Emiliano Dudar Q&A

Just days after joining preseason camp in Sarasota, EmilianoDudar is already impressed with the commitment of D.C. United’s players andstaff. As the team prepares for Sunday’s scrimmage versus the Chicago Fire, the newest member of theBlack-and-Red spoke about his first experiences with the team, why he came toMLS and how he recovered from an injury that threatened to end his career.

The following is an English translation of an interview conducted in Spanish:
How are you settling in with the team? What are your first impressions of the staff and players?

Everyone has treated me very well since the first moment.Changes are always hard, especially getting to know new teammates, new coachingstaff and new management. They have all been extremely supportive and have mademe feel comfortable, which is very important for me. That is why I’m trying togive it my best in every training session so I can get physically fit and be atthe coach’s disposal.

Have you been surprised by anything in particular?

I noticed there is a high level of professionalism in everyarea, from the team equipment to the attention towards players. Sincerely, Iwas surprised because there is a general notion [outside the U.S.] that U.S.soccer is not that competitive or that they are not well prepared here, butthis first few days have made me realize how mistaken people are. There is agreat attention to detail and caring for the players, which is not easy to findin other countries.

What players have caught your eye during practice? Who stands out?

I think the center back [Dejan Jakovic] is a very interestingplayer. I also like the little kid who plays as right midfielder [Andy Najar]. Iam simply highlighting two guys that stand out for me, but I am sincerely impressedwith the level of all the players. They all have good rhythm and vision. Ididn’t think there was such quality in the U.S. United has a rich squad,technically and physically. And from what I’ve seen, the coach [Ben Olsen] is someonewho knows what he wants and is very important for the group.

What made you decide to play in MLS?

I have always liked the idea of coming to the U.S. Soccer isgrowing more and more each day and there is a good quality of life here. When Iwas told about the possibility to play in MLS, I didn’t think twice. I knowUnited is a great club, and I have been researching about the club since Ifirst found out there was an interest in me. I am very happy to be here; it is definitely a step forward in my career.

How would you describe yourself as a player? What can the fans expect from you on the field?

I always try to give everything I have during the game.Besides trying to do things right, I always try my best. I have good game vision and I’m always trying to help and guide my teammates, since I play in aposition where I can see the field better. I’ve noticed that there are manyyoung players here, so I think I can helpthe group in that aspect as well.

How are you feeling physically this week?

I had some setbacks in Buenos Aires because my son was sick,which is why I spent some days without training. I had been training beforethat, I always work out to stay in shape during vacations. These first few daysit’s always tough to get back into rhythm. But I know I will be much better ina week and soon I will be available for whatever the coach needs.

You suffered a concussion back in 2010. Did anything change in your game after the injury?

Before the accident I was playing at a high level inSwitzerland and I was named the best defender in the League. Then, I spent onemonth recovering from an ankle injury, and when I came back against FC Basel Isuffered that accident and it circled the media. At first, I saw it assomething tragic and I was very upset, but then I realized how lucky I was,because not everyone is able to recover from the type of accident I had. Ispent one month in the hospital around September, and I was back at training bythe end of November, although I couldn’t head the ball because I needed fullmedical clearance.

At first I had some fear, I thought the accident couldhappen at any time. But the doctors told me I couldn’t spend all day thinkingabout it and that the fear would leave once I started playing. And that’sexactly what happened. My first semester back was tough, because those fearsdon’t go away overnight. But by the last couple of months I already felt asconfident as I did before the injury. The fear disappeared, but I always thinkabout what happened. I am grateful to be back on the field and be able to dowhat I love. United saw quality in me, so I hope to give back that confidenceand support with a high level of play.

Where do you see yourself at the end of the year? What are your goals with D.C. United this season?

My goals are always the highest ones. The first objective isto qualify for the MLS Cup Playoffs, and then we have to set our minds forbigger goals. You always need to have a winning mentality and try to overcomeany obstacle. I don’t know how the other teams are doing right now, but I’veseen some great players here [at D.C. United] and I think we will be a toughopponent for everyone.