D.C. United connects to Sporting Kansas City in 2 degrees through coaching and DP transfer. First, D.C. United links to LA Galaxy via coaching: Bruce Arena managed D.C. United (1996–1998) and LA Galaxy (2008–2016). Finally, LA Galaxy links to Sporting Kansas City via DP transfer: Dejan Joveljić (Designated Player) traded from LA Galaxy to Sporting Kansas City (2025). The first cash-for-player trade in MLS history at $4 million.