Houston Dynamo look to bounce back with revamped roster

Owner Ted Segal has invested heavily in the team's roster, aiming to return to the MLS Cup Playoffs after missing out in 2025.

Published on Feb. 20, 2026

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The Houston Dynamo failed to make the MLS Cup Playoffs in 2025, finishing 12th in the Western Conference. Owner Ted Segal has responded by providing significant investment to upgrade the team's roster, bringing in several new key players like Mateusz Bogusz, Guilherme, and Lucas Halter. The Dynamo are hoping the revamped squad can help the team return to the postseason and compete for its first MLS Cup since 2007.

Why it matters

The Dynamo's failure to make the playoffs in 2025 was a disappointment for the club and its fans, who had grown accustomed to the team being a consistent contender. Segal's aggressive offseason moves to improve the roster demonstrate his commitment to getting the Dynamo back on track and challenging for trophies once again.

The details

The Dynamo struggled mightily on offense in 2025, scoring just 43 goals - the fourth-lowest total in the Western Conference. Their leading scorer, Ezequiel Ponce, had only 10 goals. To address this, the team acquired midfielders Mateusz Bogusz and Guilherme, who have proven track records as productive attackers. Defensively, the team also brought in center-back Lucas Halter to shore up the backline. Additionally, the Dynamo welcomed back veteran midfielder Héctor Herrera to provide leadership and experience.

  • The Dynamo will open their 2026 regular season at home against the Chicago Fire on February 25.
  • On February 28, Houston will host LAFC, bringing former Premier League star Son Heung-min to town.
  • The Dynamo will have a month-long break in June to coincide with the 2026 FIFA World Cup.

The players

Ted Segal

The owner of the Houston Dynamo, who has provided significant investment to upgrade the team's roster in the offseason.

Mateusz Bogusz

A 24-year-old Polish midfielder acquired from LIGA MX team Cruz Azul for a reported $10 million transfer fee, one of the biggest signings in Dynamo history.

Guilherme

A 30-year-old Brazilian midfielder with 95 goals and 44 assists in his 10-year professional career, most recently starring for Brazilian Série A team Santos FC.

Lucas Halter

A defender transferred in from Brazilian Série A side Botafogo, who spent 2025 on loan captaining Esporte Club Vitória.

Héctor Herrera

A former Dynamo captain who spent a season in his native Mexico but has returned to Houston in 2026 to provide veteran leadership.

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What they’re saying

“The way that this roster is assembled, it is highly talented. It's one that we have hopes will finish in that top four of the league. That gives you a chance to really control your own destiny.”

— Ted Segal, Owner (Houston Chronicle)

“We've got some really interesting players. I think we have a better attack, for sure. We'll be better on the offensive side of things. And I think we have more experience and savvy on the defensive end... I know it's a cliche, but I think we're going to be better in both boxes.”

— Ben Olsen, Manager (Houston Chronicle)

What’s next

The judge in the case will decide on Tuesday whether or not to allow Walker Reed Quinn out on bail.

The takeaway

This offseason overhaul of the Houston Dynamo roster demonstrates the club's commitment to returning to the MLS Cup Playoffs and competing for trophies. The significant investments in new attacking talent and defensive reinforcements have raised expectations, and the Dynamo will be closely watched to see if the revamped squad can deliver on the promise.