Pre-Match Press Conference: DC United’s René Weiler and Matti Peltola Stress Confidence, Discipline Ahead of Miami Clash

Washington, D.C. – Newly appointed DC United head coach René Weiler and midfielder Matti Peltola spoke to the media ahead of Saturday’s clash with Inter Miami, sharing reflections on the team’s struggles, tactical adjustments, and the path forward as United looks to halt an 11-match winless streak.

Building Blocks and Tactical Adjustments

Weiler, who has only had two weeks with the squad, admitted that the transition has been far from simple but said he feels welcomed and energized by the challenge.“Every beginning is not easy. Everybody’s new, everything is new, not everything is installed yet. But I have arrived. I feel welcomed and it was a great start. I’m happy with it,” he said.

The Swiss coach acknowledged that experimenting with players in different roles is part of the process. “I try to implement some important topics for me, but I can’t change it from one day to the other, not in the first two weeks. It takes a little bit more time.”

Peltola, a Finnish international who joined in the summer, echoed that adaptation has been key. “René has been clear: we focus on the performance every day. Different roles, small tactical changes—it is a learning process,” he said. “The team is excited, in good spirits. Confidence is a key factor—if you do not have it you will struggle.”

Facing Miami Without Key Players

Looking ahead to Miami, Weiler called the match a “big challenge” against one of MLS’s benchmark teams. The Black-and-Red will be without striker Christian Benteke and Boris Enow due to yellow-card accumulation, while Caden Clark, Lucas MacNaughton, and Kristian Fletcher remain sidelined with injuries. “We have to be compact, defend better, and still find ways to score goals. Benteke is missing, so we need to find solutions with the players available,” he said.

Peltola added that the team must find bravery in attack despite the setbacks. “It has been a tough season. We are not getting the results, which makes it hard to enjoy every day, even in training. But there were some good things in the game against Montreal. We need to double down on them, improve, and against Miami we have to play bravely and attack in many different ways.”

Restoring Confidence and Reconnecting with Fans

United’s long winless run has taken a psychological toll, and Weiler acknowledged confidence must be rebuilt step by step. “There’s a lack of confidence and frustration around the club, but after periods like that, the sun is going to rise and shine again. We have to try to turn it, and hopefully we start tomorrow against Miami.”

Peltola echoed that sentiment. “We need to lift up as players, do our best and perform better. Focus on the basics and try to work your way back,” he said. He also credited Weiler and assistant Thomas Schneider with introducing routines designed to strengthen preparation, including arriving at the stadium a day before home matches.

On reconnecting with supporters, Weiler added: “We have to emotionalize the players, and the players have to emotionalize the fans. Hopefully supporters don’t stop cheering us, because times will change. We have to be contagious and play in a way that the fans like.”

Long-Term Vision and Reinforcements

Weiler confirmed that discussions with ownership have included plans for reinforcements in the winter transfer window. “They know it themselves. You just have to see the ranking—it needs changes, it needs reinforcements. Of course, it was part of the discussions, but first we have to work internally.”

He also emphasized the importance of youth development as the foundation for DC United’s future. “Everywhere in the world, the academy is the base. We have to bring out the young players and help them make a career. It’s a very important part.”

Looking Ahead

Despite the current struggles, both coach and player expressed belief that the team is heading in the right direction. “Confidence only comes with results,” Weiler said. “Less talk is often more—we have to act, we have to bring it to the field. It won’t change from one day to the other, but I’m convinced we’re going to change it.”

Peltola added: “René’s message before Montreal was clear—defensively and offensively. We have to build on that, stay brave, and keep improving.”

United (4-8-12) hosts Miami (13-5-6) on Saturday night at Audi Field in a matchup that will test René Weiler’s early tactical tweaks as D.C. looks to snap an 11-match winless streak against one of MLS’s top sides.