By IVES GALARCEP
Sporting Kansas City introduced Argentine striker Claudio Bieler as the team’s newest Designated Player on Tuesday, acquiring the 28-year-old striker via transfer from Ecuadorian side LDU Quito.
“He’s proven over the years that he’s a very consistent goal scorer,” Sporting Kansas City Manager Peter Vermes said. “We think he’s got a lot of good qualities that can fit into our team. Everything from his commitment to being a team player, to his work ethic out on the field, to a guy that lives and breathes for club that he plays for.”
Bieler joins a Sporting KC strike force that already includes C.J. Sapong, Kei Kamara and Teal Bunbury. With Sporting KC preparing to compete in multiple competitions (CONCACAF Champions League and U.S. Open as well as MLS), establishing good depth will be key for KC.
A native of Argentina, Bieler scored 71 goals in 155 matches in all competitions for LDU Quito. He helped LDU Quito win the 2008 Copa Libertadores, scoring in the final against Fluminense. He also played for LDU Quito in the 2008 Club World Cup.
Bieler’s acquisition is the latest in a busy off-season for Sporting KC, which has already added Benny Feilhaber, Ike Opara and Josh Gardner. KC did lose standout midfielder Roger Espinoza, who left for English Premier League side Wigan Athletic via transfer.
What do you think of this signing? See Bieler making an impact in MLS? Think Sporting KC are the new favorites for 2013 in MLS?
Share your thoughts below.