United acquired New York City FC’s French defender Frédéric Brillant in the half-day transfer window that opened on Sunday, Dec. 10.
The Black-and-Red entered the transfer window with the aim of reinforcing their backline after conceding 60 goals in Major League Soccer last season. The Frenchman proved his effectiveness for NYC over two seasons and helped turn their leaky defense around to qualify for the MLS Cup Playoffs in consecutive seasons (2016, 2017).
Head coach Ben Olsen and Dave Kasper, general manager and vice president of soccer operations, are optimistic that Brillant can do the same for United and help shore up their defense in 2018.
The 6-foot-3-inch defender is an imposing figure in the backline with an innate aerial ability that that doubles as defensive cover and an attacking threat on set pieces. The former Belgian First Division A player has a natural aptitude for defending, and his vision and ability to read dangerous situations helps him consistently quell opposition’s build up play. Brillant led the NYC team in clearances (205) and interceptions (90) in 2016 to pave the way to the team finishing second in the Eastern Conference that year.
While defenders are predominantly judged on their ability to prevent goalscoring opportunities for opposition, the modern day center back is also relied on to help start attacking passages of play from the back.
Brillant is composed with the ball at his feet and has the talent to collect and connect passes with the midfielders and forwards. His 1,702 passes for NYC in 2016 was second only to Italian maestro and 2006 World Cup winner Andrea Pirlo (1,848). Brillant connected 1,412 of those passes (83% accuracy) which shows his ability to retain important possession for his team.
With over 500 professional appearances since 2005, Brillant will provide the defensive unit with additional experience and knowledge leading into the 2018 season. With Steve Birnbaum, Kofi Opare and Jalen Robinson all returning next season, Black-and-Red fans can be optimistic about their defensive capabilities next year.
