FC Cincinnati has come into the 2024 MLS Season with high expectations. After a 2023 Supporter's Shield Campaign, and falling short of their MLS Cup Final goal, FC was hoping to strengthen the squad and repeat last year's success. However, losing pivotal players like Brandon Vazquez, Yerson Mosquera, and Alvaro Barreal has caused FC to try to replace them. So far, the replacements have not hit their stride. The question becomes, should FC Cincinnati look to change the roster again, or should they keep their confidence in the new players?
Going into Sunday's match against DC United, FCC has had to manage a difficult schedule between the MLS Regular Season and the CONCACAF Champions Cup. On Thursday, Cincinnati took on Mexican juggernaut CF Monterrey and their former striker, Brandon Vazquez. As some sort of cruel irony, Vazquez proved to be the difference against his former side. Vazquez's goal also highlighted the fact that since he departed from the club, FC Cincy has struggled for goals.
Speaking of struggling for goals, FC Cincinnati hosted DC United on Sunday afternoon, and much like their home opener, it finished a 0-0 draw. Also like the home opener, the offense was not hitting on all cylinders and is making the fanbase begin to question, whether changes should be made.
The defense is stout as hell — even minus Obi.
— CHIEF (@WarPigsChief) March 10, 2024
The offense? It looks out of ideas and incapable of finishing.
It needs to get better. #AllForCincy
Aside from the 6 goals in the two games against Jamaican side FC Cavalier, the boys in Orange and Blue have only managed to score 2 goals in their other four games in MLS and CONCACAF Champions Cup. Suffice it to say, it is not enough. Corey Baird, who was figuring to be a replacement for Vazquez's goals, has yet to get his name on the scoresheet this season. Aaron Boupendza has been battling through a sore hamstring and has 2 goals so far this season, but the club needs more from him going forward.
The question becomes, do FC Cincinnati make any changes or stay the course? In reality, FC is not in a position to make any roster changes right now. With the investment in Corey Baird, Luca Orellano, and Deandre Yedlin, FCC has the makings of a playoff-ready roster. Building in the passing patterns and finding the combinations that work on the pitch, ultimately will be the responsibility of head coach Pat Noonan. And given Noonan's track record, FC will find their footing, kick on, and find the goals to get results.