Chivas USA
The Home Depot Center (Capacity: 27,000)
2006 Record: 10-9-13, 43 pts. Third in Western Conference.
GF: 45 (3rd in MLS)
GA: 42 (7th in MLS)
Finish: Lost to Houston Dynamo 3-2 on aggregate in Western Conference Semifinal
Head Coach: Preki (1st year)
Key Departures: Juan Pablo Garcia, Francisco Palencia, Jésus Morales, Johnny Garcia, Tim Regan
Key Additions: Amado Guevara, Jorge Barrera, Maykel Galindo
PROJECTED STARTING LINEUP
GOALKEEPER
Brad Guzan: Needs to improve on 1-4-2 April mark from 2005 and 2006 to hold onto spot.
DEFENDERS
Jonathan Bornstein: If the MLS 2006 Rookie of the Year is not healthy by season opener, he should be back in starting lineup on April 14 at Houston.
Claudio Suarez: World Cup 2006 veteran should be available to the club all year.
Jason Hernandez: Solid defender provides physical complement to Suarez.
Lawson Vaughn: Speedy fullback ensures that club will have dangerous options on both flanks.
MIDFIELDERS
Francisco Mendoza: Diminutive winger's game could reach All-Star level.
Jesse Marsch: Tough-as-nails Marsch is the glue that holds the club together.
Sacha Kljestan: Offseason of international duty could fast-track his development.
Amado Guevara: One of league's most talented players.
FORWARDS
Ante Razov: Health will be most important factor for one of league's most deadliest finishers.
Maykel Galindo: Cuban has proven himself worthy of chance to showcase his skills.
OUTLOOK
Chivas USA returns a strong foundation from last season's playoff team. With improved depth and key contributions from some of the young talent, the Red-and-White should be contenders yet again.
GRADING THE SEASON:
A successful season would see Chivas USA reach the conference final, though most players would likely be dissatisfied with another early exit. If Chivas USA does not improve on last season's finish, 2007 will be a failure.
NEWCOMER WITH BIGGEST IMPACT
Although Maykel Galindo could step right into the starting lineup, versatile Jorge Barrera will see plenty of time this season. Adept at midfield and on the defensive flanks, Barrera gives Preki a high-quality option.
