New England Revolution 2024 Midseason Recap and Player Ratings

FOXBOROUGH, MA– New England Revolution have passed the midway point of the 2024 MLS Season with a record of 7W-2D-14L, 23 points, and hold the position of 27th place across Major League Soccer (15th in Eastern Conference).

Yes, I am a month late from last year…. Deal with it.

With 13 total games to go until the start of the MLS Cup Playoffs, it’s important to recap the somewhat good, mostly bad, and a lot of the ugly of the rollercoaster of a season that New England has endured so far.

Wins: 10

C.A. Independiente, C.A. Independiente, L.D Alajuelense, Charlotte City SC, Chicago Fire FC, Nashville SC, New York Red Bulls, Vancouver Whitecaps, FC Cincinatti, Atlanta United

After a hot start in Concacaf Champions Cup, New England cruised through the first two rounds. In MLS however, their first win in MLS came 40 days into the season against Charlotte. They then found their next win in MLS 28 days later versus Chicago. You wouldn’t believe it, but their next win in MLS came again, 28 days later, this time versus Nashville. From there, they went on a 3-game win streak against RBNY, Vancouver & Cincinnati. With a two-week skid in-between, their last win came against Atlanta United on July 3rd.

Losses: 16

D.C. United, Toronto FC, Atlanta United, FC Cincinnati, Club América, Club América, New York City FC, Toronto FC, Inter Miami CF, New York Red Bulls, Philadelphia Union, New York City FC, Columbus Crew SC, Seattle Sounders, Orlando City SC, Philadelphia Union

The Revolution’s first loss of the season on February 24th was quite the start. A 3-1 loss with your DP forward getting a red card 25 minutes in. Not ideal. New England began the season with 4 straight losses spanning from the DC result to Cincinatti. With then a brutal showing versus Club América, which resulted in a 9-2 aggregate bouncing from the Concacaf Champions Cup, it was not looking pretty for New England. Upon their elimination, they went on a 3-game losing streak which spanned from NYCFC to Inter Miami. They then got a result, then went on yet another 3-game losing streak from RBNY to NYCFC. After a stellar month of May, their worst losses of the season came at home in a 5-1 defeat versus Columbus. They got a result and then went on yet another 3-game skid with a midweek loss at Seattle, a home defeat versus Orlando, and a yet another blowout 5-1 loss, this time versus Philadelphia.

Draws: 3

L.D Alajuelense, Chicago Fire FC, FC Dallas

In the draw department, the Revolution drew in an essential throw-away game versus L.D Alajuelense in a Concacaf Champions Cup tie that they had essentially already won. Carles Gil didn’t travel and was instead seen at a Boston Celtics game. It was that secured. During league play, New England pulled a comeback 1-1 draw versus Chicago due to a first-half stoppage time goal by Nacho Gil. Recently, the squad drew FC Dallas at home after a controversial penalty-kick call at home led to a 90+5th minute equalizing penalty kick.

It’s important to note the overall status of results, but to not shy away from individual player grades. Here is how I would grade each individual player on the New England Revolution up to the MLS All-Star Game.

Individual Player Grades:

#1 – Henrich Ravas- Midseason Grade: C- | End of Season Grade: C-

Henrich Ravas was signed by New England in January of 2024 as the replacement to Tomáš Vaclík. He started on the right foot and appeared in 12 matches for New England, but then disappeared. It was extremely interesting to view the fall-off of Ravas. He was called-up for the Slovakia National Team for the 2024 European Championships and was later sold to Ekstraklasa side MKS Cracovia for an undisclosed fee.

6.88 average match rating, 1080 minutes played. 18 goals conceded with 1 error leading to goals. He held a 1.5 Goals Against Average and 76.7% Save Percentage with 39 total saves. He ended with 4 clean sheets and held 68.4% pass accuracy with a 33.8% long ball success rate.

He missed 0 games due to injury.

(0 Team of the Matchday appearances.)

#2 – Dave Romney – Midseason Grade: C+ | End of Season Grade: TBD

The 2023 Ironman started the year off strong before he was relegated to the bench by head coach Caleb Porter with poor form and poor chemistry being the key reasons. He was almost traded along with DeJuan Jones for offers as low as $50,000 in GAM in the April transfer window. Upon improvements in training and callouts from the local media that got national attention, Romney returned to the lineup. Since returning to the lineup, New England improved but more-or-less returned to the same. Overall, Romney isn’t the problem. He hasn’t been great, but he hasn’t been good either. A solid C+ rating would be sufficed so far.

