Charlie Davies’ return to soccer after his tragic car accident in October 2009 started in fairy-tale fashion with two goals in D.C. United’s first game of the season. But it hasn’t gone as well of late, with the 25-year-old forward limited to reduced minutes off the bench. Despite his 11 goals, D.C. United faces a tough choice in deciding whether or not to try and keep him around next season. With Davies’ one-year loan from French club Sochaux FC set to expire, here’s how United’s options shake out:
1. D.C. can buy out Davies’ contract with Sochaux (where he’s signed until summer 2013) — he’s earning a guaranteed salary of $244,870 ($184,620 base) this season with MLS, according to MLS players union figures — and retain him as a player.
2. United, Sochaux and Charlie Davies don’t come to terms, and Davies returns to Sochaux. According to MLS, D.C. United would retain the right of first refusal for Davies if he should return to MLS in the future.
3. United can execute another loan with Sochaux. This option could prevent D.C. from having to shell out more dollars than they want to in the short term and prevent Sochaux from having to take back Davies if they’re not ready — and his form says he’s not ready for a return to Ligue 1. If all parties believe Davies is getting better, and his situation in D.C. this season has been a positive one, it could be easiest to enter into another loan agreement.
– Craig Stouffer
