Cleaning Up Shop
Boom, what a way to start the offseason! DC United announced on Wednesday, October 19th, the departure of a few key roles within the club. General Manager Lucy Rushton, who also occupied the title of Head of Technical Recruitment & Analysis, was officially fired. Along with the first team Performance Director, Victor Lonchuk.
Lucy Rushton was initially a pioneer in the league, becoming the second female GM. She was hired in 2021 after a successful run with newcomers Atlanta United, lifting the MLS Cup in their inaugural season of 2018. Rushton’s resume speaks for itself, she formerly worked in the English League Championship with multiple clubs. Even won a promotion to the Premier League with Reading Football Club. It’s no question she has a great eye for recruiting talent that fits the team’s bill.
However, the pairing with DC United proved to be an unsuccessful one. Co-Chairmans Jason Levien and Steve Kaplan reiterated the club’s performance was unacceptable. They believe to take that next step to evolve, United had to release Rushton & Lonchuk of their duties. Citing the fans deserved better than this previous season.
New Regime
This departure follows former head coach Hernan Losada, as the club looks to cut its losses. Finishing with a horrendous season, it was clear some shakes up were necessary. Starting from the top-up seems like the correct approach, as results were dwindling. United finished bottom of the table with only 7 wins out of 34 games played. Working alongside head coach Wayne Rooney, the new General Manager must have the responsibility of convincing top talent to join a project that is trending up.
Now, we turn to the club’s higher-ups to see if they can weather the storm. With plenty of time before the start of the 23’ campaign, United should land a solid candidate. Whoever they appoint will have a full offseason including training camp with preseason to assemble a competitive unit. Next season cannot be a repeat of 22’. DC United faithful are ready to pack out Audi Field, it’s time for management to prove they can steer the ship.
