
4. Ezequiel Barco
Ezequiel Barco is coming off of easily his worst game with Atlanta United. He did notch an assist, but he fouled Paul Arriola in the box in the second half, leading directly to D.C.’s second goal and was largely off the pace. Barco was seen not hustling multiple times and seemed frustrated and tired on the pitch. It was not a good look for a player that has missed a few games due to a team-imposed suspension.
This game will be important for Barco. Can he rebound from his poor performance? Can he prove that the $15 million spent on him was worth it? At this moment, I am not convinced it’s possible. Barco was already struggling with confidence on the pitch before his suspension. I can’t imagine where his confidence levels are now.
I usually excuse any doubt and self confidence because of his age, but even I cannot do that anymore. Andrew Carleton is only 18 and he looks mature and confident. George Bello, who is 16, looked confident and energetic in his first-team debut last week against D.C. Barco is 19 and that is no longer an excuse. He has to turn things around or he may lose his spot in the Starting XI again.