WASHINGTON (December 7, 2015) – D.C. United have announced the year-end roster moves for the 2016 season, exercising the options of the team’s Designated Player Fabián EspÃndola, defenders Sean Franklin and Steven Birnbaum and seven others.
EspÃndola, 30, led the team in assists (7) while playing in limited games in 2015 due to injury and suspension. The Argentine attacker has proven to be a dangerous goal threat as well as playmaker in his two years in Washington, scoring 16 goals and adding 16 assists.
Birnbaum, a Rookie of the Year finalist in 2014, started 21 matches in each of his first two MLS seasons, and developed a strong centerback partnership with both Bobby Boswell and Kofi Opare.
Franklin, an eight-year MLS veteran, provided stability at right full back, playing at least 2,000 minutes each of his last two seasons.
United also exercised the 2016 options of Taylor Kemp, Chris Korb, Conor Doyle, Luke Mishu, Travis Worra, Miguel Aguilar and Jared Jeffrey.
The 2016 options of Jairo Arrieta and Michael Farfan were declined, and both players are eligible for the Re-Entry Draft. Argentine Facundo Coria was waived.
Andrew Dykstra and Perry Kitchen are both of out of contract. The club is currently in contract negotiations with both players.
