Sporting KC: Expectations rise as 2021 season edges closer
By Nathan Dunn
Who plays in the midfield?
The midfield has the potential to look very similar to last year or completely different. The curveball addition of Remi Walter leaves us guessing as to what to expect. One thing is for sure, the midfield is SKC’s deepest position as things currently stand.
Under contract for 2021 will be Ilie, Walter, Espinoza, Busio, Gadi Kinda, Cameron Duke, and Felipe Hernandez. The club and Gutierrez are still in negotiations, but both are taking it slow since the Chilean international is coming off his long-term injury.
The midfield’s expectations will be to steady the ship. Last season was a little rough, but the talent in the midfield can help to even things out by staying more level when attacking and defending.
As things currently stand, I expect the opening day midfield to be Ilie, Busio, and Espinoza. A lot can change between now and then, but that should be the midfield to start things out. That leaves three very capable midfielders to come in off the bench in addition to the uncertain, yet hopeful, talents of Walter.
The midfield will still need to balance things out. Walter seems to be a versatile midfielder that can provide good cover for the defense and help moving forward as well. We saw breakout seasons from Hernandez and Duke last season, but they will need to be even better this season when their chances come because they won’t be as often in 2021.