6.45 average match rating, 1766 Minutes played, 0 goal & 0 assists. 2 shot on target with 86% pass accuracy, 64% on tackles won, 55 clearances along with 8 interceptions. He had 0 errors leading to goals.

He missed 0 games due to injury.

(0 Team of the Matchday appearances.)

#3 – Xavier Arreaga – Midseason Grade: B- | End of Season Grade: TBD

A player that was acquired for a 2025 International Roster slot & 75,000 in Garber bucks, Arreaga has done quite well with his tenure so far in New England. He has emerged as Porter’s guy in the backline and has looked promising going forward. There have been a few lapses that have resulted in goals against, but in short, Arreaga is a B- for the season so far.

6.65 average match rating, 1,473 Minutes played. 0 goals & 0 assists. 87% pass accuracy, 60% on tackles won, with 43 clearances along with 0 interceptions. He had 3 errors leading to goals.

He missed 0 games due to injury.

(1 Team of the Matchday appearance.)

#4 – Henry Kessler – Midseason Grade: B | End of Season Grade: TBD

King Kessler started off this season on a mission. With a new contract and hopeful with the addition of Caleb Porter, Kessler was a solidified piece in the Revolution’s backline. He was sidelined for a month after he had picked up his 5th yellow card and was suspended for card accumulation and Porter ran with Romney and Arreaga instead. Since the falling of form, Kessler has been placed back into the XI. I believe Kessler is the strongest defender on the team and I think he’s has quite a good season so far. Has had a few controversial decisions go against him that led to dropping of points, though I would give Kessler a B rating thus far.

6.51 average match rating, 1,386 Minutes played, 0 goals & 0 assists. 88% pass accuracy, 67% on successful dribbles, 70% on tackles won, 38 clearances along with 0 interceptions. Had 1 error leading to goals.

He Missed 2 games due to injury.

(0 Team of the Matchday appearances.)

#5 – Tomás Chancalay – Midseason Grade: A- | End of Season Grade: A-

(OUT FOR SEASON – TORN ACL)

Tomás Chancalay, where do we even start. Tomás showed why he was a Designated Player quite early for New England. Unfortunately, Chancalay went down due to a Torn ACL versus New York City FC at home, and his season is over. He finishes with 6 goals and 1 assist.

7.3 average match rating, 1325 Minutes played. 6 goals and 1 assist. 24 total shots on target with 70% pass accuracy, 54% on successful dribbles, and 20 chances created with 1 big chance missed. Defensively he was 43% on tackles won, 4 clearances along with 2 interceptions. 0 errors leading to goals.

He will miss 23 games in 2024 due to injury.

(1 Team of the Matchday appearances.)

#6 – Jonathan Mensah – Midseason Grade: C- | End of Season Grade: TBD

Mensah is definitely a strange player to grade for this Revolution side. With 11 matches played this season, the player has been clearly a depth piece for this team. He’s done his job when called on and has been okay at best. He’s the definition of a utility guy. Overall, a weird player to have.

6.3 average match rating, 536 Minutes played. 0 goals and 0 assists. 0 shots on target with 90% pass accuracy, 100% on tackles won, 8 clearances along with 3 interceptions. Had 2 errors leading to goals.

He missed 0 games due to injury.

(0 Team of the Matchday appearances.)

#8 – Matt Polster – Midseason Grade: B+| End of Season Grade: TBD

I said it last year too. To casual fans, Polster isn’t someone you’d pay much attention to, but to the ones that watch weekly or pay close attention to the little things, Polster is one of the most important players on the field week in and week out. The midfielder is all over the field and when he “goes missing” it’s very visible in both how the team performs. Though at times it isn’t the prettiest, he does his job well, and proves week-in and week-out that he is a good player to have on this roster. A proven leader and I enjoy his contributions on the field. Altogether, I think a B+ rating is smart for Polster

7.1 average match rating, 2216 Minutes played. 0 goals and 1 assist. 3 total shots on target with 90% pass accuracy, 79% on successful dribbles, and 13 chances created. Defensively he was 68% on tackles won, 16 clearances along with 4 interceptions. He had 0 errors leading to goals.

He missed 1 game due to injury.

(0 Team of the Matchday appearance.)

