Crucial to a successful squad is a strong midfield core. In 2022, Sacramento’s depth in the middle of the pitch worked wonders, generating scoring chances at an impressive rate and helping the club become one of the most dangerous in transition and toughest on defense, no matter the opponent. Ahead of 2023, the club returns a bulk of last season’s unit, bringing tremendous continuity and setting the stage for another successful campaign.
Luis Felipe
Luis Felipe’s return on a multi-year contract December 20 solidified the midfield, as well as returned one of the club’s top all-around threats. He was the 2022 squad’s leader in appearances (31) and minutes (2,409) in league play, netted three straight game-winners in the U.S. Open Cup, claimed July Goal of the Month, and continued the excellence he’s showed in the game’s less-glamorous aspects since he came to the River City.
His contributions outside the attacking third will be key to the club’s success. The Brazilian breaks up plays at an outstanding clip, evidenced by his squad-leading 50 interceptions, a 56% tackle success rate, and 195 duels won from a season ago. His play connects the backline and forwards in a crucial way, allowing for Sacramento to build forward, play quickly, and feed the players on the flanks.
Matt LaGrassa
Elk Grove native LaGrassa contributed in more ways than one in his first season back in Sacramento. He played a big part in the club’s chance-creation and ability to threaten up top, as well as develop play in the middle of the pitch. He found the net three times in league play and once in the U.S. Open Cup to tie his 2018 career-high for goals in a single year (4), and ranked among the club’s leaders in tackles won (39), duels won (114), and interceptions (34).
He’ll surely play a big part in helping the club open more windows to move the ball and score in 2023. But perhaps more important to the squad will be his ability to lock down attackers looking for free space to take advantage of, shown throughout last season. Strong decision making, and the same comfort and poise no matter the stakes can be expected in 2023, just as they were during the club’s 2022 postseason and Open Cup quests.
Nick Ross
Ross’ contributions flew under the radar but had a big impact last season. With him in the starting XI, the club claimed points in 12 of 18 contests. He tallied one assist on the year, and was the Quails’ most accurate passer, completing 88% of his passes. Without him as a stoppage time substitution in the Open Cup Semifinal, Sacramento may not have had a chance to win in penalties. His quick recognition, and stop of a speedy break by Sporting Kansas City in the final moments of stoppage time may have saved the game.
The Scotsman now enters his fifth year stateside. He’s well acquainted with what the club will see from a stacked western conference, making him well equipped to help push the club forward. Fans may see him in a battle for minutes, but while on the pitch, can be counted on for strong play and valuable consistency.
Arnold Lopez
Lopez officially signed on to join the club on January 25, bringing another midfield presence to the club for 2023. The Venezuelan joins Sacramento from his home country where he most recently featured at Mineros de Guayana. His addition brings another experienced player to the club – throughout his professional career, he’s amassed nearly 10,000 minutes across 11 seasons in top flight leagues and South America’s top competitions. In 2022, posted career highs in both minutes (2,000) and appearances (24).
He brings a strong array of attributes to complement the club’s existing core. An ability to play in holding and attacking roles stands to benefit his new club and open up new tactical opportunities. His confidence on the ball will certainly help the club convert on scoring chances at a higher clip than last season, which that as a result could have his name on the starting XI each week.
