From an open tryout to a first-team contract, Bernard Kamungo’s incredible story will have a new chapter in 2023 when the 20–year-old forward attempts to carve out a role with FC Dallas this season.
In 2022, Kamungo scored 16 goals in 24 appearances for North Texas, doubling his amount from his initial campaign in 2021. His transcendent performances in the inaugural MLS NEXT Pro season made Kamungo a contender for MLS NEXT Pro MVP and landed him a spot in the league’s Best IX, all while leading North Texas SC to a playoff berth.
Now the young forward looks forward to his next challenge: becoming a significant contributor in an FC Dallas squad stacked with frontline talent.
“Well, I think Bernie (Kamungo) has different qualities. He’s powerful, has great speed, is a really good finisher, and works really hard,” said FC Dallas Head Coach Nico Estévez.
“The important thing with him is that he is a young player, and he will have to wait for his opportunity. He’s working in the right direction, and I think he can help us this year.”
Competing for a starting spot in a team with USMNT players like Jesus Ferreira and Paul Arriola will always be a tall task for any player. However, Kamungo can still be a valuable asset to the team.
If Kamungo’s history with North Texas SC is any indication, Kamungo only needs an opportunity to show his immense talent, but it’ll take time to create an impact in MLS as he did in MLS NEXT Pro.
“I want to score goals. That’s one thing I’m looking forward to doing; I want to score a lot of goals like I normally do and hopefully lift some trophies with the team.” Kamungo started when asked about his goals in his first entire MLS season.
“...it’s time to work and achieve all the goals that I’m trying to achieve this year, and hopefully, I can achieve them.”
