FC Cincinnati is making headlines in the soccer world as it reportedly finalizes a deal to acquire Czech wingback David Doudera from Slavia Prague. The news, confirmed by Tom Bogert of The Athletic, brings a seasoned player to the team just ahead of the closing of the Major League Soccer (MLS) summer transfer window on September 3. Doudera, who is 28 years old, has experience on the international stage, having been part of the Czechia national team this past spring alongside FC Cincinnati's own Pavel Bucha. He also made an appearance in the World Cup, starting in one group-stage match, and boasts a successful club career with back-to-back league titles at Slavia Prague, alongside seven Champions League appearances.
This signing follows another reported move by FC Cincinnati to bring in center back Julian Malatini on loan from Werder Bremen, although the club has yet to confirm either transaction. Malatini is expected to bolster the defensive lineup, while Doudera will provide depth and options on the wings. Cincinnati has been utilizing midfielders Samuel Gidi and Kyle Smith in center-back roles, and Bucha has frequently played in a right-wing position, which is not his natural fit as he typically plays in central midfield.
General Manager Chris Albright is set to hold a press conference on September 3 to discuss these roster moves and any additional changes. As the team looks to strengthen its squad, the upcoming match against D.C. United on September 5 at TQL Stadium will be a crucial test for the newly assembled roster.
In addition to roster news, FC Cincinnati's midfielder Evander has been recognized as the MLS Player of the Month for July and August 2026. This accolade marks Evander's second consecutive Player of the Month award, having previously won in May. He becomes the first player in MLS to achieve back-to-back Player of the Month honors since Luciano ‘Lucho’ Acosta, also from FC Cincinnati, did so in July and August 2023.
Evander's impressive performance during this period included nine goal contributions—four goals and five assists—over seven matches, placing him at the top of the league in terms of contributions during July and August. Notably, he was involved in 69% of Cincinnati's 13 goals during this stretch, showcasing his pivotal role in the team's offensive strategy. His standout moments included a game-winning assist against Vancouver Whitecaps FC on July 22 and a dramatic late goal against New York City FC on August 19, further solidifying his reputation as a clutch performer.
As FC Cincinnati prepares for its upcoming match, the team is also looking ahead to the 2027 Lamar Hunt U.S. Open Cup, where all 27 U.S.-based MLS clubs, including Cincinnati, will participate. This marks a return to the tournament for Cincinnati, who last competed in 2023, reaching the semifinal stage before falling to Inter Miami. The 2027 tournament will commence with the Round of 64 in July, where MLS clubs will have the advantage of hosting their opening matches.
Additionally, FC Cincinnati will co-host a youth soccer camp with Portuguese club FC Porto on October 16-17. This camp, aimed at boys and girls aged 6-14, will take place at the Mercy Health Training Center and is designed to enhance players' skills under professional coaching. Registration is open, and participants will receive a complimentary camp shirt.
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