Live Tonight: Season Preview & New Signings for FC Dallas
Our Afterburn Soccer Show goes live at 7 PM CST/5 PM PST to catch up on new signings and season preparations. Where do we predict FC Dallas to end up in 2026 standings? MVP? Breakout player?
Welcome to the Afterburn Soccer Show Season Preview!
FC Dallas is poised to begin its 2026 campaign with a return of the hoops, new additions, a clear identity, and the potential to do some damage.
To kick the show off, of course, we will catch up on a couple big pieces of player moves:
First, FC Dallas announced the acquisition of attacking midfielder Joaquín Valiente from Defensor Sporting Club last Friday. I talked about the move on Friday and had a busy weekend so couldn’t get us up to speed. The key thing to know is that Valiente does not take up a Designated Player spot, meaning FC Dallas will have plenty of flexibility around the World Cup time to add a big time name — if the right opportunity comes. Second, I enjoyed listening to the FC Dallas Agenda podcast and an interview with Leo Baldisma, FC Dallas’ Scouting Director, who significantly raised my expectations for this signing. They like him, and he does provide competition and flexibility on the roster. If his track record of being able to make the jump against physical competition continues, he will contribute. Maybe even more than we think? Could he end up being a sneaky good answer to their attacking needs?
Second, in a true soccer sicko move, FC Dallas announced the half season loan of goalkeeper Brooks Thompson from USL League One side Lexinton SC. There is a purchase option. Brooks adds another keeper who provides depth but has some solid experience at lower levels. I like this move, since it is low risk but high reward if Brooks gets an opportunity. Frankly, every MLS team should be forced to buy or loan someone from USL at least once a season, because we need more pathways to the senior level in this country.1
Then, we will jump into our season predictions.
Where will FC Dallas end up in the MLS Western Conference?
What hardware do we predict will be in the mix?
Who will be our Golden Boot, our MVP, our Breakout Star?
Who will win MLS this year?2
That’s just a taste.
We will take your questions too.
See you in a few hours.
I know they are separate organizations and not part of a pyramid, but these kinds of moves are what developing domestic talent is all about. Make it so!
FC Dallas, of course.