#MLSisBack (!), and so is the Down The Hatch mailbag.
The last edition was Jan. 9 – still a week away from players reporting and practice beginning. A lot has happened since, obviously.
But to get you ready (and hopefully excited) for the new season, here’s the latest mailbag. As a reminder, you cansend me questions through this link or by tweeting at me. Thank you!
Seth: Can FCC be competitive this season with the current squad? If not, what pieces do we need in order to be?
Yes. The current roster is way stronger than anything any coach was afforded in 2019, which is a credit to GM Gerard Nijkamp and his technical staff. Through the five-week preseason, I noticed there was a quality and depth in every position. I know this sounds ridiculously upbeat for a team that finished last in MLS in 2019, but their first-half performance against the Philadelphia Union two weeks ago was arguably the best this club has played. Ever. Hopefully that’s what awaits in the regular season.
Judi: Will the team be playing in a certain formation?
During Monday’s Media Day, both Nijkamp and interim head coach Yoann Damet said there’s no set formation this season. The team is more focused on its playing style (fluid possession and building from the back) than sticking to one formation and keeping it all season.
For example, FCC practiced a 4-3-3, 3-4-3 and 4-4-2 during preseason. The team’s playing style was consistent regardless of formation.
Nancy: Is the starting lineup taking shape?
I think Damet and his coaching staff have an idea, but nothing’s set in stone. They still need to see which players have their visa paperwork finalized, in addition to deciding position battles, like goalkeeper. Damet didn’t drop any hints at Monday’s Media Day.
@lilihayward05: How long do you guys practice every day? IM A HUGE FCC FAN!!!!!!!!
Practice times vary depending on the given day and week. The first practice before a game is always lighter and shorter than the next two or three. Practices are also shorter the day before a match. Most are usually 75-90 minutes on average, but that doesn’t include warmups or the post-training gym sessions.
@t6son: What is Jürgen Locadia’s number?
10.
Charlie’s guess on who bags the first goal at Nippert this year
I’d like it to be Frankie Amaya. I think there are other more-likely answers (Locadia, Siem de Jong, Allan Cruz or Yuya Kubo), but Amaya’s shooting has improved throughout preseason and he’s searching for his first MLS goal. Plus, it’d be great for the teenager and the fans alike. Who would’ve said Kendall Waston last year!? (Probably only Kendall Waston)
@trecal: When will we get our STM packages?
You should start seeing them in mailboxes today! Expect a nice, big box on your doorstep when you get home in the next few days.
@mongobo: Thoughts on Haris as a midfield ‘anchor?’ Philly fans, and YouTube, suggest defense is not a strong suit for him.
Personally, defensive prowess shouldn’t dictate where he plays. FCC have embraced defending collectively, which means defending truly starts with the frontline. The coaches have instilled tactics for out-of-possession play in the high middle and low blocks. In essence, every player knows their roles and where their teammates will be at any given moment.
I think he’s the anchor, but that doesn’t mean he’s defensive minded. He’s more like a deep-lying playmaker who can spray balls into open space. Does that mean there might be more running for the other center mids? Maybe, but that won’t mean sacrificing any offensive or defensive quality
Bill: Any thoughts on the CBA…
I haven’t seen anything outside of what’s been shared publicly on the new collective bargaining agreement, but I know many were pleased with the outcome and glad to finalize the deal.
Kevin T: Hey Charlie,
With the league allowing clubs to sell patches on their jersey sleeves to sponsors in 2020, is FC Cincinnati looking to add a sleeve sponsor this year? Or 2021 it’s too late for 2020?
Hey Kevin,
Mercy Health’s agreement with the club affords them the opportunity to be the sole sponsor to appear on our jersey.
@alexcook: What’s your favorite part of Cincinnati?
Smale Riverfront Park is so underappreciated. While it’s a great riverfront view, the landscaping is gorgeous and there are activities for everyone. There’s nothing better than walking inside the park on a nice, sunny day.