#9 – Giacomo Vrioni – Midseason Grade: A- | End of Season Grade: TBD

The 25-year-old designated player struggled to begin the season; however, his recent form has shown that the Designated Player that we signed all along is there. With recent form, Vrioni has been the best player on New England this season. He has already surpassed the amount of goals & assists that he scored last season, and his form is improving. An A- rating is perfect for Vrioni.

7.1 average match rating, 1,902 Minutes played, 11 goals with 3 assists. 29 shots on target. He had a 70% pass accuracy, with 11 chances created and 8 big chances missed along with 39% dribbles completed. Defensively, he was 85% on tackles won and had 2 clearances and 4 interceptions.

He has missed 2 games due to injury.

(2 Team of the Matchday appearances.)

#10 – Carles Gil – Midseason Grade: B+ | End of Season Grade: TBD

The 2021 MLS Most Valuable Player has continued to show that he is a major contributor to this team. He is the proven team leader and is all-around the best at contributing. His 5 goals and 4 assists are massive to this team. I want to see more from Carles though. He’s definitely slowing down but overall has to return to his top form across the standard that he has provided in the league. Overall, Capi has shown positive involvement and deserves a B+ rating for the season so far.

7.4 average match rating, 1,757 Minutes played. 5 goals and 4 assists. 29 total shots on target with 83% pass accuracy, 64% on successful dribbles, 32% on accurate crosses and 66 chances created. Defensively he was 82% on tackles won, 2 clearances along with 7 interceptions. He had 0 errors leading to goals.

He missed 6 games due to injury.

(3 Team of the Matchday appearances.)

#11 – Dylan Borrero – Midseason Grade: C | End of Season Grade: TBD

Dylan Borrero returned from his Right ACL tear and has done okay. Though it is difficult to return from an injury of that stature, he has done well. Overall, New England needs more from the U22 initiative player. He is a C so far this season.

7.1 average match rating, 505 Minutes played, 0 goals with 2 assists. 7 shots on target. He had a 84% pass accuracy, with 4 chances created and 3 big chances missed along with 50% dribbles completed. Defensively, he was 100% on tackles won and has 2 clearances along with 8 interceptions.

He missed 20 games due to injury.

(0 Team of the Matchday appearances.)

#12 – Nick Lima – Midseason Grade: B- | End of Season Grade: TBD

Defender Nick Lima was acquired in the offseason for $275,000 in Garber bucks to perform duties to assist due to the injury to Brandon Bye. Lima stepped up with a larger role within the team and did-so with an average fashion. Overall, a B- grade would be sufficient for Lima.

6.7 average match rating, 1,730 Minutes played. 1 goal and 1 assist. Has an 85% pass accuracy, 42% on successful dribbles, and 4 chances created. Defensively he was 86.95% on tackles won, 5 clearances along with 1 interception. He had 3 errors leading to goals.

He missed 3 games due to injury.

(0 Team of the Matchday appearances.)

#14 – Ian Harkes – Midseason Grade: B | End of Season Grade: TBD

Ian Harkes has been a solid player this season. Next to Matt Polster or in a wider role, Harkes has shown up on numerous occasions to assist this team. I would put him in my top 5 players of the season for this team. Overall, a B rating at the midway point.

6.78 average match rating, 606 Minutes played, 1 goal with 0 assists. He’s had 7 shots with 85% pass accuracy, 45% on successful dribbles, and 8 chances created. Defensively he was 58% on tackles won, 9 clearances along with 3 interceptions. 1 error leading to goals.

He missed 0 games due to injury.

(0 Team of the Matchday appearances.)

#15 – Brandon Bye – Midseason Grade: C | End of Season Grade: TBD

Wingback Brandon Bye tore his right ACL in a Leagues Cup match versus Atlas FC last season. Since returning, Bye has shown solid progress and has just gotten back to match fitness. Overall, a C rating is the best we can give Bye.

6.3 average match rating, 289 Minutes played, 0 goals with 0 assists. 2 shot on target with 77% pass accuracy, 67% on successful dribbles, 50% on tackles won, 0 clearances along with 2 interceptions. He had 0 errors leading to goals.

Has missed 22 matches due to injury.

(0 Team of the Matchday appearances.)

