Editorial (July 30, 2017) – Earlier this week, the Colorado Rapids finally announced an attacking signing. The have acquired German Winger Stefan Aigner, formerly of 1860 Munich on a free transfer. The 29-year-old has been signed to a three and a half year contract and will occupy an International Roster Slot.
Colorado Rapids Sign Winger Stefan Aigner: What It Means
The 29-year-old Aigner comes to MLS from his hometown club, 1860 Munich. They were a member of Bundesliga 2 this past season. Aigner leaves them after a messy situation has them down to a fourth division regional league. In the 2016-17 season, Aigner made 24 appearances, recording four goals and three assists.
“We’re excited to add a player of Stefan’s caliber to our roster for the next three-and-a-half years. As an organization we are committed to fielding a forward thinking side and bringing in Stefan – a technical and versatile player who can excel in multiple attacking roles – will help us achieve that vision,” said Rapids Sporting Director and Interim General Manager, Pádraig Smith.
Aigner’s best stint professionally came from 2012-2016 with Eintracht Frankfurt in the first division. He made 95 appearances over four years, scoring 22 goals. He was the Captain at times and played a year in the Europa League as well. In total, the Munich native has plaed 274 matches in the top two divisions in Germany. He has 31 goals and 25 assists in Bundesliga 2 and 25 goals and 25 assists in the Bundesliga.
What It Means For The Rapids:
It’s always hard to tell with European signings in the summer. Aigner has a lot to get used to, from the altitude, to the travel, to the style of play in MLS. But the Rapids have struggled at times creating offense from the wings this year. They need someone who can cut inside and combine with Kevin Doyle. Or provide service to Dominique Badji and Alan Gordan in the box. Aigner can provide that.
This signing will shuffle things up elsewhere as well. Eric Miller, Mekeil Williams, and Mike da Fonte have all had some bad spells at outside back. Aigner’s arrival will open the door for Marlon Hairston to move to right back. Hairston can’t be any worse defensively and he’ll provide more going forward. That will help keep the opposing wide players honest. It will take some pressure of the central mids as well.
If Aigner can be productive and kick start the offense, he’s exactly what Colorado needs. He’ll have to be that if they’re going to make a run at the playoffs.
TRANSACTION: Colorado Rapids – July 26, 2017 – Rapids acquire German attacker Stefan Aigner through the 2020 season on a free transfer from 1860 Munich.
Full Name: Stefan Aigner
Age: 29
Position: Midfielder
Height: 6’
Weight: 160
Birth Date: August 20, 1987
Birthplace: Munich, Germany
Hometown: Munich, Germany
