Today we heard from FC Dallas Head Coach Eric Quill and Chief Soccer Officer André Zanotta about the offseason roster build and FCD’s start of their 30th MLS season.
I was eager to hear from them with so much news about player trades that seemed to have rocked the fan base over the last few months. They must have felt that anticipation or apprehension in the air because there was no doubt the level of excitement in the room when they kicked off the opening comments.
Off the top Zanotta confirmed the rumors of player movement, specifically the ‘new number 10’ Luciano Acosta. He also says they are building this roster to last – to be a championship roster.
Head Coach Eric Quill talked about ‘developing a chemistry, a work ethic and defining their style of play – needs never stop when you are trying to build a winner’. He says, “This addition of Lucho and what this guy has done in our league, to opponents, to crowds, this is who we want to be. The mentality he possess is one of a winning nature.”
When asked what was his argument was to get Lucho to come to Dallas, Zanotta said that for a while now they’ve gone back and forth with Cincinnati. Once they were allowed to speak with Lucho, he showed from the beginning his excitement to move here. He is super competitive and wanted to see the mentality that FC Dallas is going to go for trophies and win this year.
Quill explained that Lucho “Sees the games before it happens, two or three steps ahead, not just one. He can provide that efficiency to hurt you with goals and with assist. Like an Argentinian fine wine he’s getting better with age’ and that’s powerful.”
Quill thinks the biggest challenge with this team is locking the team in for 95+ minutes. “They have to understand you don’t turn off, you have to stay aggressive and that every minute they are on the grass is crucial. Being winners starts on the training field and being consistent,” says Quill.
Tactically Quill wants to get more aggressive, have the back half at full velocity along with the front half, and the aggressiveness to play forward. He also says we wants the fans out of their seats – scoring goals and having momentum on our side.
I love to hear that as a fan. Some of our frustrations last season came with the lack of attacking and finishing, so this drive and style is music to my ears. It doesn’t surprise me though. I interviewed Eric Quill years ago about his winning style when he took NTSC to hoist the trophy. I have confidence in his leadership and the team he brings to the field.
Sounds like nothing is locked in on the starting XI. Every position is up for debate as the staff continues to watch the mentality and consistency they are looking for. Quill says the team is training exceptionally hard with a purpose and a mindset that revolves around winning. It’s talent plus character that gets them over the finish line.
As of yesterday, FC Dallas now has 31 players under contract for the 2025 season. The current roster can be found here.
Goalkeepers (3): Antonio Carrera, Michael Collodi, Maarten Paes
Defenders (9): Lalas Abubakar, Marco Farfan, Sebastien Ibeagha, Geovane Jesus, Shaq Moore, Nolan Norris, Enzo Newman, Malachi Molina, Osaze Urhoghide
Midfielders (11): Patrickson Delgado, Herbert Endeley, Diego García, Sebastian Lletget, Tsiki Ntsabeleng, Pedrinho, Paxton Pomykal, Anthony Ramirez, Ramiro, Show, Alejandro Urzua
Forwards (8): Daniel Baran, Logan Farrington, Léo Chú, Anderson Julio, Bernard Kamungo, Petar Musa, Diego Pepi, Tarik Scott
New Kits: INFERNO

Inspired by The Inferno, one of the club’s first supporters’ groups, the Inferno Kit boldly celebrates the Dallas Burn era while also paying tribute to the Dallas Tornado, the NASL team founded by the legendary Lamar Hunt—a pioneer of American soccer whose vision continues to shape FC Dallas today.
The jersey’s cool blue base bursts with striking red flames, symbolizing the unwavering passion of the club and its fans. The bold, fiery red crest anchors the design as a symbol of the energy, pride and spirit that define FC Dallas.
Inferno Jersey Partner – UT Southwestern Medical Center is the front-of-jersey partner for the Inferno Kit. Children’s Health remains the front-of-jersey partner for the Afterburner Kit.
LH Patch – A tribute to Lamar Hunt, displayed on the lower left hem.
Apple TV Patch – New for 2025 is the Apple TV sleeve patch located on the left sleeve on both FC Dallas jerseys. This patch was carefully crafted to marry the iconic Apple logo with the FC Dallas flame that anchors Dallas’ crest.
Texas State Flag – Featured on the back neckline, serving as a reminder that FC Dallas is the first and original Texas MLS club.
Coordinated Look – The kit pairs primarily with matching blue shorts, creating a bold, unified presence on the field.
1 Comment
Jim Schnyder · February 13, 2025 at 12:51 pm
Great post. Excited to see Lucho in action. Hope he and Musa gel and can help us have a better goal differential! Like the direction Quill is going as it looks like he has built a strong side. Let’s just hope everyone stays healthy. New kits are solid. Will actually buy this one.
Comments are closed.