As DC United heads into the 2025 Major League Soccer (MLS) season, the club has assembled a dynamic and versatile squad designed to compete at the highest level. With a blend of experienced veterans, emerging talents, and strategic acquisitions, the team is poised to make a significant impact in both domestic and international competitions. This post delves into the intricacies of the 2025 roster, breaking down the squad into goalkeepers, defenders, midfielders, and forwards. Each player is profiled in detail, highlighting their background, career trajectory, and contributions to the team. Let’s explore the depth and quality of DC United’s 2025 squad.
Goalkeepers
Alex Bono
Nationality: Canadian
Former Clubs: Toronto FC, Reading FC (loan)
Transfer Fee: Free transfer (2024)
Alex Bono, a seasoned shot-stopper, joined DC United in 2024 after a successful stint with Toronto FC, where he won an MLS Cup in 2017. Known for his quick reflexes and commanding presence in the box, Bono has been a reliable figure between the posts. His ability to organize the defense and make crucial saves in high-pressure situations has made him a fan favorite. Bono’s experience in both MLS and international competitions, including appearances for the Canadian national team, adds invaluable depth to DC United’s goalkeeping unit.
Jon Kempin
Nationality: American
Former Clubs: Sporting Kansas City, LA Galaxy, Columbus Crew
Transfer Fee: $75,000 (2023)
Jon Kempin serves as a dependable backup to Bono, bringing years of MLS experience to the squad. Kempin’s journey through various MLS clubs has honed his skills, making him a capable deputy. His agility and shot-stopping ability have been crucial in cup competitions, where he has often been called upon to deliver standout performances. Kempin’s professionalism and readiness to step in when needed make him an essential part of the team.
Jacob Greene
Nationality: American
Former Clubs: None (DC United Academy)
Transfer Fee: N/A
A product of DC United’s renowned academy, Jacob Greene represents the future of the club’s goalkeeping department. At just 21 years old, Greene has already shown immense potential, with excellent distribution and composure beyond his years. While he is still developing, Greene’s inclusion in the first-team squad underscores DC United’s commitment to nurturing homegrown talent. His progress will be closely monitored as he aims to establish himself as a long-term option.
Defenders
Donovan Pines
Nationality: American
Former Clubs: None (DC United Academy)
Transfer Fee: N/A
Donovan Pines, a towering center-back, has become a cornerstone of DC United’s defense. Standing at 6’5”, Pines dominates aerial duels and is a constant threat during set-pieces. His ability to read the game and make timely interceptions has earned him plaudits across the league. Pines’ loyalty to DC United, having risen through the academy ranks, makes him a symbol of the club’s identity and aspirations.
Andy Najar
Nationality: Honduran
Former Clubs: Anderlecht, LAFC
Transfer Fee: Free transfer (2022)
Andy Najar’s return to DC United in 2022 was a homecoming for the Honduran international. Known for his versatility, Najar can operate as a right-back or center-back, providing tactical flexibility. His experience in European football with Anderlecht has refined his defensive acumen and technical skills. Najar’s leadership and work ethic have made him a key figure in the locker room and on the pitch.
Mohamed El Monir
Nationality: Libyan
Former Clubs: Alanyaspor, LAFC
Transfer Fee: $500,000 (2023)
Mohamad El Monir, a dynamic left-back, joined DC United in 2023 after impressing with his attacking prowess and defensive solidity. The Libyan international’s marauding runs down the flank and pinpoint crosses have added a new dimension to the team’s play. El Monir’s ability to contribute both defensively and offensively makes him an indispensable asset.
Chris Odoi-Atsem
Nationality: American
Former Clubs: None (DC United Academy)
Transfer Fee: N/A
Chris Odoi-Atsem, another academy graduate, has established himself as a reliable right-back. Known for his pace and tenacity, Odoi-Atsem excels in one-on-one situations and provides width in attack. His journey from the academy to the first team is a testament to his dedication and hard work.