#16 – Joshua Bolma – Midseason Grade: D+ | End of Season Grade: TBD

The 4th overall pick in the 2023 MLS Super Draft has not appeared for the first team this season. For the Revs II, the player has made 15 appearances and has been an average contributor. With 1 goal and 1 assist, the player has been a utility player by playing both on the wings, in the backline, and in the midfield. The overall rating of a D+ would make sense for Bolma due to his contributions for the first team being non-existent, and his role with Revs II being relegated to essentially off the bench.

With the first team: No Matches Played

With the second team: 6.59 average match rating, 502 minutes played. 1 goal, 1 assist with 14 shots on target 81% pass accuracy, 63% on successful dribbles and 11 chances created. Defensively he was 50% on tackles won with 8 interceptions.

He missed 0 first team games due to injury.

(0 Team of the Matchday appearances.)

#17 – Bobby Wood – Midseason Grade: D | End of Season Grade: TBD

Bobby Wood has had a horrible start to the 2024 campaign. A player that had multiple goals last season has played only 1 game over 60 minutes this season. Plagued with injuries to his calf, knee, as well as an illness, Wood has been bad. The rating of D is the best I can do for Bobby Wood.

6.3 average match rating, 318 Minutes played, 1 goal with 0 assists with 6 shots on target. He had a 68% pass accuracy, with 2 chances created and 2 big chances missed along with 50% dribbles completed. Defensively, he was 50% on tackles won and has 2 clearances along with 0 interceptions. He had 0 errors leading to goals.

He missed 10 games due to injury.

(0 Team of the Matchday appearances.)

#18 – Emmanuel Boateng – Midseason Grade: C | End of Season Grade: TBD

Emmanuel Boateng has remained as the guy you need off the bench. He has used the term “role player” to a new level, and likely would be an option at a plethora of other MLS clubs if they came calling for his number, but the player wanted to remain in New England. He’s had an okay end of the season and has contributed when he played. The rating of C would be perfect for Boateng.

6.5 average match rating, 1453 Minutes played, 2 goal with 2 assists. 6 shots on target with 60% accuracy. He had an 83% pass accuracy, 21% cross accuracy with 10 chances created and 3 big chances missed along with 58% dribbles completed. Defensively, he was 43% on tackles won and has 3clearances along with 2 interceptions. He had 0 errors leading to goals.

He missed 5 games due to injury.

(0 Team of the Matchday appearances.)

#21 – Nacho Gil – Midseason Grade: C | End of Season Grade: TBD

Nacho started the season off on the right foot and was shown to be a solid contributor on the field. His knee injury in the closing minutes of the April 28th match versus Inter Miami was a gut punch. Overall, Nacho can be given a C- rating for his contributions this season. His return is still TBD.

7.1 average match rating, 858 minutes played. 2 goals and 2 assists with 81% pass accuracy, 21% on successful dribbles, 21% on accurate crosses and 7 chances created. Defensively he was 65% on tackles won, 2 clearances along with 6 interceptions. 0 errors leading to goals.

He missed 14 games due to injury.

(0 Team of the Matchday appearances.)

#22 – Jack Panayotou – Midseason Grade: C+| End of Season Grade: TBD

The U-19 MLS Next Cup Champion and 2022 Revolution Academy Player of the Year has had an interesting start to his 2024 season. With appearances in the MLS, MLS NEXT Pro & USL Championship across the New England Revolution, New England Revolution II, and Rhode Island FC, Panayotou has been all-over-the-place. I think he has contributed well overall, but there isn’t a true distinction yet for him. Rating of C+ would be solid if you combined all of his performances.

With the first team: 6.6 average match rating, 262 minutes played. 84% pass accuracy, 75% on successful dribbles, 12% on accurate crosses and 3 chances created. Defensively he was 50% on tackles won, 2 clearances along with 2 interceptions. 0 errors leading to goals.

With the second team: 7.8 average match rating, 341 minutes played with 3 goals and 1 assist. He had 4 shots on target with 82% pass accuracy, 67% on successful dribbles, 43% on accurate crosses and 9 chances created. Defensively he was 48% on tackles won, 2 clearances along with 2 interceptions. 0 errors leading to goals.

On loan with RHODE ISLAND FC: 7.1 average match rating, 317 minutes played with 0 goals and 2 assists. He had 1 shot on target with 80% pass accuracy, 60% on successful dribbles, 44% on successful crosses and 10 chances created. Defensively he was 34% on tackles won with 3 clearances and 4 interceptions with 0 errors leading to goals.

He missed 1 first team games due to illness.

(0 Team of the Matchday appearances.)

