DC United kicked off the 2016 with mediocre results, struggling to find chemistry, and barely grinding out wins, more often than not losing or fighting for a draw. After bold offseason moves to trade out #10 Fabian Espindola and acquire Lloyd Sam and Patrick Mullins, the team began to find a strong form.
Finishing the season strong with 31 goals in its last 12 matches, DC looked like a real contender for the MLS Cup, but was quickly dispatched in the first playoff game against the Montreal Impact.
Finishing Position: 4th in Eastern Conference
Post-season: Lost to Montreal in Knockoff Round of Playoffs
After flaming out in the post-season, Head Coach Ben Olsen declared his plan to retain the majority of his starting XI, to strengthen the core and depth of the team, and improve on 2016’s results with this squad.