What Is 2020 New England Revolution season

Overview

The 2020 New England Revolution season was a pivotal year in the club’s history, marking their 25th campaign in Major League Soccer since the league’s inception in 1996. Under new head coach Bruce Arena, the team showed significant improvement over previous seasons, finishing with a winning record and returning to the playoffs after a six-year absence.

This season was shortened due to the COVID-19 pandemic, with teams playing a reduced 23-match schedule instead of the usual full slate. Despite disruptions, including the MLS is Back Tournament in July, the Revolution maintained consistency at home and demonstrated offensive growth led by key signings.

• Gustavo Bou led the team with 10 goals, becoming the first Revolution player since 2014 to reach double-digit scoring in a single season.
• The team finished 5th in the Eastern Conference with a record of 10 wins, 6 losses, and 5 draws, accumulating 35 points.
• Bruce Arena was named head coach in January 2020, returning to MLS after previous success with D.C. United and LA Galaxy.
• The Revolution played their home games at Gillette Stadium in Foxborough, Massachusetts, though attendance was limited due to pandemic restrictions.
• They advanced to the MLS Cup Playoffs for the first time since 2014 but were eliminated by the Philadelphia Union 2–1 in the first round.

Key Players and Contributions

The 2020 campaign saw standout performances from both new signings and returning players, with offensive production improving significantly under Arena’s leadership. The Revolution’s attacking trio of Bou, Carles Gil, and Tajon Buchanan became central to their success.

• Carles Gil recorded 7 assists and was named to the 2020 MLS Best XI, becoming the first Revolution player to receive the honor since 2005.
• Tajon Buchanan, a rookie from Syracuse University, contributed 3 goals and 3 assists and quickly established himself as a key winger.
• Adam Buksa added 7 goals, forming a potent strike partnership with Bou and giving the Revs their most dangerous forward duo in years.
• Goalkeeper Brad Knighton filled in during Matt Turner’s absence and posted 3 clean sheets in 8 appearances.
• Defender Andrew Farrell played in 18 matches, providing veteran leadership in his 9th season with the club.

Comparison at a Glance

Here’s how the 2020 season compared to the previous two years in key performance metrics:

The data shows a clear upward trajectory in 2020, despite a similar point total to 2018. The team’s improved defensive organization and attacking firepower under Bruce Arena translated into a playoff berth. While goals scored were lower than 2018, efficiency improved with fewer shots on target needed per goal. The return of consistent coaching and player development marked a turning point for the franchise.

Why It Matters

The 2020 season represented a turning point for the New England Revolution, signaling a return to competitiveness after years of underperformance. The club’s investment in talent and leadership paid off with tangible on-field results and renewed fan engagement.

• The hiring of Bruce Arena brought immediate credibility and tactical discipline, setting a new standard for the organization.
• Carles Gil’s Best XI selection highlighted the team’s ability to attract and develop elite MLS talent.
• The emergence of Tajon Buchanan as a young star opened doors for future U.S. Men’s National Team opportunities.
• Reaching the playoffs ended a six-year drought, restoring hope among the fanbase and boosting season ticket sales.
• Improved attendance trends and merchandise sales followed, indicating stronger brand momentum.
• The season laid the foundation for future success, including the club’s record-breaking 2021 campaign.

Overall, the 2020 season was a cornerstone in the Revolution’s modern era, proving that strategic leadership and player investment could yield competitive results even in a disrupted year.