Ghanaian defender Lalas Abubakar has officially begun pre-season training with his new club, FC Dallas, as preparations for the 2025 Major League Soccer (MLS) season get underway.

The 29-year-old joined FC Dallas as a free agent in December after departing Colorado Rapids, where he spent four successful seasons. Abubakar returned to the U.S. after a short holiday in Ghana to link up with his new teammates for the intensive drills marking the start of pre-season in Dallas.

Having spent his entire senior career in the MLS, Abubakar brings a wealth of experience to FC Dallas. He previously played for Columbus Crew before making 153 appearances for Colorado Rapids, where he contributed nine goals and helped the team reach the playoffs last season.

FC Dallas Sporting Director Andre Zanotta expressed excitement about the signing, emphasizing Abubakar’s quality and leadership. “We’re very happy to sign Lalas to our roster. Strengthening our defensive group this offseason was a priority. Lalas provides us with a great player, competitor, and flexibility along our backline. We look forward to his impact as we prepare for the new season.”

The former Rapids Defensive Player of the Year (2019, 2020) is set to add steel and depth to FC Dallas’ backline. Although Abubakar has not yet represented Ghana at the international level, he acquired U.S. citizenship last year, further cementing his ties to the league he has called home.

As FC Dallas gear up for a competitive season, Abubakar’s arrival signals a strong intent to fortify their defensive unit and push for MLS success.