Seattle, Washington – The MLS preseason is underway as teams gear up for the start of the season on February 21st. As players report for medicals and initial training sessions, clubs are also identifying their needs and making preparations to strengthen their rosters. With just a few weeks until the CONCACAF Champions Cup, some teams have more work to do than others in order to be fully prepared for the upcoming season.
Atlanta United has already made significant moves in the offseason, signing Poland international Bartosz Slisz from Legia Warsaw. This acquisition will fill the team’s need for a starting No. 6 player. With new additions like Slisz and center back Stian Gregersen, Atlanta United’s starting XI has the potential to be one of the best in the league. In addition, the team has also brought in midfielder Dax McCarty and defender Derrick Williams for rotation, solidifying their depth. However, they may need to be prepared for offers for Thiago Almada, as the talented midfielder has been linked with a move to Atlético Madrid.
Austin FC is in need of high-level attackers and a center back. Their attack outside of Sebastian Driussi is uncertain, and they are currently linked with River Plate’s Colombian international center forward, Miguel Borja. Adding more starting-level players at center back and right back will also be crucial for the team.
Charlotte FC has a few good pieces on their roster but still needs some tweaks to make everything fit better. Their DP winger, Kamil Jozwiak, has underperformed, and the fit between DP forwards Enzo Copetti and Karol Swiderski has not been ideal. The team will prioritize finding a DP attacker and winger to improve their attacking options. Additionally, they should consider elevating Nikola Petkovic, a rising Serbian central midfielder who has impressed in the lower leagues.
The Chicago Fire has needs in several key positions, including No. 9, central midfield, left wing, and right back. More importantly, the team needs to make smart decisions with their designated player signings. In the past, they have struggled with their DP signings, and it is crucial for them to hit high-end signings this time around. They should also consider moving on from underperforming players and creating room for new talent.
FC Cincinnati, the winners of the Supporters’ Shield last season, is in the process of reloading their roster. While they still have key players like Lucho Acosta and Matt Miazga, they need to find replacements for some starters that have already left. A central midfielder and wingbacks are among their current needs.
These are just a few examples of the needs for MLS teams as they gear up for the new season. Each team has unique challenges and areas to address in order to compete at the highest level. Preseason will be a crucial time for these teams to make the necessary adjustments and additions to their rosters. With the opening day of the MLS season fast approaching, fans can look forward to an exciting and competitive season ahead.
(Note: The content of this article is rewritten and does not quote any news organization. It is written in AP News Style.)