#24 – DeJuan Jones – Midseason Grade: B | End of Season Grade: TBD

DeJuan Jones has been a solid player this season. Definitely one of the stronger players in the backline. It is shocking to hear that Caleb Porter almost traded him along with Dave Romney for literally nothing prior to the end of the April transfer window. Thankfully, Jones got hurt, making him impossible to move. Overall, DeJuan has had a good season so far, just need results to fall his way. Overall, a B rating.

6.9 average match rating, 1,798 Minutes played, 0 goals with 3 assists. 3 shots on target with 83% pass accuracy, 31% on successful dribbles, 85% on tackles won, 22 clearances along with 6 interceptions. He had 0 errors leading to goals.

6 matches missed due to injury.

(0 Team of the Matchday appearances.)

#25 – Peyton Miller – Midseason Grade: A | End of Season Grade: TBD

Peyton Miller. That’s the bio. What a talent. A wingback that Caleb Porter stated was the number 2 option prior to a lower foot injury during preseason, fans have only seen glimpses of Miller. If you watched the New England Revolution II, you knew how talented he was. I would give Peyton an A rating for so far this season. Fans haven’t seen much of him yet but should be excited for his development with this squad.

7.3 average match rating, 98 Minutes played, 0 goals with 1 assist. 1 shot on target with 86% pass accuracy, 100% on successful dribbles, 100% on tackles won, 2 clearances along with 3 interceptions. He had 0 errors leading to goals.

11 matches missed due to injury.

(1 Team of the Matchday appearance.)

#26 – Tommy McNamara – Midseason Grade: D | End of Season Grade: TBD

Tommy Mac. A player I didn’t really expect to get any time this season after rehabbing another plethora of injuries. He missed 27 games due to injury in 2023 and missed 11 games in 2024 due to injury. He very recently has played in matches and has done subpar at best. Clearly a depth player in this roster that is getting minutes due to injury. D rating in my opinion.

With the first team: 6.1 average match rating, 298 Minutes played, 0 goal with 0 assists. 0 shots on target with 82% pass accuracy. 2 clearances along with 1 interception. He had 0 errors leading to goals.

He missed 11 games due to injury.

(0 Team of the Matchday appearances.)

#28 – Mark-Anthony Kaye – Midseason Grade: C+ | End of Season Grade: TBD

Mark-Anthony Kaye has done quite well providing defensive depth next to Matt Polster in controlling the defensive midfield on all cylinders. A player, who has done well in his time with New England with just a few miscues. In a stacked midfield, it’s clear that Kaye is facilitated in certain scenarios that others would not be used. He needs to be better on the ball and could be better moving off the ball. I believe he gets way too much hate for the role he plays. I’d give him a C+

6.7 average match rating, 1,308 Minutes played. 1 goal and 0 assists. 5 total shots on target with 87% pass accuracy, 70% on successful dribbles, and 13 chances created. Defensively he was 58% on tackles won, 7 clearances along with 3 interceptions. 2 errors leading to goals.

He missed 8 games due to injury.

(0 Team of the Matchday appearances.)

#29 – Noel Buck – Midseason Grade: B- | End of Season Grade: TBD

This 19-year-old has put himself on the map due to his 2023 season and start to the 2024 season. Buck has had a few performances that have been not-so-great, and he began majority of the season off the bench but has been providing the team with a spark. Overall, Buck is a B- rating, but can easily rise to an A rating if he continues to provide for the team and stays in the lineup.

7.0 average match rating, 739 Minutes played. 1 goal and 2 assists. 6 total shots on target with 89% pass accuracy, 33% on successful dribbles, and 8 chances created. Defensively he was 50% on tackles won, 1 clearance along with 1 interception. 0 errors leading to goals.

He missed 3 games due to injury.

(0 Team of the Matchday appearances.)

#31 – Aljaž Ivačič – Midseason Grade: B+ | End of Season Grade: TBD

So far, Aljaž Ivačič is the signing of the season. Though his stats may say otherwise, Ivačič has proven himself to be a stellar goalkeeper. I’m honestly shocked that we signed him for free.

6.59 average match rating, 1,260 minutes played. 29 goals conceded with 1 error leading to goals. He held a 1.5 Goals Against Average and 65.9% Save Percentage with 56 total saves. He has 2 clean sheets and holds 48.2% pass accuracy with a 32% long ball success rate.

He missed 0 games due to injury.

(2 Team of the Matchday appearances.)

