FC Cincinnati was formed in 2015 but only started playing in 2016 in the USL Championship where they played three seasons before being awarded an MSL franchise and debuting in the league in 2019.
The club has wasted no time in pushing itself to the top of the MLS hierarchy, finishing top of the league standings and winning the MLS Supporters Shield in 2023, and coming runners-up in 2025. The 2025 finish gave the club its third successive qualification for Concacaf’s top tier club competition.
FC Cincinnati’s success has been under Pat Noonan’s management, who joined the club in December 2021. Having retired as a player, Noonan moved into coaching and spent time at the LA Galaxy, the US men’s national team (both with Bruce Arena) and the Philadelphia Union. FC Cincinnati is his first head coach role.
Noonan is not afraid of change and his first season overhauled his squad with 24 player changes with the support of the club’s new general manager Chris Albright. He also hired Kenny Arena and Dominic Kinnear as assistants.
In his first season he led Cincinnati to fifth place in the Eastern Conference and a first ever MLS Cup play-off spot, eventually losing to Philadelphia Union in the semi-finals.
The 2025 run to the MLS Supporters’ Shield runners up spot (the final MLS league standings ahead of the MLS Cup Play-offs), was achieved with a core of players who are all returning for the 2026 campaign.
Brazilian midfielder/striker Evander was the 2025 Team MVP and top scorer, leading the team in goals, assists, and chances created.
Also key up front in 2025 was new arrival from France, Kévin Denkey. He is expected to shine this season and the opening tie against O&M FC is a big opportunity to open his goal account.
Czech Republic international Pavel Bucha brings a stability and international experience to midfield alongside Nigerian Obinna Nwobodo who is a non-nonsense defensive midfielder.
US national team standout Miles Robinson leads the defensive line up with Roman Celetanon having established himself in goal.