FC Dallas returns to action on July 22 after an unusual summer break caused by the World Cup, with the secondary transfer window opening on July 13 — and the club sits 4th in Major League Soccer with 25 points from 15 games (7W-4D-4L, recent form WWLWW).

## Should FC Dallas roll the dice on a title push?

The club’s summer transfer window opens on July 13, giving general manager Nico Estevez a chance to reshape the squad before the season resumes. The big question: does FC Dallas believe it’s a contender now, or is it still in development mode?

If the answer is the former, the club must act fast. Peter Musa remains the crown jewel — a player the author insists should stay unless an offer north of $20 million arrives. At 30 goals scored and 22 conceded (+8 goal difference), the team’s attack is potent, but the midfield lacks a true game-breaking playmaker. A shift to a 4-3-3 could unlock the wingers already on the roster, including Louicius Deedson, Sam Sarver, and Ricky Louis.

## The midfield problem and the DP solution

Ramiro anchors the midfield as a late-arriving defensive specialist, but his limitations force Eric Quill into a double pivot with Kaick. The numbers back it up: Ramiro ranks low in tackles, intercepts, and dribbles past, while leading in fouls and blocks. The club’s current 2 DP / 4 U22 model also includes inefficiencies — two U22s (Enes Sali and Geovane Jesus) are off the books, freeing up a third DP spot.

That extra designation could go to a true No. 6 — a ball-winner who can cover ground and allow Ramiro to play higher. Without that piece, Quill’s hybrid 4-4-2 will keep forcing players out of position, as seen with Ran Binyamin at left back and Joaquín Valiente at right mid.

## U22s and the tactical reset

FC Dallas’ U22 group includes three active players: Binyamin, Patrickson Delgado, and Kaick. Delgado’s move to striker highlights the squad’s flexibility, but the team still lacks a true No. 10. Valiente is a reliable creator, but not a game-breaker. The summer window is the chance to fix that.

With healthy returns expected for Bernie Kamungo, Anderson Julio, and Christian Cappis, Quill will have options. But the club’s shape needs an overhaul. A 4-3-3 would let the wingers fly, while a new DP midfielder could shore up the double pivot.

## What comes next?

The next fixture looms on October 10 against Charlotte, but the real test starts July 22. If Estevez rolls the dice, the club could add a DP midfielder and a creative No. 10. If not, the development plan continues — with Peter Musa leading the charge.

Either way, the summer window is the moment to decide.