The news Minnesota United fans have been waiting for all offseason was announced on Thursday. Miguel Ibarra and Christian Ramirez, two of the most successful players for the club during its time in the NASL, were officially signed as MLS players for the Loons.
Ibarra left the Loons for Club Leon in June 2015 after earning a series of U.S. men’s national team call-ups. However, the appearances at both the club and international levels started to dry up once he moved to Mexico. The 26-year-old made just eight appearances in Liga MX for Leon.
“It means the world to me,” Ibarra said. “This club has given me everything. These fans are the absolute best and I cannot wait to put on the Minnesota colors and represent the crest again. I’m happy and excited to be back home and can’t wait to get started.”
Ramirez, a 25-year-old striker, is a two-time NASL Best XI honoree, and he won the 2014 NASL Golden Boot with 20 tallies in his first season with Minnesota. Ramirez has scored a total of 51 goals for the Loons since his arrival in the North Star State. Despite playing for Minnesota the last three seasons, Ramirez didn’t sign an MLS contract until Thursday.
“I’m thrilled to be bringing back two players of this quality,” Minnesota sporting director Manny Lagos said. “First and foremost we are getting two great personalities and two individuals who have embraced the club and are committed to growing the game in our community. They are obviously great talents on the field and we are very excited to have them be a part of our transition and future in Major League Soccer.”
Man, that’s a great looking uniform.
Hopefully they are able to keep it in MLS
Dynamic duo. MLS 2017 is going to be interesting, can Ramirez and Ibarra combine just a well as they did in the NASL???
Let’s go!!!!
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=-o_SAB_bmzA
MLS will be Ultimate test, can he step up his game
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=iWBlB5eev60
Potentially called up for Jan camp?