Brendan Hines-Ike
Nationality: American
Former Clubs: Kortrijk, D.C. United (re-signed in 2024)
Transfer Fee: $300,000 (2024)
Brendan Hines-Ike returned to DC United in 2024 after a stint in Belgium, where he gained valuable experience in European football. A composed and intelligent defender, Hines-Ike’s ability to play out from the back aligns with the team’s tactical philosophy. His leadership and consistency have solidified his place in the starting lineup.
Midfielders
Russell Canouse
Nationality: American
Former Clubs: Hoffenheim, Bochum
Transfer Fee: $500,000 (2017)
Russell Canouse, a tenacious defensive midfielder, has been a mainstay in DC United’s midfield since joining in 2017. His ability to break up play and distribute the ball efficiently has made him a vital cog in the team’s engine room. Canouse’s work rate and tactical intelligence have earned him the respect of teammates and opponents alike.
Ted Ku-DiPietro
Nationality: American
Former Clubs: None (DC United Academy)
Transfer Fee: N/A
Ted Ku-DiPietro, a rising star from the academy, has quickly become one of the most exciting young midfielders in MLS. His creativity, vision, and technical ability have drawn comparisons to some of the league’s best playmakers. Ku-DiPietro’s development is a testament to DC United’s investment in youth.
Mateusz Klich
Nationality: Polish
Former Clubs: Leeds United, FC Utrecht
Transfer Fee: $1.5 million (2023)
Mateusz Klich, a seasoned midfielder with extensive experience in Europe, joined DC United in 2023. The Polish international’s ability to control the tempo of the game and contribute with goals and assists has been invaluable. Klich’s leadership and experience have elevated the team’s midfield.
Jackson Hopkins
Nationality: American
Former Clubs: None (DC United Academy)
Transfer Fee: N/A
Jackson Hopkins, another academy product, has shown immense promise as a box-to-box midfielder. His energy, versatility, and eye for goal make him a valuable asset. Hopkins’ rapid rise through the ranks highlights the club’s commitment to developing young talent.
Yamil Asad
Nationality: Argentine
Former Clubs: Velez Sarsfield, Atlanta United
Transfer Fee: Free transfer (2024)
Yamil Asad, a creative midfielder, returned to DC United in 2024 after a successful spell in Argentina. Known for his dribbling and playmaking abilities, Asad adds flair and creativity to the team’s attack. His experience and technical skills make him a key contributor.
Forwards
Christian Benteke
Nationality: Belgian
Former Clubs: Crystal Palace, Aston Villa, Liverpool
Transfer Fee: $5 million (2023)
Christian Benteke, a marquee signing in 2023, has been a revelation for DC United. The Belgian striker’s physicality, aerial prowess, and clinical finishing have made him one of the most feared forwards in MLS. Benteke’s experience at the highest level has brought a new dimension to the team’s attack.
Taxiarchis Fountas
Nationality: Greek
Former Clubs: Rapid Vienna, Red Bull Salzburg
Transfer Fee: $2 million (2022)
Taxiarchis Fountas, a versatile forward, has been a consistent goal scorer since joining DC United in 2022. His ability to play across the front line and his knack for finding the back of the net have made him a fan favorite. Fountas’ technical skills and work ethic are key to the team’s success.
Kristian Fletcher
Nationality: American
Former Clubs: None (DC United Academy)
Transfer Fee: N/A
Kristian Fletcher, a promising young forward, has emerged as one of the most exciting prospects in MLS. His pace, dribbling, and finishing ability have drawn comparisons to some of the league’s best attackers. Fletcher’s development is a testament to the club’s focus on youth.
Nigel Robertha
Nationality: Dutch
Former Clubs: Levante, FC Volendam
Transfer Fee: $1 million (2024)
Nigel Robertha, a dynamic forward, joined DC United in 2024. His ability to stretch defenses with his pace and movement has added a new dimension to the team’s attack. Robertha’s versatility and goal-scoring ability make him a valuable asset.
Conclusion
DC United’s 2025 squad is a blend of experience, youth, and tactical versatility. With a strong core of homegrown talents, strategic signings, and seasoned veterans, the team is well-equipped to compete for silverware. The club’s commitment to developing young players while integrating proven stars ensures a bright future. As the season unfolds, fans can look forward to an exciting brand of football and a team that embodies the spirit of DC United.
