After an extremely busy offseason where United brought in seven new players and a preseason cut short by the schedule of the Scotiabank CONCACAF Champions League, the new-look Black-and-Red were forced to gel quickly to prepare for the MLS regular season. For Patrick Nyarko, that acclimation came very quickly. The nine-year MLS veteran needed a new spark after 8 seasons with the Chicago Fire, and United offered a new opportunity, a new challenge.
With a revamping of the United midfield, Nyarko earned his way into the starting lineup from the beginning. His experience and presence on the right wing brought a new dynamic to the United attack as Nick DeLeon moved into the middle of the pitch alongside another new signing, Marcelo. But like any player on a new team, it takes some time to adjust. Nyarko played all 180 minutes for United in the quarterfinals of the CONCACAF Champions League, giving him competitive game experience early with his new squad before the MLS regular season.
After featuring in the starting eleven in United’s season opener at LA, Nyarko was forced off with a head injury in the second half and subsequently missed the New England match. After following league protocol and a week of training, Nyarko was cleared to return to the starting lineup on Sunday for the home opener against Colorado Rapids.
With the home crowd providing invigorating support, Nyarko came out with energy and an aggressive style of play that caused problems all evening for the Rapids defense. Using his speed--a threat that United have been searching for in recent seasons-- Nyarko burned down the right wing all game and looked spry taking on defenders one-on-one and forcing desperation tackles from the Rapids. He went on to win a team-high 6 fouls, many of which led to dangerous positions for free kicks outside the box. While United left a lot to be desired from set pieces on Sunday, Nyarko’s ability to get the team into those situations is a positive sign.
Nyarko continues to find his comfort zone on the wing and build relationships on the pitch, offering United a new dangerous attacking option. FC Dallas will be another strong test early in the season on Saturday. If Nyarko can find the same space against the Toros’ back line, especially with Walker Zimmerman and Maynor Figueroa away on national team duty, United will have plenty of options going forward.
United take on FC Dallas this Saturday, March 26th, at 5:30pm at RFK. Tickets are available here or check out the Green & Red Star Matchday offer.
