Minnesota United FC announces 2021 roster decisions
Minnesota United FC have announced their roster decisions ahead of the 2022 Major League Soccer season, which is set to kick off on February 26.
The team finished 5th in the Western Conference, but lost in the first round of the MLS Cup Playoffs 3-1 to Portland Timbers. The Loons have not missed the postseason since 2018, qualifying in three of five seasons since joining MLS in 2017.
In the latest round of roster announcements, Minnesota United revealed the shocking departure of Designated Player midfielder Jan Gregus, as well as veterans Ozzie Alonso and Ethan Finlay.
Gregus, 30, joined the team as a designated player in December 2018 and became a starter in the central midfield for two-plus seasons until an ankle injury limited his playing time. Consequently, he has only recorded 18 minutes in last season's final three months.
His departure opens up a DP spot on the roster, leaving the Western Conference team the chance to sign a star.
Finlay had been with Minnesota since their inaugural 2017 season. He had 19 goals and 12 assists in 95 MLS appearances for Minnesota. Alonso arrived ahead of the 2019 season as one of the very best defensive midfielders in league history.
The Loons also declined contract options on Fanendo Adi, Juan Agudelo, Noah Billingsley, Jukka Raitala and Adrian Zendejas. They exercised options on prospects Justin McMaster, Nabi Kibunguchy, Callum Montgomery and D.J. Taylor as well as Metanire.
Contract options declined (Dec. 1, 2021):
- Fanendo Adi (FWD) - eligible for free agency
- Juan Agudelo (FWD) - eligible for free agency
- Noah Billingsley (DEF)
- Jan Gregus (MID)
- Brent Kallman (DEF) - eligible for free agency
- Jukka Raitala (DEF) - eligible for free agency
- Adrian Zendejas (GK) - eligible for free agency
Out of contract (Dec. 1, 2021)
- Osvaldo Alonso (MID) - eligible for free agency
- Ethan Finlay (MID) - eligible for free agency