FC Dallas are usually in the mix when it comes time for the MLS Cup Playoffs, but they have not been able to get over the hump. They are often bounced in the early rounds, they lost in the conference semi-final last season. Thie regular season success has not translated to the playoffs for the most part. In 2022, FCD had a spectacular season, as they finished in third place in the Western Conference. They won 14 games, and conceded just 37 goals, an incredibly low number. That comes out to just barely over one goal conceded per match, which was the least in the entire conference. Their quick start, 6-1-4 into May, propelled them far, but their form did not last through the summer. Jesus Ferreira led the way in goal scoring with 18, Paul Arriola scored 10, and Alan Velasco added seven. Each of these three players also assisted goals on at least six occasions. Dallas's season-ending loss against Austin FC was disappointing, but this team has something to build off of.
As mentioned previously, FC Dallas were absurdly good defensively, conceding less goals than every team except the Philadelphia Union. With that being said, the front office clearly were not satisfied, as all of their important off-season acquisitions come on defense. This compensated the emotional loss of Matt Hedges, a club legend. Hedges signed with Toronto FC in December after playing a decade in FCD's colors. Among these signings were two center backs, Amet Korca and Sebastien Ibeagha. Korca, 22, was born and raised in Texas, but spent three years in Croatia before returning back to the Lone Star State. Ibeagha is an experienced defender who comes over from the MLS Cup champions, LAFC. Brazilian U22 Initiative right-back Geovane Jesus also arrived in Dallas this off-season, from Cruzeiro. The lone attacking signing comes in the form of Jose Mulato, a 20-year-old Colombian from Deportivo Cali. One on the way out includes Liga MX side Puebla's all-time leading goal scorer, Franco Jara, who was not able to find anything close to this form in MLS. Winger Kalil ElMedkhar joined USL side Loudoun United FC.
FC Dallas may have their leader and heart in Matt Hedges, but the defense should stay strong nevertheless. These additions will provide solid depth in central defense. Ibeagha and Korca will be fighting for playing time with Jose Martinez and Nkosi Tafari. Geovane Jesus will compete with Ema Twumasi on the right side of defense, while Farfan will hold down the left. Maarten Paes played extremely well at goalkeeper last season, so he is expected to continue starting over Jimmy Maurer. The midfield trio of Paxton Pomykal, Facundo Quignon, and Sebastian Lletget is a strong one that may see the team set up in a 4-3-3 formation. Velasco will continue to bring his speedy Argentine spark to the attack. Jesus Ferreira and Paul Arriola may not be loved by all USMNT fans, but they can be a dangerous duo in MLS. FC Dallas have their sights set on both regular season, and then post season success in 2023.
Projected XI:
GK: Paes
DEF: Farfan, Martinez, Tafari, Twumasi
MID: Quignon, Pomkyal, Lletget
FWD: Velasco, Arriola, Ferreira
Off-Season Grade: B
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