Already with a deep and talented squad, FC Dallas have added a pair of intriguing new players to head coach Luchi Gonzlez's disposal.
Within a few days of the Secondary Transfer Window opening, Dallas announced the acquisition of Colombian attacking midfielder Andres Ricaurte on loan from Independiente Medellin, then Brazilian youth international goalkeeper Phelipe Megiolaro on loan from Gremio. It's a blend of youth and experience, as Ricaurte is a 28-year-old No. 10 who had sent his entire career in Colombia while Megiolaro is a 21-year-old youth international who has also been called into the senior national team.
“Andres has vision and a special last pass," Gonzalez told reporters on a video conference call. "He knows how to get in pockets and every time he receives the ball, he’s always looking at the last line. It’s a characteristic that can complement our players.”
The players won't be ready for first team action just yet, of course. Ricaurte is expected in Dallas this week while Megiolaro within the next two. When each arrive, they'll have to quarantine then go through medical protocols before being able to participate in training. In other words, don't expect their debuts imminently. When the pair are available for selection, though, Gonzalez will have even more selection headaches.
Ricaurte in particular should give his new coach plenty to consider when deciding how his team will lineup. He's a traditional No. 10, different than Paxton Pomykal and Jesus Ferreira. For whatever nuance the team is looking for, Gonzalez will now have a specific option to achieve that. Pomykal, Ferreira and Ricaurte can also all play multiple positions, with the new arrival from Colombia also capable as a false winger of sorts.
Megiolaro, meanwhile, will push current starter Jimmy Maurer for minutes.
“He’s coming in to compete," Gonzalez said of Megiolaro. "Yeah he’s young, but he’s coming from a strong club and has had international experience. ... “He has good distribution, feet, vision and he’s confident with the ball. That’s important for us. In between the poles, he has good reactions and is agile."
Dallas next take the pitch on Friday against the Houston Dynamo (8 pm ET | MLS Live on ESPN+ in US, DAZN in Canada).