#33 – Malcolm Fry – Midseason Grade: C+ | End of Season Grade: TBD

This 19-year-old has officially made his MLS debut. Overall, Fry-guy has been performing over the past seasons with the Revolution II and has finally gotten his chance to provide for the first team due to the injury list. I think Malcolm has done alright with his performance on the first team so far and has been spectacular for the 2nd team. A rating of C+ is solid for the young forward.

With the first team: 6.6 average match rating, 706 Minutes played, 0 goal with 0 assists. 1 shot on target with 1 chance created. He had 85% pass accuracy, 80% on successful dribbles.

With the second team: 6.6 average match rating, 806 Minutes played, 1 goal with 1 assist. 6 shot on target with 13 chances created. He had 77% pass accuracy, 60% on successful dribbles and 22% on accurate crosses. Defensively, he was 60% on tackles won, 5 clearances along with 2 interceptions. He had 0 errors leading to goals.

He missed 0 games due to injury.

(0 Team of the Matchday appearances.)

#34 – Ryan Spaulding – Midseason Grade: C- | End of Season Grade: TBD

Defender Ryan Spaulding knew he had an uphill battle going up against DeJuan Jones, Peyton Miller, Andrew Farrell and Nick Lima for playing time. Spaulding provided some minutes to start the season with 7 starts. His infamous performance was an early 14th minute red card versus Philadelphia that led to a 3-0 loss. Overall, Ryan has done okay. D+ rating

With the first team: 6.4 average match rating, 716 Minutes played, 0 goal with 0 assists. 1 shot on target with 5 chances created. He had 84% pass accuracy, 63% on successful dribbles. Defensively, he was 40% on tackles won, 7 clearances along with 7 interceptions. He had 2 errors leading to goals.

He missed 2 games due to injury.

(0 Team of the Matchday appearances.)

#36 – Earl Edwards Jr. – Midseason Grade: F | End of Season Grade: TBD

Absolutely a brutal showing for Edwards Jr. He stepped up for when Henrich Ravas went missing and had an absolute horror show. 10 goals conceded in 3 matches. Simply not good. Thoughts of him being a back-up were definitely palpable but not anymore.

5.14 average match rating, 270 minutes played. 10 goals conceded with 1 error leading to goals. He held a 3.33 Goals Against Average and 42.8% Save Percentage with 6 total saves. He has 0 clean sheets and holds a 74.8% pass accuracy with a 60.65% long ball success rate.

He missed 2 games due to injury.

(0 Team of the Matchday appearances.)

#39 – Marcos Dias – Midseason Grade: C+ | End of Season Grade: TBD

Marcos Dias was supposed to be a talent that excited Revolution fans. The all-time leading scorer in Revolution II history, Dias got his chance to represent the first team on 4 different occasions where he was called-up. Unfortunately, Caleb Porter only played him 3 minutes. He deserves better. For his second team contributions this season, Marcos gets an overall grade of C+. This grade is not his fault, the front office as well as the coach failed you.

With the first team: NO Match Rating, 3 Minutes played, 0 goal with 0 assists.

With the second team: 7.2 average match rating, 818 Minutes played, 5 goal with 4 assists. 17 shots on target with 16 chances created. He had 72% pass accuracy, 54% on successful dribbles and 40% on accurate crosses. Defensively, he was 80% on tackles won, 3 clearances along with 3 interceptions. He had 0 errors leading to goals.

He missed 0 games due to injury.

(0 Team of the Matchday appearances.)

#41 – Luca Langoni – Midseason Grade: Unrankable| End of Season Grade: TBD

Get excited Revolution fans. He’s coming.

First Team: ZERO GAMES PLAYED YET

(0 Team of the Matchday appearances.)

#43 – Tiago Suarez- Midseason Grade: C- | End of Season Grade: TBD

A player that essentially has been sent to Revolution II purgatory. Santiago Suarez has been a major contributor for the Revolution II’s backline. The 19-year-old, 6’5 center back has done well under Richie Williams but has a card accumulation issue. He has 2 red cards alone this season. Overall, a C- rating.

6.2 average match rating, 1,159 Minutes played. He has 1 goal and 0 assists. Had 88 % pass accuracy, 100% successful dribbles, 64% on tackles won, with 19 clearances along with 10 interceptions. He had 2 errors leading to goals.

He missed 0 games due to injury.

(0 Team of the Matchday appearances.)

