MLS
When will Chicho Arango make his debut for Real Salt Lake?
The former LAFC striker won MLS Newcomer of the Year in 2021 and returns to the league to join Pablo Mastroeni’s side.
Real Salt Lake supporters will be eagerly awaiting Chicho Arango’s first appearance at the America First Field. His signing was announced to much fanfare in mid-June, bringing back a player who has previously lit up MLS.
The Colombian striker joined LAFC in 2021 and was a key part of the team that lifted the Supporters Shield and their first-ever MLS Cup in 2022. Arango was awarded the MLS Newcomer of the Year award in his debut season and was an MLS MVP finalist in 2022.
After racking up 35 goals in 58 games for LAFC he secured a move to Pachuca of Liga MX at the start of this year. However his move south of the border was short-lived and he has been brought to Utah for what is thought to be a franchise-record fee.
“I want a title this season, not next season,” said Arango, when the move was first announced. “I think we have a good team here, we have the experience, there’s honestly no excuse.”
He added: “We just have to continue to work hard and work hard together to get that title as soon as possible.”
Chicho Arango to make second MLS debut on 8 July
The 28-yar-old forward was officially unveiled as a Real Salt Lake player at the America First Field on 10 June, during an MLS fixture against New York City. But despite having finalised the deal Arango was not initially eligible to play for the side.
Real Salt Lake fans will have to wait until the league’s Secondary Transfer Window opens on 5 July, now less than a week away. Once that date has passed and Arango has been registered in the roster he should be available for selection against Orlando City SC on 8 July.
RSL general manager Elliot Fall described Chicho as a “transformational piece” for the team.
“Any time you get the opportunity to bring a player in of Chicho’s quality, it’s a massive day for the club,” Fall said. “Any club in MLS would be thrilled to have him.”
Real Salt Lake are currently sixth in the Western Conference, just two points adrift of second-place Seattle Sounders. They look likely to reach the playoffs and will hope that Arango’s goal-scoring ability and big game experience can make the difference in the close season.