Paid Their Dues: Marfan joins DC United

DC United announced the signing of Michael Farfan on Tuesday, as MLS's allocation mechanism sent the returning player to the nation's capital.

"We believe that Michael has yet to reach his full potential as a professional, and we look forward to working with him and having him join the D.C. United family," said DCU GM Dave Kasper. This is a solid signing for United, who will be competing in the CONCACAF Champions League this year.

Farfan was a frustratingly average player in Philadelphia. Everyone knew that he had magic in him, it's just that it didn't come out all too often. He'll provide good depth in midfield, as he's adept at playing both wide and central midfield. However, Farfan is a guy with immense dribbling and passing ability, and it is very possible that he truly breaks out while with the Union's I-95 rivals.

Going north up the corridor, Alecko Eskandarian was given a new role yesterday. The New York Cosmos have handed the reigns of their NPSL team to the former Union youth coach. Eskandarian will still serve as the assistant coach with the main squad.