview: D.C. United

Tuesday, 23 March 10, 08:15 AM · Comments (0)

Two consecutive years of playoff-less soccer doesn't abide by the high standards set by D.C. United during the league's early years.

The battle for playoff positions has only grown tougher, and the recent struggles of D.C. has led the front office to ring the changes. Out is Tom Soehn -- although by his choice, not the club's -- and in is former player Curt Onalfo, previously seen in Kansas City.

Along with that, there are a number of new faces in place: Cristian Castillo, Danny Allsopp and Adam Cristman are among the new players, while Christian Gomez, Luciano Emilio and Ben Olsen are gone (though Olsen stays as an assistant).

Impact Players

Gone is the old 3-5-2 used by Tom Soehn, and in is Onalfo's 4-4-2. One of the key components there is Santino Quaranta, who will need to make a quick adjustment from wing player to more of a creative-type. His move to the center leaves a gap on the wing that will have to be filled by either Chris Pontius or Brandon Barklage.

A porous defense was one of the biggest downfalls of United last season and while sweeping changes may have taken place in other parts of the park, no big moves have taken place in defense. The addition of Troy Perkins in net should provide a lift, but goalies can't save everything. Dejan Jakovic, who had a strong first season in MLS, will lead the venture to improve the defense.

With Emilio back in his native Brazil, goals are going to have to come from elsewhere. Jaime Moreno, the veteran and MLS original has shown a nose for the goal in preseason, but it would be unwise to rely on the 36-year-old's legs exclusively. Newcomers Allsopp and Cristman are two options, and second-year man Pontius would benefit from starting and staying in one position as a forward.

Big Question

Is Curt Onalfo the answer?

D.C. United's coaching carousel carved an interesting path. Rumors of a failed courtship with Akron coach Caleb Porter swirled abundantly, though in the end the manager rebuffed United's advances. Enter Onalfo, who was dismissed after a decent performance in Kansas City. The Wizards made two playoff appearances under his tutelage, and if Onalfo can repeat that success in 2010 it will be a bright start to his United managerial career.

2010 Outlook

In a wide open league, anything can happen, and D.C. has some interesting talent in place. They don't have very impressive depth, so keeping their players healthy is a must. After last season's disappointment, there will be no international fixtures clogging up the later part of the year, giving them no built-in excuses if they miss the playoffs.

A playoff turnaround will depend on two things: the first will be steadying the ship on a leaky defense, and the second hinging on either Allsopp or Cristman tallying double-digit goal totals.

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MLS 2010 Preview: D.C. United

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