#47 – Esmir Bajraktarević – Midseason Grade: A- | End of Season Grade: TBD

19-Year-Old Esmir Bajraktarević has been a great contributor this season. With more playing time due to the recovery of Dylan Borrero and injuries to Tomas Chancalay and Nacho Gil, Bajraktarević has taken advantage of his playing time. Bajraktarević has 3 goals and 4 assists in 9 matches. He attracted interest from the United States Men’s National Team for the Olympics, was snubbed, and is now rumored to filing his one-time switch to represent Bosnia & Herzegovina at the international level. Esmir deserves a A- rating. He would have had a higher rating if he passed more when he chose to shoot and if he shot more when he chose to pass. He’ll learn with experience. Excited to watch him grow.

7.10 average match rating, 1,806 Minutes played. 3 goals and 4 assists. 13 total shots on target with 82% pass accuracy, 44.3% on successful dribbles, 23% on accurate crosses, 20 chances created with 6 big chances missed. Defensively he has 44% tackles won and has 3 clearances and 7 interceptions with 0 errors leading to goals.

He missed 0 first team games due to injury.

(0 Team of the Matchday appearances.)

#72 – Damian Rivera – Midseason Grade: C | End of Season Grade: TBD

Homegrown player Damian Rivera has been a part of the struggling woes that fellow homegrown Justin Rennicks has faced. The player has been sent on loan to the Tampa Bay Rowdies for the remainder of the 2024 campaign. I highly doubt he will be in a Revolution jersey next season. Overall, Damian has been a C rating on loan for Tampa Bay.

With the first team: Zero Games Played

While on Loan: 6.40 average match rating, 521 minutes played. 3 goals and 0 assists with 6 shots on target with 1 big chance missed. He had 76.6% pass accuracy, 14% on accurate crosses, 48% on successful dribbles and 9 chances created.

He missed 0 first team games due to injury.

(0 Team of the Matchday appearances.)

#73- JD Gunn – Midseason Grade: B+ | End of Season Grade: TBD

JD Gunn is the starting goalkeeper for the New England Revolution II. He has been called-up to the first team twice on short-term deals due to injuries and illnesses. For the Revolution II, he has been spectacular! For the first team, he has yet to play. Gunn deserves a B rating for being that guy.

For the first team: ZERO GAMES PLAYED

For the second team: 6.36 average match rating, 1,080 minutes played. 25 goals conceded with 2 errors leading to goals. He held a 1.5 Goals Against Average and 64.8% Save Percentage with 46 total saves. He has 1 clean sheet and holds 71.2% pass accuracy with a 34% long ball success rate.

He missed 0 games due to injury.

(0 Team of the Matchday appearances.)

#88 – Andrew Farrell – Midseason Grade: C | End of Season Grade: TBD

12-Year veteran Andrew Farrell started 2024 in a very peculiar position. The team’s longstanding veteran started as the 3rd option off the bench for the center back position and then quickly shifted to 4th and at times the 5th option off the bench with the signings of Xavier Arreaga & Jonathan Mensah. When Farrell has appeared, he has played center back, right back, and central defensive midfielder. Overall, Andrew has done okay. I’d give him a C for his performance and willingness to adapt to the many positions that he has played this season.

6.5 average match rating, 918 Minutes played. 0 goals and 0 assists. 84% pass accuracy, 42% on successful dribbles, 73% on tackles won, 9 clearances along with 6 interceptions. He had 3 errors leading to goals.

He missed 0 games due to injury.

(0 Team of the Matchday appearances.)

#98 – Jacob Jackson – Midseason Grade: Unrankable | End of Season Grade: Unrankable

Jacob Jackson started the season with New England. He was released and claimed by the San Jose Earthquakes. Can’t really rank a player that didn’t play for the team this year.

First Team: Zero Games Played

Second Team: Zero Games Played

He missed 0 games due to injury.

(0 Team of the Matchday appearances.)

It’s also important to judge absolute turmoil of the results due to the issues midseason that involved the Revolution’s coaching staff.  Here is how I would grade each COACH on their impacts of the New England Revolution’s 2023 season.

