As many FC Dallas fans might know, this offseason has been marked by a lot of changes. Both in the defense and across the entire roster.

The offseason has been a whirlwind for new FC Dallas defender Reto Ziegler. He went from playing professionally in Switzerland at the end of 2017, to being apart of a newly rebuild defense in Dallas.

“It was a big change for me,” said Ziegler. “But I am really happy that I made this choice. It is a great team, we look good so far. I think we have quality players and good mentality. I think with this team we can have a great season and hopefully I can help the team with my experience and quality.”

Ziegler spent the last three seasons in the Swiss top division with Sion and most recently with FC Luzern. Like many newcomers to MLS, he had to be sold on coming over to the league. Thankfully for FCD fans, the style of play that Oscar Pareja employs matched up with what he was looking for in a new club.

“Yeah, they (Fernando Clavijo and staff) came to see me play in Luzern with FC Luzern, where I played the last three months,” explained Ziegler. “They convinced me it was a good move to make. They explained the way they play football and it is exactly the same way I see the football. It is really technical and physical. You have to win a lot of second balls and stuff like this. I feel comfortable in this team, that is why I am here.”

As the preseason continues, FC Dallas has several friendlies coming up to help prepare for the CONCACAF Champions League and the 2018 regular season. Ziegler is eager to get on the field with his new defensive partner in 2016 MLS Defender of the Year, Matt Hedges.

“It is now three days that we’ve played together on the field tactically,” Ziegler at Friday’s jersey reveal event. “I have a great feeling with him and I think we will do a great job together because he will always cover me and I will cover him. Not only with him but with the whole defense. We are working hard not to give up as many goals this season.”

Ziegler didn’t travel with the club over the weekend to the team’s friendly against Chattanooga FC but he is expected to see playing time this Wednesday when the club hosts Salvadoran side Santa Tecla FC.