FC Cincinnati 2022 Preview

Previous Year Recap

If you’re a returning MLS Fantasy player or someone who is already familiar with Major League Soccer, then you already know what I’m about to say and can just skip ahead to the next section. For everyone else, don’t worry, this will be quick. For the past three years, FC Cincinnati has been the worst team in MLS. Not like, “oh man that was a rough season” worst, but the actual rock bottom wooden spoon kind of worst. 

In 2021 FC Cincinnati fired its coach, Again; failed to consistently score, Again; conceded the most goals, Again; and finished dead last in the league. On the positive side, a couple of investments started to look like they might pay off but it was far too little and too late.

Fantasy Players to Watch

OK, now that all of you veteran and new players are on the same page, I’m sure you’re wondering why you would even want to consider an FC Cincinnati player? The main answer to that question comes at the end of this preview, but before you just keep jumping down the page, you need to know one more thing… The Orange and Blue COMPLETELY overhauled their leadership. 

At the top is Chris Albright who is bringing his experience and winning formula from Philadelphia to Cincinnati. Next, is new head coach, Pat Noonan who was a successful assistant coach with the La Galaxy, Philadelphia Union, and US Men’s National Team. Finally, Noonan will be supported by a veteran group of assistant coaches including Dominic Kinnear and Kenny Arena. It can no longer be said that FC Cincinnati is being led by individuals who do not understand MLS and these men have the best chance of getting the most out of the following players.

Goalkeeper

This is a position where Cincinnati has struggled, however picking up veteran backup keeper Alec Kann ($5.5) from Atlanta was a perfect way to address this deficiency. Kann is instantly the #1 keeper option and his starting price shows that the game designers also respect his skill. I’m not picking him up on day 1, but this is the most viable an FC Cincinnati keeper has ever been.

Defender

The backline for Cincinnati has traditionally been a trap for fantasy managers as the clean sheets have been few and far between. However, the addition of Ronald Matarrita ($6.5) in 2021 gave Cincinnati a wingback who is actually dangerous and more consistent than other players like Cameron, Powell, and Gaddis.

MIdfielder

Cincinnati’s attack lives and dies with Luciano Acosta ($9.0). He was the best player in 2021 and based on early preseason chatter, he’ll factor heavily into Noonan’s plans for success. If that happens. Acosta will be Cincinnati’s top point earner and could be an early value fantasy option.

Forwards

Yes, I added an “s” this time because I’m going to mention two players. Brenner ($8.5) was the big signing in 2021 but his goal output was less than what everyone hoped for. He has promise, so I’m hoping a better coaching staff gets more out of him. He’s joined by 2021 free agent Dominique Badji ($6.0) who will be a dangerous option off the bench and could help create a healthy rivalry with Brenner

Fantasy Expectations

Over the past three years, FC Cincinnati’s greatest fantasy value has been their failures because low player prices have made them ideal targets when setting up switcheroos that don’t break your bank. Because of this I guarantee Cincinnati players will be in your starting lineup at least once in 2022. Other than that, I don’t expect Cincinnati players to be any more than long shot differential options at best, but only if the stars have aligned.

Potential Starting XI