This yr’s camp started not solely with out Hamid however with none of the 4 guards to look at a sport in 2022. The competitors for the first-party in opposition to Toronto FC within the MLS opener on February 25 options two free agent signings and a candidate promoted from United’s second-place end. – affiliate division.
“You would not attempt to dethrone somebody who’s been in workplace for years, who’s a fan favourite, who’s actually beloved amongst males,” stated Alex Bono. “The three of us are available in with a clear slate.”
Hamid and United parted methods after an injury-shortened 2022 season, ending the second-longest reign for a DC participant (behind Jaime Moreno) and 290 video games, 80 dwelling runs, together with the playoffs. The 32-year-old continues to be a free agent.
Bono, 28, arrived after eight seasons in Toronto, the place he made 48 appearances over the previous two years. Tyler Miller, 29, signed after making 30 begins with Minnesota in 2021 and misplaced his beginning job final yr. Luis Zamudio, 24, was the beginning goalkeeper for Loudoun United final yr whereas coaching usually with the DC aspect.
When the camp opened, coach Wayne Rooney and goalkeeper coach Diego Restrepo made it clear that the primary place was there. Miller and Bono began one preseason sport every. Zamudio performed a secondary position within the second half, then began the sport for 45 minutes.
“For them, it takes about minutes, and whether or not it is the following sport or the sport after that, they may know which one goes to be the beginning goalkeeper,” Rooney stated. “I’ve one in thoughts, however I’ll talk about it with and with the fellows [Restrepo] And decide from there.”
After beginning the season opener final week, Miller seems to have the benefit. However Bono’s expertise and Zamudio’s potential left the race open.
“Wayne advised us anybody can play,” stated Zamudio. “He does not care how previous we’re. He’ll play whoever he thinks is greatest.”
Miller the signature They gave him a full circle. The summer time after his freshman yr at Northwestern College, he was invited to coach informally with United on the RFK Stadium coaching grounds. His profession moved him from a backup position in Seattle to, through the growth draft, a beginning job with Los Angeles FC in 2018 and 2019. He was traded to Minnesota in 2020 and began in 2021 earlier than backing up Dwayne St. Clair final yr.
With Miller not enjoying, United inquired a few deal final summer time to offer depth as Hamid recovered from hand surgical procedure, and in his stead neither Rafael Romo nor John Kempin emerged. As a substitute, D.C Signed a take care of Actual Salt Lake for David Ochoaa extremely regarded prospect within the remaining yr of his contract.
Offseason negotiations with Ochoa foundered, and on the primary day of free company, Miller stated he obtained calls from CEO Jason Levine, Rooney and a few different technical workers members encouraging him to affix United.
“I’ve by no means obtained this sort of remedy,” stated Miller, who signed a two-year settlement. “It is easy issues, however they go a great distance.”
Bono’s time with Toronto — which included 135 video games by way of the common season and playoffs — ended late final season in a reserve position.
“The sensation was on either side that it was time to maneuver on,” Bono stated, including that “there was no animosity.”
He stated he acquired one other chunk in free company, however “I felt actually fortunate that DC wished to take me.”
Zamudio’s path started within the youth academy of Mexican Membership América. In 2019, he made the matchday first group roster for 3 matches in Liga MX. His dad and mom are from Mexico, however he was born in Los Angeles and raised in Las Vegas.
He performed for US Second and Third Division golf equipment earlier than excelling with Loudon final yr. Due to common internships with DC, “I knew I used to be on their radar,” he stated. “I knew if I had carried out properly I’d most likely be thought of for the primary group.”
As soon as the season was over, he was provided an MLS contract.
Pre-season competitors required the favorites to not solely make saves and marshal the protection however to start out attacking proactively by enjoying up the sector, seizing alternatives and utilizing their toes for fast distribution.
“I am an aggressive goalkeeper,” stated Miller. “I wish to play on the highest stage, and for Wayne it is a step ahead. It took some time, however I actually really feel like I acquired it proper. He is nice about it: if you happen to make a mistake, it is okay. It is about studying the sport, not enjoying with worry.” “.
“He needs us to be very courageous,” Zamudio added.
The intention is for all three to be within the lineup later this month at Audi Discipline. For Bono, meaning dealing with his former membership.
“That is a bit further motivation,” he stated, smiling. “Going after that spot is much more pressing as a result of I undoubtedly really feel like there may be unfinished enterprise. You wish to play together with your previous group and attempt to maintain on to it.”
Notes: Polish striker Mateusz Klisch obtained a piece visa and arrived on the camp late on Tuesday. He’s set to make his debut on Monday in opposition to Los Angeles FC. …
Christian Benteke and Chris Durkin scored in a 3-2 loss to Charlotte on Wednesday. Then, in a 45-minute subs session in Recreation 1, United drew 1-1 with Vancouver. Scored by rookie Aidan Rocha (Georgetown).