The man who played as big a part as any in making the Philadelphia Union a playoff team is now headed home.
Philadelphia and goalkeeper Faryd Mondragon mutually agreed to the Colombian's release Monday, clearing the way for the 40-year-old to end his career in his native country. Mondragon had been rumored in recent days with a return to his first club, Deportivo Cali, and that move was confirmed this afternoon.
After signing with the Union a year ago, nearly to the day, Mondragon transformed Philadelphia into a sound defensive unit, along with center back Carlos Valdes. He was the starting goalkeeper for the MLS All-Star Team against Manchester United in July.
Mondragon suffered a broken finger in September, which paved the way for rookie Zac MacMath to start a few games. MacMath will now be expected to take over permanently in goal for the Union.
The 40-year-old Colombian has played for eleven different clubs over his 22-year career, including three spells with Argentine club Independiente and two spells with Santa Fe in his native Colombia. He returns to Deportivo Cali after starting his career there in 1990.
What do you think of Mondragon's departure from MLS? Think MacMath can make it through a full season in goal for the Union?
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