On Thursday, DC United made a significant move in the 2025 MLS SuperDraft by selecting defender Nikola Markovic from North Carolina State with the first pick overall. Markovic, a natural centre-back and former player in MLS Next Pro with CF Montreal, is expected to bolster a defense that struggled last season, conceding 66 goals—the second most in the league. In addition to Markovic, the team also acquired striker Ty Balibo from the Philadelphia Union to replace Christian Benteke, underlining their focus on strengthening both defense and offense.
Markovic, who signed a Generation Adidas contract as one of four underclassmen, was named ACC Defensive Player of the Year and helped lead NC State to the NCAA College Cup championship match. Although NCAA commitments kept him from participating in the MLS combine, a coach from DC United scouted him, showcasing their interest. “We need to improve defensively and offensively,” said Dr. Erkut Sogut, DC United’s managing director of soccer operations. He emphasized Markovic’s leadership qualities both on and off the field, which played a crucial role in their assessment.
Under the direction of coach Rene Weiler, DC United aims to implement a high-tempo, pressing style of play, which Markovic feels aligns well with his skills. He expressed enthusiasm about joining a team with a rich history, emphasizing faith in the club’s rebuilding strategy. “I’m excited to be part of the plan for this team,” Markovic stated.
DC United continued to make headlines by acquiring the eighth pick from the New England Revolution, which they used to draft forward Richie Ammann from Washington. This strategy not only aims to relieve pressure from Markovic but also supports the attack alongside Balibo, showing that the team is gearing up for the future.
MLS SuperDraft 1st Round Results
| Pick | Team | Player | Position | College |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | DC United | Nikola Markovich | Defender | North Carolina |
| 2 | FC Dallas | Ricky Lewis | Forward | Southern Georgia |
| 3 | FC Dallas | Nicholas Simmons | Forward | Virginia |
| 4 | Sporting Kansas City | Itwas Agyaben | Midfielder | Clemson |
| 5 | Orlando City | Harvey Sarrazin | Forward | Wake Forest |
| 6 | Colorado Rapids | Mamadou Bilot Diop | Forward | Colorado Rapids 2 (MLS Next Pro) |
| 7 | St. Louis City SC | Zach Lillington | Defender | University of California, Davis |
| 8 | DC United | Richie Ammann | Forward | Washington |
| … | … | … | … | … |
Fan Take: The selection of Nikola Markovic signals DC United’s commitment to addressing their defensive challenges, which is essential for any team aiming for success in MLS. For soccer fans, this move not only highlights the importance of youth talent in the league but also keeps the excitement alive as clubs reshape their identities for a more competitive future.
