D.C. United Roster Overhaul in Hopes to Push for Playoff Return in 2026

After a disappointing 2025 campaign that saw D.C. United finish last overall with 26 points from 34 matches and concede a league-worst 66 goals, the Black-and-Red have moved aggressively this offseason to reshape the roster. With six consecutive seasons without a playoff appearance, the club is intent on reversing course in 2025 and avoiding an unwanted tie with Chicago Fire FC for the longest active postseason drought in MLS history.

Major Signings Signal Ambition

D.C. United’s most surprising move came with the acquisition of Tai Baribo, a dynamic Israeli international forward and MLS All-Star. The club landed Baribo from the Philadelphia Union in a cash-for-player trade worth $4 million, with up to $600,000 in additional incentives tied to performance. Signed as a Designated Player, Baribo is under contract through the 2029–30 season and is expected to be a central figure in United’s attack for years to come.

To bolster the defense, D.C. United added Sean Nealis, a 6-foot-4 center back acquired from New York Red Bulls for $350,000 in General Allocation Money spread across the 2026 and 2027 seasons. Nealis brings MLS experience and aerial presence to a back line that struggled mightily last year.

Veteran leadership arrived between the posts with the signing of Sean Johnson, one of the most accomplished goalkeepers in MLS history. The former U.S. international joined as a free agent on a contract through June 2027, providing stability and experience to a position that has seen frequent turnover.

On the international front, United secured Keisuke Kurokawa, a versatile Japanese defender from Gamba Osaka. Pending visa and transfer clearance, Kurokawa has signed a three-year deal through the 2028–29 season, with a club option for 2029–30. His technical ability and pace add another dimension to D.C.’s defensive options.

Additionally, D.C. United selected North Carolina State University defender Nikola Markovic with the first overall selection in the First Round of the 2026 MLS SuperDraft and acquired the 8th overall selection, forward Richie Aman, in the First Round of the 2026 MLS SuperDraft from the New England Revolution in exchange for $150,000 in 2026 GAM and $50,000 in 2027 GAM.

Departures and Roster Turnover

The offseason also brought notable exits. Midfielder Boris Enow will depart for Beitar Jerusalem in a transfer valued at €510,000 set for January 14th, 2026. In addition, D.C. United declined 2026 contract options for five players: Christian Benteke, Derek Dodson, Kristian Fletcher, Randall Leal, and Rida Zouhir, signaling a clear shift in roster direction.

Current Roster Overview

D.C. United’s roster currently stands at 25 players, including three Homegrown players:

• Goalkeepers (3): Jordan Farr, Kim Joon Hong, Sean Johnson

• Defenders (7): Lucas Bartlett, Aaron Herrera, Kye Rowles, David Schnegg, Garrison Tubbs, Keisuke Kurokawa, Sean Nealis

• Midfielders (9): Oscar Avilez (HG), Caden Clark, Jackson Hopkins(HG), Hosei Kijima, Matti Peltola, Gabriel Pirani, Brandon Servania, Jared Stroud, Gavin Turner (HG)

• Forwards (5): Dominique Badji, Hakim Karamoko, Jacob Murrell, João Peglow, Tai Baribo

More Moves on the Horizon?

According to MLS insider Tom Bogert, D.C. United is also nearing a potential club-record transfer to acquire Romanian international forward Louis Munteanu from CFR Cluj. The reported deal could reach $7 million plus add-ons, further underlining the club’s intent to dramatically upgrade its attacking firepower.

Looking Ahead

With a revamped squad, experienced leadership, and potential additions still in play, D.C. United has made it clear that missing the play-offs is not an option. The pressure is on for the Black-and-Red, four-time MLS Champions; to translate these offseason moves into results on the field and finally return to the MLS Cup Playoffs after a prolonged absence.