Minnesota United FC Looks to Evolve in 2026 Season

New coach, new players, and a fresh start for the Loons as they aim to compete on multiple fronts

Published on Feb. 17, 2026

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Minnesota United FC has undergone significant changes in the offseason, with a new head coach in Cameron Knowles, the departures of key players like Robin Lod and Dayne St. Clair, and the additions of several new faces including James Rodríguez and Drake Callender. The team is looking to evolve its playing style under Knowles, focusing on a higher press and more possession-oriented approach, while still maintaining the solid defensive structure that served them well in 2025. With a mix of veteran experience and young talent, the Loons will compete for multiple trophies in 2026, including the Supporters' Shield, MLS Cup, U.S. Open Cup, and Leagues Cup.

Why it matters

Minnesota United FC is looking to build on their success from the 2025 season and take the next step as a club. The offseason changes, including a new coach and several key roster moves, will shape the team's identity and style of play going forward. Fans are eager to see how the Loons adapt and whether they can compete for multiple titles in 2026.

The details

Minnesota United FC has undergone a significant roster overhaul in the offseason, with 9 new players joining the club and 10 departures. Notable additions include midfielder James Rodríguez, goalkeeper Drake Callender, and forward Mauricio González, while the team lost key contributors like Robin Lod and Dayne St. Clair. New head coach Cameron Knowles has indicated he wants to implement a higher pressing style and a more possession-oriented approach, while still maintaining the defensive solidity that was a hallmark of the 2025 team. The Loons will compete for four trophies this season: the Supporters' Shield, MLS Cup, U.S. Open Cup, and Leagues Cup.

  • The 2026 MLS regular season kicks off this week.
  • The transfer window will remain open until March 26, 2026.
  • Minnesota United FC has already made several roster moves, with 9 new players joining the club and 10 departures since the end of the 2025 season.

The players

Cameron Knowles

The new head coach of Minnesota United FC, taking over from the previous staff.

James Rodríguez

A highly talented midfielder who joined Minnesota United FC as a free agent signing in the offseason.

Drake Callender

The new goalkeeper for Minnesota United FC, acquired via a trade from Charlotte FC.

Robin Lod

A key midfielder who departed Minnesota United FC after his contract option was declined.

Dayne St. Clair

The former starting goalkeeper for Minnesota United FC, whose contract expired at the end of the 2025 season.

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What they’re saying

“This year will be an evolution, adding a little bit more comfort in possession and using the momentum of the match to our advantage.”

— Cameron Knowles, Head Coach (mnufc.com)

“The expectations for this team are the same as always: put in the work, compete on all fronts, and prepare to rise to the occasion at hand.”

— Kyle Hayward, Author (mnufc.com)

What’s next

The Loons will open their 2026 MLS regular season on February 25th against the Seattle Sounders.

The takeaway

Minnesota United FC has undergone a significant roster overhaul and coaching change in the offseason, setting the stage for an intriguing 2026 campaign. The team will look to blend veteran experience with young talent as they aim to compete for multiple trophies, while also evolving their playing style under new head coach Cameron Knowles.