The first training session for FC Dallas in 2025 is in the books. Players reported to Frisco over the weekend for their annual physicals and medical exams before taking the pitch on Monday for the first time ahead of the new season.

Eric Quill begins his journey as the club’s new manager in 2025. He hopes that the first day can help set the right tone for the preseason and help prepare the club for their first game in late February against Texas Derby rivals Houston Dynamo.

“It’s just amazing to get on the grass,” said Quill. “It is what we are all obsessed with, the training field. Day one excitement, nerves from young guys, all the things you’d expect. The intensity, the work, it was all there. So, a good day one. I’m looking forward to a good day two, day three and to see who we are going to be at the end of the week.”

Quill has seen his roster change a lot in recent weeks, the club had two big trades with conference rivals Seattle, including one on Monday before the start of training. While the changes have been fast paced, he hopes that the team can rally together during this time to get ready for the new season.

“Change is inevitable, it is in every roster around the league and in every professional sports,” explained Quill. “You have to embrace it, as it can be scary. You gotta believe in each other and how fast we can come together. You have to respect each other, push each other because it’s five weeks until game one. We have to work fast and be smart.”

Who’s here and who isn’t

According to FC Dallas’ Garrett Melcer, there were a few faces that missed out on training Monday morning. Most of the players missing players were absent due to travel issues or national team camps, while one player was notably on the list is working on a transfer in Argentina.

There were also a pair of injured players missing from the start of training, as both Geovane Jesus and Paxton Pomykal were out. Pomykal was said to be seen training on the side with early indications that he is still working to get back to full health. There isn’t an official word yet as to when Pomykal will be available.

There isn’t an official word on how the club is preparing to handle Jesus’ recovery in 2025, but sources tell Big D Soccer the team is prepared to place him on the season ending injury list for this season. That would help open up a few things for the club including an international roster slot and a U22 slot.

Once we have confirmation on that from the club, we will pass that along to you all.