FC Dallas Update: Denilson, Gbandi Out

FC Dallas' first Designated Player experiment has officially come to an end as four-time Brazilian champion Palmeiras has inked the World Cup veteran to an agreement that will last through the end of the year.
Denilson, 30, had a much-less-than-desired effect in his time at Pizza Hut Park, scoring a single goal (on a penalty kick) in eight appearances for the Hoops. Signed in August of 2007, many were skeptical of whether the midfielder would be willing to put in the work required to be successful, assuming he was just here to collect a big payday.

In two short months, Denilson had worked himself out of the FCD lineup. When the season ended, Dallas announced that they would be declining the option on Denilson's 2008 contract, leaving open the door for the Brazilian to re-sign for much less than DP-money. Apparently that wasn't an option, as Denilson's MLS career has officially come to a close already.

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FC Dallas also announced this week that defender Chris Gbandi has formally transferred to FK Haugesund of the Norwegian Second Division. Rumors put the transfer fee for the 29-year-old Gbandi in the $100,000 range.
"We're proud that Chris was able to develop as a professional here in Dallas," said GM Michael Hitchock. "We want to thank him for his service to our club, both on and off the field, and wish him all the best in Norway."

Gbandi was selected by the club as the first overall selection in 2002 MLS SuperDraft after a successful collegiate career at the University of Connecticut. He went on to make 117 appearances for Dallas, scoring three goals and adding ten assists.

In 2004, he accepted an offer from the Liberian national team to compete in the 2006 World Cup Qualifiers, ending speculation that he might cap for the USMNT. However, he has yet to make a second appearance for the Lone Stars.