How Alex Bono could be the game-changer New England Revolution desperately needs | OneFootball

The New England Revolution has signed goalkeeper Alex Bono, formerly of D.C. United, as a free agent, and this is likely to be a game-changer for the team. At 30 years old, Bono comes with the charge of solidifying the Revolution's defense, one of the major areas where the team did not do so well last season.

The experience Bono brings

Alex Bono carries a lot of experience that speaks volumes. With more than 160 MLS appearances and 33 clean sheets to his name, the shot-stopper carries invaluable experience and is, therefore, an important unit in the Revolution's rear guard. Bono's MLS career started in 2015 when he was drafted by Toronto FC as the 6th overall pick in the SuperDraft. Entering the league, expectations were indeed high for the then-youngster, and he did live up to the billing.

In 2017, Bono was part of Toronto's historic treble-winning team that lifted the MLS Cup, Canadian Championship, and Supporters' Shield. That moment fixed him as one of the best goalkeepers in the league. This experience will be an important asset for New England, currently searching for a high-level goalkeeper to bring more stability and confidence to their defense.

Moreover, Bono also has the pedigree of being the starting goalkeeper for one of the most successful teams in MLS history, something that will undoubtedly serve as a model for the younger players at New England. As Curt Onalfo, the Revolution's Sporting Director, put it: “We’re excited to add another experienced MLS goalkeeper to our team. Alex Bono brings a wealth of experience as a starter in our league.”

The Revolution's challenge

In 2024, the New England Revolution finished in 14th place in the Eastern Conference, with just 31 points, failing to qualify for the MLS playoffs. The season had ups and downs, but one of the main criticisms was the defense. While goalkeeper Aljaz Ivacic  showed promise since his arrival from Portland Timbers, a lack of consistency in the defense prevented the team from achieving better results.

Bono's arrival is going to be one of those necessary steps in correcting this gap. With his experience and number of clean sheets, Bono is a goalkeeper with a winning mentality. His arrival promises more solidity to the defense, helping to stabilize the team and giving the Revolution a new direction.

Bono's immediate impact on the squad

Bono's presence can be felt on multiple levels in terms of the impact he will have on the Revolution. As the starting goalkeeper, he will bring that security that only experience can provide. With a challenging season ahead, where the team needs to bounce back and reposition itself in the league, Bono's high-level experience will be crucial to the team's success.

But what does Bono bring to the other players? Bono comes in with champion and starter status on a winning team. In all teams, such as in Toronto FC in 2017, Bono had to deal with the pressure of being literally the last man in defense-a key feature that will be significant in the Revolution. Not just making those phenomenal saves from time to time, there is a leadership aspect where he needs to organize them, especially the young team.