In a moment of palpable excitement, Julian Gressel, a midfielder for the Columbus Crew, did not hesitate to express his confidence in the team for the upcoming 2023 MLS Cup season. The player’s words, who had previously won the MLS Cup in 2018 with Atlanta United, echoed as a defiant challenge to the team’s opponents from Ohio.
Gressel highlighted the team’s impressive numbers, with 60 goals scored, leading the league, and Cucho Hernández’s rise as an MVP candidate in MLS. The arrival of Diego Rossi to replace Lucas Zelarayán and the implementation of Wilfried Nancy’s bold playing style, a first-year coach, only add fuel to the fire of Columbus Crew’s ambition.
Gressel’s optimism is not unfounded. The Columbus Crew is playing attractive and fluid soccer, seeking three points in every match, whether at home or away. They are not content to merely hold draws to secure a playoff spot; they are determined to play their game wherever they go. This fearless and ambitious approach sets true champions apart.
Furthermore, the vision of the club’s President and General Manager, Tim Bezbatchenko, is equally ambitious. He sees the opportunity to showcase the city of Columbus with the upcoming World Cup and considers the MLS Cup as a first step towards establishing a prominent position in the sports scene.
Coach Wilfried Nancy, on the other hand, adopts a philosophical approach, emphasizing the importance of the team being synchronized in all aspects of the game. For him, the pursuit of greatness is the central goal, and trophies are a natural consequence of this commitment to excellence.
In a sports landscape where optimism is often followed by uncertainty, Julian Gressel’s words and the mindset of the Columbus Crew are refreshing. They are not just thinking about winning but doing so brilliantly, standing out as a team that can compete with the best. The 2023 MLS Cup season promises to be an exciting one for Columbus Crew fans and soccer enthusiasts in general. The question now remains whether this confidence will translate into achievements on the field.