The New England Revolution are building chemistry after remaking the centerback position during the off-season.

Mamadou Fofana, Brayan Ceballos, Wyatt Omsberg, and Tanner Beason are about to embark on their first seasons with the Revs. The first two are new to the league, while the second two have extensive experience.

“It will take some time to gel and gain that chemistry, but I think you’ve seen even with new pieces, if there’s an understanding of how we’re going to play and that’s very clear, then it’s easier for them to execute and to do what they need to,” Porter said.

Early results have been positive. The Revs collected two preseason shutouts, defeating Austin FC and St. Louis CITY SC by 1-0 scorelines.

Fofana, who is expected to be a starter, didn't play in either game because he just arrived at camp. The Malian international will now look to acclimate to the team, which faces the Houston Dynamo on Monday.

“Mamadou has just been here for a couple days, he trained over the break, and now we’re able to really integrate him into the trainings, the tactical sessions, and into the game,” Porter said. “He’s probably only ready for 30 minutes in this next game.”

Fofana is eager to begin, saying, “The first week was perfect.”

The former Amiens SC defender stated he’s been on the radar of Revolution personnel for some time, saying, “The sporting director [Curt Onalfo], I have known him for many years because he followed me when I was at [FC] Metz.”

Fofana also stated that technical director Remi Roy helped bring him to New England.

“I know [Onalfo] and Remi Roy also, because he is from Canada, so we speak French,” Fofana said. “They followed me for a few years. Now, I know we have an opportunity and they called me. I said, ‘Why not?” I know it’s a big challenge for me. I have to work to help the team to have a great season.”

Ceballos, who is slated to partner with Fofana, has played in the first two preseason games. The 23-year-old arrived after spending time in the Ukrainian league.

“In Ukraine, it was difficult at first because I had to adapt to a city and a country that aren’t in the best conditions,” Ceballos said via a translator. “But I did learn a lot, thanks to God. I adapted well to the games and everything well.

“I didn’t have to think too much about coming here to New England and the United States, given the circumstances [owe were under with the war. I didn’t have to think too much about coming here. Who wouldn’t want to come live in the United States and play a different style of soccer? I can live peacefully here with my family. That’s what attracted me and why I made the decision.”

Fofana and Ceballos are just starting to get to know each other. The hope is that the chemistry will build in the weeks to come.

“We didn’t understand each other [at first], because he doesn’t speak English, but you know in football, when we play, we don’t have to speak too much,” Fofana said. “If I do my job, he can follow me. If he does his job, I can follow him. “

While the Revs do have four new center back options, there is some consistency regarding the backline. Porter noted that Aljaz Ivacic, Brandon Bye, Will Sands, and Peyton Miller are returning.

With approximately three weeks until the season opener, it’s all about getting everyone on the same page.

“It’s more just getting them connected with each other and developing that feeling and that pride,” Porter said. “That pride that we’re going to be a team that’s tough to play against. You build that confidence, as well. I’m really happy in the first two games that we didn’t concede a goal.”