D.C. United
RFK Memorial Stadium (Capacity: 45,596)
2006 Record: 15-7-10, 55 points (1st in Eastern Conference)
GF: 52 (1st in MLS)
GA: 38 (3rd in MLS)
Finish: Defeated New York Red Bulls 2-1 on aggregate in Eastern Conference Semifinals. Lost to New England Revolution 1-0 in Conference Championship.
Head Coach: Tom Soehn (1st year)
Key Departures: Freddy Adu (Real Salt Lake), Brandon Prideaux (Colorado), Alecko Eskandarian (Toronto FC), Nick Rimando (Real Salt Lake), Matias Donnet
Key Additions: Luciano Emilio, Fred da Silva, Casali Yinka Casal
PROJECTED STARTING LINEUP
GOALKEEPER
Troy Perkins: The Ohio native took over the starting job a year ago due to Nick Rimando's foot injury and never looked back, earning MLS Goalkeeper of the Year honors and a call into the U.S. national team. With Rimando's departure for Salt Lake, he is now United's unquestioned No. 1 between the posts thanks to his dependability and authoritative presence in the penalty box.
DEFENDERS
Facundo Erpen: Few MLS defenders have ever been as entertaining, or frustrating, to watch. The Argentinean possesses excellent technique and a wicked long-range shot, but must improve his decision-making for D.C.'s back line to maximize its potential in 2007.
Bobby Boswell: Once an undrafted rookie and now a rising U.S. international, Boswell continues United's tradition of developing commanding center backs like Eddie Pope and Ryan Nelsen. His communication and leadership are the glue that bonds D.C.'s three-man back line.
Bryan Namoff: After enduring an injury-blighted 2006 season, the veteran's preseason performances have shown real promise thus far and with limited defensive options on the bench, a healthy, consistent Namoff will likely be Soehn's automatic selection at left back.
MIDFIELDERS
Josh Gros: His constant work rate and commitment to the cause are unquestioned, but he himself admits that his crossing needs to be more accurate and reliable. Developing this facet of his game could vault Gros into the ranks of the league's top wingers.
Ben Olsen: The man who once roamed the touchlines has become an engine-room institution, and his tenacious, snarling style delights United fans and riles opposing players (and some referees) in equal measure. The 10-year veteran will be called upon for leadership and spirit throughout D.C.'s taxing 2007 campaign.
Brian Carroll: His straightforward distribution and adept reading of the game provide a steadying presence at United's core. But with the club's abundant supply of holding midfielders, he'll have to stay in top form to hold off Clyde Simms and younger brother Jeff Carroll.
Christian Gomez: A No. 10 of the highest order, Gomez is the polished playmaker that every coach craves. Since arriving from Argentina in August 2004, he's met every challenge in his path and should once again contend for league MVP honors this year. But can United replace his class when their demanding schedule forces him to be rested?
Fred: D.C.'s latest South American import set the Australian league alight last year as a major cog in Melbourne Victory's championship run. While the clever Brazilian is slated for a right wing role with United, don't be surprised if he spells Moreno or Gomez as the season unfolds.
FORWARDS
Jaime Moreno: The living legend will make his 241st MLS start on opening day. Though his dribbling skills and passing vision remain vital to United, the 33-year-old may be rested more regularly now that the club has bolstered its attacking options.
Luciano Emilio: United's long search for a seasoned scorer capable of finishing their many chances seems to have finally hit paydirt with the Brazilian target man. Four goals in three CONCACAF Champions' Cup matches hint at a prosperous MLS campaign for Emilio.
OUTLOOK
Fiery coach Peter Nowak and celebrated starlet Freddy Adu have both moved on, but new D.C. boss Tom Soehn has kept the same system, style and attitude while bringing in some promising foreign acquisitions. United are eager to get their hands on some silverware and with their involvement in four competitions at home and abroad, they'll have ample opportunity for glory in 2007.
GRADING THE SEASON
Having amassed a wealth of attacking firepower, United possess the potential for a breakout season - as long as their defense can keep things organized in the back. The Black-and-Red are as ambitious as any side in MLS and will be bitterly disappointed should they fail to win at least one trophy this year.
NEWCOMER(S) WITH THE BIGGEST IMPACT
Luciano Emilio might well have already earned this tag with his fantastic start, but the skill and versatility of his talented countryman Fred may pay even greater dividends. Anglo-Nigerian teenager Casali Yinka Casal is considered a longer-term project, though with his substantial upside he might well become a factor by late summer.