Football Season Guide

Real Salt Lake were certainly not at their best during the 2016 season, however, they still managed to put in a respectable performance, finishing the campaign in sixth position and being knocked out of the playoffs by the Los Angeles Galaxy. Juan Manuel Martinez, Joao Plata and Yura Movsisyan would all contribute to the goals, scoring a total of 25 between them. This campaign, Jeff Cassar’s team will be hoping to improve on last season’s performance, but they will know that it’s going to be a big ask with the competitiveness of the league increasing every year. Perhaps the most difficult decision made by the club in the off-season, was letting veteran midfielder Javier Morales leave to join up with FC Dallas. However, after a poor campaign last season which saw him find the back of the net only 4 times, maybe it was the right time to let the 36 year old go. In addition to Morales’ departure, the club have also since parted ways with Juan Manuel Martinez, Jamison Olave, Jeff Atinella, and Boyd Okwuonu. While none of these were overwhelmingly exceptional for Salt Lake during their spell at the club they all contributed greatly to the team and will most definitely be missed. In terms of incomings, Jeff Cassar has strengthened his team over the last few months with a stream of reliable players who are likely to do a job for the squad. The acquisitions of both Chad Barrett and David Horst fit this criteria perfectly, both experienced Major League Soccer regulars. The additional signings of Albert Rusnak, Matt Van Oekel, and youngster Brooks Lennon from Liverpool, will all surely contribute as well. A tough home clash with last season’s MLS Cup finalists, Toronto FC awaits Salt Lake on the opening day, which would most definitely inspire some confidence if they were able to get a win.