By DAN KARELL
The Philadelphia Union have added a World Cup goalkeeper to their squad.
The Union announced at a press conference at Noon on Wednesday that they’ve signed Algerian international goalkeeper Rais Mbolhi, fresh off guiding Algeria to their first ever knockout round appearance at the 2014 World Cup. The 28-year-old’s contract, which will become official upon the receipt of his international transfer certificate and his P-1 visa, was not disclosed.
Mbolhi, a native of France who played for his birth nation at youth level before switching to Algeria in 2010, has spent the last four years under contract with CSKA Sofia in Bulgaria, though he’s spent two loan spells with Krylya Sovetov in the Russian Premier League and Gazelec Ajaccio in France’s Ligue 2.
In the introductory press conference, Union CEO Nick Sakiewicz revealed that Mbolhi rejected offers from clubs participating in the UEFA Champions League to join the Union.
Here are some more notes from around the league:
ORLANDO CITY OUT OF ROBINHO SWEEPSTAKES, WON’T PURSUE RONALDINHO
Orlando City SC have scored one major Brazilian signing this year, but their attempt to sign another one looks to be over.
According to a report in the Orlando Sentinel, Orlando City are out of the running to sign AC Milan’s Robinho. Robinho is expected to be on his way out of Italy this summer and while a move to MLS has long been rumored, other clubs reportedly offering more money, including in his native Brazil, have come into the picture, making a future move to Orlando look more and more unlikely.
In addition, Orlando City have ruled out the signing of former World Player of the Year Ronaldinho, who is now a free agent after mutually terminating his contract with Atletico Mineiro.
———–
What do you think of these developments? Do you see Mbolhi starting later this season? What do you think this means for Andre Blake or Zac MacMath? Do you see Orlando signing anymore Brazilians as Designated Players?
Share your thoughts below.