D.C. United's top draft pick arrives - get to know Nikola Markovic

Nikola Markovic seized his biggest opportunity yet Wednesday night. The North Carolina University center-back was selected as the first overall pick by D.C. United. He instantly entered the high-stakes arena of professional soccer.

Born in Quebec, Canada, Markovic first made his mark in the CF Montreal academy, fine-tuning his skills in one of MLS’s most competitive youth environments.

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His decision to pursue collegiate soccer would set the stage for his rapid ascent. That ascent began in 2024 when he committed to NC State, a powerhouse in NCAA soccer. Markovic made an immediate impact—starting all 17 matches in his freshman season and guiding the Wolfpack to the NCAA Round of 16. His sophomore season in 2025 marked the next level.

After playing all 22 games, contributing a goal and an assist, and leading the team to a national runner-up finish, Markovic attracted the attention of scouts and analysts. The result: a coveted spot in the 2026 Generation adidas class, the league’s elite program for top underclassmen and youth internationals. Joining Generation adidas offered tangible advantages.

The partnership between MLS and adidas identifies players still pursuing undergraduate degrees and brings them into professional environments early. Notably, players on Generation adidas contracts occupy Supplemental Roster slots, so their salaries don’t count against the club’s salary cap—reducing financial risk for teams and providing prospects like Markovic with stability and focus for development.

With these resources, Markovic now faces his toughest challenge yet: transforming one of MLS’s most porous defenses. In 2025, D.C. United conceded 66 goals in 34 matches, finishing last in the Eastern Conference with just 26 points. The expectation is high, but history suggests that first overall picks can thrive under pressure.

First-Pick Alumni: Can Nikola Follow in Their Footsteps?

• Manu Duah (2025, San Diego FC) – A defensive stalwart in San Diego’s surprise Western Conference run, Duah started 19 matches and became an immediate anchor in the backline.
• Cyle Larin (2015, Orlando City SC) – Bursting onto the MLS scene, Larin scored 17 goals in his rookie season, earned Rookie of the Year, and went on to net over 40 goals before securing a move to Europe.
• Andrew Farrell (2013, New England Revolution) – From his debut season, Farrell became indispensable, racking up consistent performances and hundreds of minutes over his career.

For Markovic, the bar is set high—but a clear blueprint exists. The convergence of Generation adidas support, NCAA pedigree, and tactical readiness all give him a proven framework to succeed where many rookies stumble.