Detroit City FC is one of two new arrivals in the USL Championship for the 2022 season, but the club’s past decade since its founding in 2012 in the amateur and professional ranks provides a history that is unique in the North American soccer landscape. As it makes the step up to the second tier, Le Rouge also brings with it one of the most passionate supporters’ groups in the country, which will make Keyworth Stadium a major stage for their new rivals to visit in the coming year.

On the field, DCFC has achieved much success under Head Coach Trevor James during its time in the National Independent Soccer Association. The side won each of the past three regular season titles, the Legends Cup, the NISA Championship, and other honors. The core group of players that delivered that success will now get the chance to compete in the Championship with captain Stephen Carroll and most recent Black Arrow award winner Connor Rutz among those who will compete in the league for the first time.

There is Championship experience in Detroit’s squad as well, though, with veteran forward Antoine Hoppenot and former Atlanta United 2 midfielder Abdoulaye Diop – a former DCFC player in the club’s amateur days – among the new arrivals for 2022. After Oakland Roots SC’s success last year making a similar move, DCFC will enter hopeful it can be a playoff contender this season. Whatever happens, though, the new arrivals will certainly make their presence known.

Antoine Hoppenot – Veteran Championship forward brings experience to league’s newcomers

Abdoulaye Diop – Former DCFC midfielder returns after stint with Atlanta United 2

Deklan Wynne – New Zealand full back spent much of 2021 season at OKC Energy FC

Billy Forbes – Turks and Caicos international has notched 30 goals, 18 assists in Championship over career

Darwin Espinal – Honduran winger made move to Maryland Bobcats

Jimmy Filerman – Defender signed with USL League One’s Greenville Triumph SC