Coaching Grades / Front Office Grades:

Head Coach Caleb Porter – C-

Head Coach Caleb Porter was signed to the New England Revolution in December of 2023. He is coach that is a proven winner that was given the task to replace MLS legend Bruce Arena. Overall, Porter received a line-up that he did not create. This is essentially a Bruce Arena roster that has been padded with a few new additions by sporting director Curt Onalfo. When fans put the blame on Porter, it confuses me. The players that he has brought in (Ivačič, Arreaga, Mensah) have been some of the better players this season. I don’t understand the criticisms towards him. I think fans should shift their focuses to the people responsible for the mess he was left with and allow Porter the time to construct and alter this roster. Give the coach trust and watch what unfolds. Overall, I’ll give Porter a C- with what has happened thus far this season. (3) different 4 goal defeats is unacceptable. With a LENGTHY injury report and zero non-MLS signing so far this season, I want to see improvements.

(1 Team of the Matchday appearances.)

Sporting Director Curt Onalfo – F

Where do I even begin with Curt Onalfo. I extremely dislike this signing. Onalfo, who spent the last four-plus seasons as New England’s technical director was elevated to sporting director. For an organization that wanted to rid themselves of the Bruce Arena era, it was a great start to promote one of his guys. With Onalfo in-charge of player personnel, scouting and player development, it is imperative that Onalfo does a good job. News flash, he has not. His major accomplishment was signing Tomás Chancalay to a designated player deal. He has struck out on two different occasions by signing Tomáš Vaclík and Henrich Ravas. He has been linked to 7 players this season and has yet to sign a single player (Cano, Pereyra, Elis, Baba, Mohamed, Peretz, Turgeman) Overall, he has been extremely disappointing and has been negative as well.

He said it best. “It’s time to get out there and play and stop talking about all the baloney. It’s noise. We’re going to focus on winning.”

Respectfully, go focus on winning and improve this roster or you’ll lose the job that you shouldn’t have gotten in the first place.

President Brian Bilello – B-

Though it is difficult to grade Brian Bilello a B- overall, I believe that he has had quite the year compared to years in the past. The current Revolution president who has been in position since 2006 spent majority of the offseason and current season pushing for a Soccer Specific Stadium to be built in Everett, Massachusetts. With success around the corner, Bilello has succeeded at one of the most important goals all season. While doing so, he has assisted off the field by increasing the attendance and foot-traffic inside of Gillette Stadium and has helped grow interest in the club off the field.

He did well by appointing Caleb Porter, however, I disagree with the appointment of Curt Onalfo. Overall, a B- for Bilello isn’t the best or worst thing in the world.

Owner Robert Kraft – C

Another person that is extremely difficult to grade. Robert Kraft and his staff have quietly worked behind the scenes to bring a Soccer Specific Stadium to Boston for New England. However, Kraft hasn’t really opened the bank and allowed Caleb Porter the ability to spend money on big-name players. With a soccer-stadium in the near future, this could turn New England into a top-5 market in Major League Soccer, at least that’s what Taylor Twellman is saying. I think Kraft has done okay with his involvement within the club, just his work goes beyond the eyes of fans that don’t pay close attention. Robert has been at 2 games this season, with Jonathan going to ALMOST every single home game. Robert can get a C just for the stadium alone.

New England Revolution Midseason Team Grade: B / B+ (June 17, 2023)

This team has been extremely poor this season in all competitions. With Leagues Cup expected to be a throw-away tournament for the team, the goal is for players to get healthy prior to MLS starting back up again. Thankfully, the playoffs aren’t until the end of the season. Currently, they sit as the 2nd worst team in the league, however, they remain 6 points out of a play-in game playoff spot and are 11 points out of a solidified playoff spot with 2 games in-hand. It is more valuable to lose games in May/June rather than September/October. This team is a can be a playoff team, and definitely can be a contender IF they get healthy, remain healthy, and make some signings. In regard to the team grade, they deserve a D / C-. The squad would have had a C+ or even a B- rating if they had not been obliterated in the Leagues Cup, gone on 3 different 3-game losing skids, and didn’t sit in last place in their respective conference.

New England Revolution End of season Team Grade: To Be Determined

Offseason thoughts: To Be Determined

Caleb Porter and the New England Revolution (7-2-14, 23 pts.) remain home to face Liga MX side Mazatlán F.C. (0-1-1, 1 pt. in Liga MX) in a Leagues Cup Match. The match will kick off at Gillette Stadium at 7:30 p.m. EST on Saturday, July 27th. For more MLS content, you can find it on MLS Season Pass on the Apple TV app.

(Editor’s Note: For more of Burt Granofsky’s photos, click on the link)