D.C. United Selects Nikola Markovic as No. 1 Overall Pick in 2026 MLS SuperDraft

D.C. United Selects Nikola Markovic as No. 1 Overall Pick in 2026 MLS SuperDraft

D.C. United has made their selection for the No. 1 overall pick in the 2026 MLS SuperDraft, choosing center back Nikola Markovic from North Carolina State University. Markovic, a member of the 2026 Generation adidas class, joins D.C. United after a successful season with NC State, where he helped the team reach their first NCAA national championship game in 2025. The sophomore defender played a key role in the Wolfpack's impressive defensive record, starting all 22 games and contributing to 15 shutouts while earning First Team All-American honors for his performance.

Originally from Canada, Markovic has a background in CF Montréal's academy before making the move to NC State. His arrival at D.C. United comes at a crucial time for the team, as they look to rebuild after finishing at the bottom of the table in the 2025 season and conceding a high number of goals. Markovic becomes the fourth player in D.C. United's history to be selected as the No. 1 pick in the MLS SuperDraft, following in the footsteps of Jason Moore, Alecko Eskandarian, and Freddy Adu.

Markovic's addition to the team brings a promising defensive talent to D.C. United as they aim to strengthen their squad and improve their performance in the upcoming season. With his experience and accolades from his time at NC State, Markovic has the potential to make a significant impact on the team's defensive line and contribute to their success on the field.