The 2023 Major League Soccer season is underway!
After Matchday 1, teams have identified areas of improvement and continue to make the necessary adjustments.
New York City FC brought back Santiago Rodriguez, while Charlotte FC signed a third goalkeeper to add much-needed depth to the roster. Here are all the transfers you missed…
Yamil Asad returns to D.C. United.
The Black and Red brought back the veteran on a one-year deal through the 2023 MLS season with options for 2024 and 2025. He arrives for his third stint with the Eastern Conference team, having originally joined the team on loan during the 2018 season before returning to childhood club Vélez Sarsfield the following year. He managed 14 goals and 11 assists in over 69 appearances for D.C United.
The playmaker spent 2022 in South America with Chilean powerhouse Universidad Católica, scoring one goal in 14 appearances for Los Cruzados.
“Yamil loves this club and has been steadfast in his desire to return,” D.C. president of soccer operations Dave Kasper said in a press release. “I’ve always been impressed with how Yamil leaves it all on the field and bleeds for the shirt. We look forward to getting him back on the field.”
NYCFC have permanently acquired midfielder Santiago Rodríguez from Montevideo City Torque.
The 23-year-old has signed through the 2027 MLS season, returning to the Eastern Conference team after his 18-month loan from the Uruguay-based City Football Group sister side expired last December. Rodríguez will be a Designated Player and wear the No. 10 shirt Moralez previously sported.
Rodríguez will no longer occupy an international roster slot. He is set to be available for NYCFC’s Matchday 2 fixture at Chicago Fire FC.
“Bringing Santi back to the club was a priority for us and we are delighted that we have been able to finalize this deal,” NYCFC sporting director David Lee said in a release. “We’re looking forward to welcoming him back into the group and supporting his development over the years ahead.”
Charlotte FC have signed goalkeeper Isaac Walker from the University of Kentucky on a semi-guaranteed deal for the 2023 MLS season.
He joins after featuring for USL League Two club Flint City Bucks for the past two seasons, making 25 total appearances with three clean sheets during his first season.
“Isaac was a good addition throughout the preseason and proved that he deserves a spot on the roster,” sporting director Zoran Krneta said in a press release. “During his collegiate career, Isaac was impressive in between the posts and will help bring depth to the goalkeeper position as he continues his development in the professional ranks.”
Last season’s starting keeper, Kristijan Kahlina remains sidelined after undergoing back surgery in January. Instead, Pablo Sisniega got the start in goal, while George Marks was on the bench.
