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Seattle Sounders add midfielder Miguel Ibarra ahead of CCL clash

Ahead of their Concacaf Champions League clash tonight, the Seattle Sounders made roster moves by adding Miguel Ibarra and re-signing Alex Roldan.
Miguel Ibarra Sounders MLS

Seattle, Wash. — One more addition has made its way on the Seattle Sounders FC roster head of tonight’s Concacaf Champions League match. The club announced the signing of midfielder Miguel Ibarra, who flew with the team to train in Mexico. Now, the Sounders are in Honduras, gearing up for their CCL clash against CD Olimpia.

Ibarra featured for Minnesota United for the last three seasons. With the club since it’s beginning, Ibarra made 84 appearances in Minnesota, scoring 11 goals. Ibarra also has three appearances for the U.S. men’s national team since 2014.

“Miguel has fit into the group very well,” Brian Schmetzer, Sounders head coach, said in a conference call on Tuesday. “He’s an experienced MLS player. If the deal happens, if he signs with us, I would be very happy… He will fit in nicely as a rotation player.”

Born to Mexican parents in the United States, Ibarra attended UC Irvine from 2010-11. He started his professional career with Minnesota United, back when the club competed in the NASL. He made 90 appearances for the team, scoring 17 goals.

However, Ibarra challenged himself more by signing with Liga MX club, León. He remained with the club for only one season before heading back up north to Minnesota.

“His skillset gives us another good option in the attack as we prepare to start the 2020 campaign,” Garth Lagerwey, Sounders general manager, said.

He is eligible for selection in tonight’s Concacaf Champions League match against CD Olimpia. The contest will be held at 10 p.m. EST/7 p.m. PT. The first leg will take place in Honduras, at the Estadio Olímpico Metropolitano.

Sounders re-sign Alex Roldan

Earlier in the week, the Sounders also announced the re-signing of Alex Roldan. However, his spot on the team is in a new position. Last year, Roldan — the younger brother of Sounders stalwart Cristian Roldan — featured as a midfielder. Now, he’s listed as a defender.

It’s an area that Seattle needs depth. Roldan can help provide that depth.

Last year, the younger Roldan made five starts in nine appearances. He provided one assist. Roldan has been with the Sounders for two years, totaling 28 appearances. He did not see any action in the MLS Cup Playoffs in the last two seasons.

“We’re excited to bring back Alex for another season in Seattle and see how he does at a new position,” Lagerwey said. “He has been a great pro these past two seasons, and his experience with our club will allow us to be flexible with him on the field.”

 

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