Five Players San Diego FC Should Select In The 2024 MLS Expansion Draft
San Diego FC is set to join the MLS in 2024, and the expansion draft is a crucial opportunity for the club to acquire talented players from other MLS teams. With a limited number of protected players, each team will be forced to expose several valuable assets to the expansion draft. San Diego FC must carefully consider which players to select to build a competitive roster for their inaugural season.
Key Considerations for San Diego FC
San Diego FC should prioritize selecting players who fit the following criteria:
- Positional needs: Identify areas where the team needs to strengthen, such as center back, winger, or striker.
- Age and experience: Target players who are either young with high potential or experienced veterans who can provide leadership.
- Salary cap implications: Consider the salary demands of potential draft picks and ensure they align with the team’s budget.
- Versatility: Opt for players who can play multiple positions, adding flexibility to the roster.
Five Players San Diego FC Should Consider
Based on these criteria, here are five players San Diego FC should consider selecting in the 2024 MLS Expansion Draft:
1. Oniel Fisher (LAFC)
Position: Defender
Age: 29
Salary: $725,000
Fisher is a versatile defender who can play both left-back and center-back. He has a knack for scoring goals and providing assists, and brings leadership qualities to any team. His experience and international caps would be valuable for San Diego FC’s backline.
2. Albert Rusnák (Seattle Sounders)
Position: Midfielder
Age: 28
Salary: $1.5 million
Rusnák is an attacking midfielder with a proven track record of success in MLS. He is a creative playmaker who can unlock defenses with his passing range and vision. Despite his high salary, Rusnák’s ability to create chances and score goals makes him a prime target for San Diego FC.
3. Tajon Buchanan (New England Revolution)
Position: Winger
Age: 23
Salary: $600,000
Buchanan is a speedy and skillful winger who has represented Canada internationally. He is known for his dribbling ability and his ability to create chances for teammates. Buchanan’s potential and affordable salary make him an attractive option for San Diego FC.
4. Kai Wagner (Philadelphia Union)
Position: Defender
Age: 26
Salary: $750,000
Wagner is a German-born left-back who has been a key player for the Philadelphia Union. He is a solid defender with a strong attacking presence. Wagner’s international experience and ability to contribute on both sides of the ball make him a valuable asset.
5. Gyasi Zardes (Colorado Rapids)
Position: Striker
Age: 31
Salary: $1 million
Zardes is a veteran striker with a wealth of experience in MLS. He is a proven goalscorer who has played for the US national team. While his salary may be a concern, Zardes’s ability to find the back of the net makes him an enticing option for San Diego FC.
Conclusion
The 2024 MLS Expansion Draft presents a significant opportunity for San Diego FC to acquire talented players and build a competitive roster for their inaugural season. By prioritizing positional needs, considering age and experience, and evaluating salary cap implications, San Diego FC can target players like Oniel Fisher, Albert Rusnák, Tajon Buchanan, Kai Wagner, and Gyasi Zardes. These players have the potential to make an immediate impact and help San Diego FC establish themselves as a force in MLS.
