FC Dallas Prepares to Face Charlotte FC
Nico Estevez spoke to reporters today as FC Dallas kicks off its Leagues Cup participation against Charlotte FC.
FC Dallas head coach Nico Estevez was on point as he considered his team’s focus for the Leagues Cup, kicking off tomorrow against Charlotte FC in Frisco.
“For us, it is about going into the next round,” Nico said. “Throughout, we will be thinking about how to introduce some of the players that were injured and that thankfully almost all are ready.”
In his last statement, Nico referenced the incredible amount of injuries this team has experienced over the summer, lowering their season expectations. With this needed break in league action, it gives the staff some flexibility to work players into fitness before Major League Soccer starts up again in August.
“In the injury report, only Tarik and Jesus Jimenez will be out,” Nico said, though he indicated the team would still bring along some players slowly to get them up to gamespeed.
Jesus Ferreira should be able to participate in some form, though he arrived late to Dallas earlier in the day but was able to make a short practice.
I asked Nico about Charlotte FC in particular, noting that FC Dallas has never played this opponent from the Eastern Conference.
“I know Charlotte pretty well,” Nico said, acknowledging that they played against Spanish opponents in the preseason. “I was following them and watching how they play. They also have some players I have coached in the past - Justin Meram and Harrison Afful. They have a very clear idea on how they want to play. They are a brave team. They want to attack. They want goal scoring opportunities. It is going to be a very good game.”
Ultimately, Nico recognizes that this is an opportunity to face some intriguing competition, if they can advance.
“Right now, our mentality is to face the group we have right now,” Nico said. “After we make it through, then we will talk about how we face every single game. Game by game.”
Leagues Cup action kicks off tomorrow evening for FC Dallas.