FRISCO, Texas — Fabián Castillo is ready for the spotlight.
Heading into his third season with FC Dallas, the Colombian winger has arrived at preseason camp fully acclimatized to his teammates, the city and the league, and he wants everyone to know that he’s aiming big in 2013.
“It’s my third year and every year, you’re expecting to be better,” Castillo told MLSsoccer.com through a translator. “I’m feeling more comfortable and I’m very happy with the organization and the coaching staff.
“I feel that this year is going to be the year I take it to the next level with my skills to contribute to the team and get results from the start.”
If the second half of last season is any indicator, the next level could be something special. With his compatriot David Ferreira back on the field, Castillo’s game blossomed as he scored four goals in his last 10 games and was a constant source of danger. He spent two weeks training with his former team, Deportivo Cali, to keep sharp in the offseason and for his coach Schellas Hyndman, consistency is the only thing missing.
“The positive things that we saw in Fabián, his speed, quickness and ability to beat you one on one, those things are [always] there,” said Hyndman. “What has to happen is those moments that he has spectacular moments need to occur more often. Once that happens, I think that he could be that player that we all see that potential in him.”
With an even bigger offensive role in 2013, there’s reason to think this is the year he puts it all together. Still just 20 years old, Castillo has huge goals in 2013 – including a trip back to the playoffs for FC Dallas and a first trip to the All-Star Game.
“I think there’s a lot of improvement I still need to see in my game,” said Castillo. “This year I want to score more goals even though I had a good season last year. I want to be a breakout player and for this to be my breakout year. I want to make the All-Star team and to earn recognition as one of the top players in the league.
"If I do all that, I will be helping the team get to the [championship].”
