After bringing in a former MVP and an additional All-Star, Bruce Arena seemed to have the tools to create a potent offense last year. Despite the insane talent across the front line, the attackers’ individual performances failed to lift the team. A year later, with a less high-profile offense, the Quakes found success with a more balanced attack. Going into …
With Timo Werner sidelined for most of the season so far, a step back in the team’s offense may have been expected. Given the team’s defensive tilt, Arena’s offensive changes seem to have gone relatively unnoticed. However, against Sporting KC, the free-flowing attack stole the show. Last season revolved around Arena shoehorning in three very talented but mismatched attackers. While …
One of the signs heralding the start of the MLS offseason comes in the form of roster decisions. Every contract move contributes to the free agent class that promises to be a special one. Headlined by Quakes icon Cristian Espinoza, plenty of players who could make an impact for the team are available in this class. Of course, the first …
After seeing their past two projects fall apart, the front office opted to change its strategy completely. Going from a movement based around building the next era of the Quakes through the academy to one focused solely on the playoffs was quite the shift. From the managerial choice down to the transfers and trades, their strategy determined the team’s season. …
Powering them to an impressive start, the Quakes’ offense looked ready to push this team into a playoff spot. Led by the triad of Arango, Espinoza, and Martínez, Arena tapped into a veteran-led attack. The manager’s decision to build his team around that trio paid off in the beginning, but has slowly started to lose momentum. While defensive concerns remain …
With only two wins in the past two months, in MLS play, the Quakes have plateaued. Struggling with both inconsistent play and absences, the Quakes continue to fall down the standings. As the season nears its end, the pressure continues to mount to return this team to a playoff-caliber one. Against Minnesota United, the Quakes played one of their most …
With another good result this week, the Quakes continue their slow climb back to a playoff spot. Additionally, Arena stumbled on what might be this team’s best lineup without López. As the Argentine nears his return, the Quakes did well not to fall out of the playoff range completely. Last week saw the first real success of the Espinoza at …
With the Quakes finding themselves in the play-in range so far, the team’s potential seems to be in that range. One of the changes made by Bruce Arena coming into this season was moving towards a new formation. To raise their ceiling, the team will need to understand the factors hindering the use of the system. After leaving Los Angeles …
Going into their match against Kansas City, the Quakes looked to keep their good from going. Despite being down a man for most of the second half, Bruce Arena’s side left with all three points. If the opening match showcased their defensive potential, the offensive flashes came out in Kansas. Arena’s decision to play with a three-man backline finally turned …
Going into this offseason, the Quakes handed Bruce Arena a momentous task. Make a team mired in mediocrity into a side that could challenge for a playoff spot. As the team prepares for the preseason, the roster feels closer to a competitive MLS side. Despite some key additions over the past few years, the team still lacked the talent needed …
