FC Dallas 2023 MLS season preview: Tactics, predicted XI, predictions

After taking a big leap forward in 2022, FC Dallas head into the new MLS campaign looking to leave their mark.

The Texas side returned to the MLS Cup Playoffs in style, finishing third in the Western Conference and boasting the second-best defensive record in the entire league - only the Philadelphia Union conceded fewer goals (26) than their (37).

Head coach Nico Estevez has found a formula that works and, powered by some of the most exciting young players in Major League Soccer, Dallas should once again find themselves as contenders in 2023.

So, here's everything you need to know about FC Dallas ahead of the new MLS season, including tactics, key players, and predictions.

How did FC Dallas perform in 2022?

• Regular season: 3rd in Western Conference
• MLS Cup Playoffs: Western Conference Semi-Finals
• US Open Cup: Round-of-32

FC Dallas transfer activity

Transfers in

Transfers out

Nico Estevez: Tactics and style of play

Hailing from Spain and having worked at Valencia during their heyday under Rafa Benitez, Nico Estevez has learned his trade from some of the best around.

It's no surprise, then, that Dallas fully committed to a disciplined yet very fluid position style of play - fluid in that every player performed their role brilliantly, making the collective function as a well-oiled machine.

In their 4-3-3- system, FC Dallas negated their previous defensive misgivings by dominating the ball and making sure there were no gaps for counter-attacks when possession was turned over. Going forward, Dallas won the ball back high and were monstrous in transition with the speed from Jesus Ferreira, Alan Velasco, and Paul Arriola.

It ain't broke, so don't expect Estevez to fix it this season.

FC Dallas predicted XI (4-3-3): Paes; Twumasi, Martinez, Tafari, Farfan; Quignon, Pomykal, Lletget; Arriola, Ferreira, Velasco.

Who is FC Dallas' key player?

Alan Velasco

FC Dallas have an abundance of excellent attacking options at their disposal, but none are as talented as Alan Velasco.

The 20-year-old Argentina youth international performed brilliantly during his first season in the United States, hitting seven goals and five assists in 30 appearances across all competitions. He also topped out among his teammates in terms of key passes per 90 minutes (2.06) and completed 45 dribbles - at least 18 more than any other Dallas player.

In short, Velasco was a menace and already, European clubs are keeping tabs on his developments and considering offers. If he continues his 2022 form this time around, the queue will be out the door.

FC Dallas 2023 season prediction

As mentioned, FC Dallas are stacked in attacking areas, while they're also strong in midfield and at full-back, and have one of the most tactically astute head coaches in MLS.

Perhaps center-back is a slightly weaker spot, but the system Estevez has in place allows Dallas to plug any gaps and be ready for almost any eventuality.

Velasco has a year under his belt, Ferreira is now a proven goalscorer, and Paxton Pomykal is a fully fit and established MLS midfielder. There's no reason to suggest they can't sustain their success this year, if not get even better.

Will FC Dallas make the MLS Cup Playoffs? Yes