Houston Dynamo recently signed Felipe Andrade of Brazil to a permanent agreement after bringing him in on loan from Fluminense. The 23-year-old has already shown signs of being an impact player with three goals and one assist in 19 MLS matches, including 15 starts. Now, a permanent transfer is a sign that the club is focusing on improving its back line at a critical point in the season.
Boosting Playoff Hopes
Andrade’s future in the Dynamo might be quite lengthy, and the move could be the perfect push needed to guide these workers to climb the Western Conference standings. Right now, they are two points out of the playoff cut with a record of 8-13-9. Also, they’re given +350 odds to finish in the top seven of the Western Conference by various oddsmakers, like sportsbooks for Texan players, where they can find detailed stats and timely predictions, as well as competitive odds and fast payouts.
In a team that is fighting for those last few points that will help Houston make the transition beyond the regular season, having a defender of his caliber makes the defense deeper and stronger, something that is always desirable.
A Proven Winner
With his impressive ability to help lead Fluminense to the 2023 Copa Libertadores, Andrade comes with the confidence and experience that any team would value. High-pressure experience is a plus for a club struggling to make a comeback in the contention to reach the playoffs.
Plus, the players previously lifted major trophies, which brings a composure and leadership that is needed for Houston as the campaign ends. His ability to score from the back, evidenced by his three goals this season, is also an unexpected source of added value in tight games where set pieces can swing the result.
Aligning With the Dynamo System
One of the concerns of Houston to move quickly to make the move permanent is Andrade’s versatility. He has seamlessly slipped into various defensive roles while being adaptable to whatever the Dynamo requires tactically week in and week out.
Whether paired with an experienced center back or pushed out wider due to injuries, he has shown his ability to adapt to different assignments. The flexibility of this system also makes it easy for the coaching staff to change formations without worrying about the quality of Andrade’s performance.
Building for the Future
While the sign-off could be for a short-term goal of making the playoffs, it also indicates a longer-term strategy for Houston. At 23, Andrade fits the profile of a player who can make advancements while making an impact from the start.
The Dynamo can build a foundation that will improve their odds on the moneyline for the next few seasons by signing a long-term contract, which will provide stability and security for several seasons. With many promising youngsters already in the squad, the addition of a defender of his quality means the club has a strong competitive core for the foreseeable future.
Impact on Team Morale
Grabbing a main talent mid-season can have a positive impact on the locker room overall. Teammates witness the front office’s dedication to winning and experience the lifting effect of stability presented by sustaining a star-level performer. Andrade himself said that knowing he is not going to be around much longer might make him play any more confidently, benefiting everyone around him.
What It Means for Supporters
For Dynamo fans, the permanent signing has provided peace of mind that the club is taking intent seriously and is interested in making a comeback to the postseason. Houston’s exercising the purchase option is not an isolated incident and illustrates a clear understanding of these direct and indirect benefits.
As the Dynamo struggle to rise on the league table and work towards a playoff position, the permanency of Felipe Andrade provides them with a player who can make a difference in the short term and become a cornerstone of the defense for the long term.
