For the first time since 2017, Chicago Fire FC made it back to the MLS Cup Playoffs.

This club has made an impactful amount of improvement in comparison to the 2024 season that saw them finish last place in the MLS Eastern Conference.

This season, the squad snuck into the MLS Cup Playoffs as the #8 seed where they were victorious in the wildcard round & then fell in the first round best-of-three series after 2 matches versus Philadelphia Union.

Taking a glance at the overall season, Charlotte went 6-5-6 at home & 9-6-2 on the road. They scored 28 more goals and allowed 2 goals less in comparison to their 2024 campaign.

With their roster decisions published, Chicago will have some roster flexibility & will look to make improvements to an already talented roster.

In the offseason guide:

The Positives

Chicago Fire FC’s offensive output this season was absolutely unbelievable. Phillip Zinckernagel led the way with 30 goal contributions (15 goals & 15 assists) with forward Hugo Cuypers coming in right behind him with 20 goal contributions (17 goals & 3 assists). Designated Player Jonathan Bamba made a solid output on the year with 15 goal contributions (5 goals & 10 assists) while U22 initiative midfielder Brian Gutierrez matched Bamba with 15 goal contributions as well (9 goals & 6 assists).

Chicago had FIFTEEN different goalscorers this season. Just an overall massive improvement altogether.

This team was very successful on the road this season. Their road success was a vital reason why they made the playoffs this season. With improvement at home, they could be a top contender entering the 2026 season.

The Negatives

This squad struggled to win close games this season. They went 6W-LD-6D at home  and it ultimately led to the squad finishing in 8th place in the MLS Eastern Conference. If they were as strong as they were on the road, they’d easily be in a potential top-5 conversation in the East.

Facing the Supporters’ Shield winners in the first round of the playoffs didn’t help them either. It’s unfortunate as I had Chicago winning the MLS Cup this season. If they were stronger on the road, this team wouldn’t have been dealt this hand.

Chicago is another MLS team that ultimately fell in the Quarterfinals of the 2025 Lamar Hunt U.S. Open Cup, where they fell 3-1 to Minnesota United.

Roster Flexibility

Chicago Fire FC doesn’t have much roster flexibility. At the moment, the club has two designated players (Jonathan Bamba & Hugo Cuypers) and FIVE U-22 initiative signings (Leonardo Barroso, Dje D’Avilla, Brian Gutierrez, Georgios Koutsias, & Viktor Raojevic).

This club is currently in the 2DP and 4 U-22s model. In regard to GAM totals, the club has $11,689 of GAM (as of Sept. 18, 2025).

The club announced their end-of-season roster update, where they announced most contract option decisions. 

The club is entering the 2026 season with 24 players rostered as of November 25th.

Offseason Priorities

Determine whether or not Georgios Koutsias is returning to the club or making his transfer permanent to FC Lugano & determine whether the club will stick in the 2DP, 4U22 route or transition into the 3DP, 3U22 model.

Brian Gutierrez is heavily sought after by CF Monterrey & Club America. Might be time to make a decision on the young midfielders future.

Look to acquire a depth midfielder, depth forward, and potentially a stronger outside back option this offseason.