A completely revamped team under head coach Wilfried Nancy, Columbus is not only back in the playoffs after missing out in 2022, but has all the makings to contend for a title.
Rossi’s seamless integration after just eight starts is further evidence of Nancy’s tactical acumen and ability to get the most out of a team that went undefeated over the last six games of the season (3W-0L-3D) and finished third in the league standings overall. with 57 points, just behind supporters’ shields FC Cincinnati (69) and Orlando City SC (63).
With so much going for them, how are the crew just dark horse candidates rather than full favorites? The inability to finish games this season revealed a weak spot for Columbus, which fell 22 points from the top spot in 2023. That’s the second worst in all of MLS.