What Went Wrong: Examining The MLS Teams That Missed The Playoffs

The first order of business for LA will be to figure out Donovan’s situation. Despite saying that he would be back with the Galaxy next year, there are legitimate questions about whether or not he makes the move to the English Premier League. After that the Galaxy will have to sort out the rumors of Ronaldinho joining the team or some other Designated Player. Most important though will be finding another central midfield option. All season long, Los Angeles relied on Juninho to play great or be dominated in the center. Juninho looks likely to return to Los Angeles next year, but Bruce Arena needs to find some more help in the central midfield or risk being exposed when the Brazilian isn’t at top form.

What we learned: Sebstian Le Toux is a king, Mwanga is going to be lethal and Pink Cows are delicious when barbecued.

Where we go from here: Nothing but up. If Le Toux retains his form, Mwanga continues to develop and Nowak fixes the defense and midfield, the Union will be nothing less than a playoff contender in the short term and possibly a big time contender for the championship.

Where we go from here: United is in desperate need of a proven scorer. The team set the record for most scoreless matches in a season with 17. It’s a problem that they know they’ll have to address, and could look to add a second designated player this offseason. The only good news about D.C.‘s terrible record is that they also possess the No. 3 overall pick of the draft.

- Martin Shatzer, Black And Red United