Pat Noonan | Prematch Press Conference | 10/20/26

FC Cincinnati Head Coach Pat Noonan meets with the media ahead of the Orange and Blue’s away rematch against D.C. United in Major League Soccer play. Noonan discusses preparing for a second meeting with D.C. in a matter of days while managing the squad through a congested stretch of the schedule. FC Cincinnati match recap

Noonan breaks down FC Cincinnati’s approach to the matchup, including reviewing the previous meeting, matching D.C. United’s physicality and quick attacking play, winning duels and making better decisions in key moments. He also addresses staying composed and adjusting the defensive shape between a back three and back four when needed.

The conversation also covers squad management with injuries affecting the back line, limited options for rotation and the importance of substitutions as fatigue becomes a factor. Noonan discusses using FC Cincinnati 2 and academy players in training to create larger-space work for players outside the regular starting group, as well as the uncertainty surrounding Tyrell’s ankle issue and Ender’s potential availability pending final checks.

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