KANSAS CITY, Kan. – Sporting Kansas City had a need for another right footed center back after their trade of Ike Opara, and they have indeed found that. They announced that they’ve signed a defender from Rwanda, Abdul Rwatubyaye. He is the first Rwandan player in MLS History.

Sporting KC sign Abdul Rwatubyaye

Rwatubyaye (believed to be pronounced Gwah-to-bye), is a 22 year old center back, who is naturally right footed. The terms of the deal are still unknown.

“He is a player that we have seen, we have watched,” Peter Vermes told reporters. “He’s a young guy and we think he has some upside to him. So we’re excited to add him to the roster and to the team.”

Rwatubyaye was recently a free agent after his deal with Rayon Sports was up. He had gone on trial with Macedonian club, FC Shkupi but obviously that has now gone in different directions

Rwatubyaye, has appeared in 19 matches for the Rwandan National team and is considered the best defender the country has. The Rwatubyaye signing was done thanks in large part to the club’s original signing of Latif Blessing. The connection was made through the same person.

Rwatubyaye is 6 foot tall, a physical and ariel presence on the backline. He’s remarkably quick as well, but could use a little polishing when it comes to the technical side of things. Still, he should be a relatively good addition.

Rwatubyaye will join the backline of Andreu Fontás, Matt Besler, Botond Barath, and Graham Smith. He is expected to join the team in a few weeks as his P-1 Visa gets sorted out as well.

Vitals

Name: Abdul Rwatubyaye

Age: 22

Height: 6’1″

Position: Center Back

Birthplace: Kiagli, Rwanda

Previous Club: Rayon Sports (Rwanda)