Football Season Guide

Made it 5 years in a row without post-season football. DC last won a playoff game way back in 2015. Last season stayed out of the play-in only on goal difference. This was largely due to the awful defending. Conceded 70 goals last year. This was the 3rd worst record in the entire MLS. Also, relied heavily on their captain Cristian Benteke for goals in 2024. He scored 23 of DC’s 52 goals last term. When Benteke was injured or suspended the wins were simply not possible. Despite all this coach Lesense is staying for a 2nd year in charge. It seems he is now tasked to rebuild the squad for future seasons and not so much to be competitive straight away. Benteke is now 34 so him continuing to contribute the same way is unrealistic expectation. DC also freed lots of roster and salary space this winter. Parted ways with many regulars and bright future prospects. Changed their entire goalkeepers room too. There is not much quality among the new arrivals. Still, Japanese midfielder Kijima could become a regular starter. This due to the serious lack of depth in this area. Also, Kim or Barraza will have to be playing on goal. Rowles and MacNaughton are new CBs who can expected to play a lot too. Again, this due to serious lack of depth in defence. Benteke remains indispensable in attack. Dominique Badji, added last September to the squad, might see his use and minutes increase rapidly as the season progresses though. Benteke’s age and injury problems put a serious doubt on his extensive use.