Minnesota United today announced that it has reached an agreement with Club Deportes Tolima of Colombia’s Categoría Primera A for the transfer of Ángelo Rodríguez, who joins the Loons as the second Designated Player in club history. The Colombian forward will arrive pending receipt of his P1 Visa and ITC and will occupy an international spot on Minnesota’s roster.
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“He is a big-time player,” said MNUFC Head Coach Adrian Heath. “We have just added a difference-maker to our roster. He’s a player who is physical, skilled and knows how to score. He holds up the ball well and is also able to turn and run at defenders. He causes stress on defenses by closing down and pressing. He has seen some of the best competition in Colombia and has stepped up in big moments. We are thrilled to bring another valuable addition to Minnesota.”
Rodríguez, 29, is in the prime of his career and makes the jump to MLS following a successful, extensive stint in his home country with Atlético Nacional, Deportivo Independiente Medellín and Envigado Fútbol Club among others and, most recently, Deportes Tolima. He played a vital role in Deportes Tolima’s run to the 2018 Apertura title, starting at forward and scoring six goals in 1259 minutes played.
“We are excited to get him to Minnesota,” said MNUFC Sporting Director Manny Lagos. “He’s a player who has just won a championship in Colombia and he wants to be here in Minnesota –– he has made that clear to everyone on our staff. He wants to come here and make an impact with our club. We have always said we want to bring in the right type of players at the right time and he fits the mold. We have just made two big-impact signings in this window and are continuing to build and develop this roster for this season and beyond.”
Rodríguez joins his compatriot Darwin Quintero, who was announced as the first Designated Player in club history at the end of March.
Minnesota United’s next home match is an international friendly against captain Francisco Calvo’s former club, Costa Rica’s Deportivo Saprissa. Tickets are now available for that match on Wednesday, July 11 at 7:00 p.m. CT. With 14,500 season ticket holders for 2018, MNUFC has started a 2019 waiting list for season tickets at Allianz Field. Get on the list today with mini plans starting at five matches for this season, now available at MNUFC.COM or by calling 763.4SOCCER.
Transaction: Minnesota United signs Ángelo Rodríguez from Club Deportes Tolima and signs him to a Designated Player contract.
VITALS
Ángelo José Rodríguez Henry
Position: Forward
Born: 4/4/1989 (29 years old)
Height: 5’11”
Weight: 176 lbs.
Last club: Deportes Tolima
Birthplace: Isla de San Andrés, Colombia
Citizenship: Colombia
