Defender Jefferson Mena Joins NYCFC
Soccer News: New York City FC have announced the signing of Colombian Jefferson Mena. Mena was acquired on a transfer from Colombian team Independiente Medellín.
The 26-year-old central defender made 81 appearances for the Colombian side between 2011 and 2015, playing a pivotal role for Medellín during their 2014 campaign when the club finished runners up in the Primera A Clausura.
“I’m very excited to join an ambitious club like New York City FC and to work with a very strong squad,” Mena said to NYCFC. “I look forward to meeting my new teammates and learning from the coaching staff while exploring my new home in the great city of New York. I am particularly excited about playing in front of New York City FC Fans, who I hear create a great atmosphere for the team at Yankee Stadium.”
Mena will join up with the team later this month and will be eligible for immediate selection pending receipt of his International Transfer Certificate, P1 Visa and a physical.
Commenting on his additions to his defense, Head Coach Jason Kreis said, “Jefferson is a player I have been watching for a while and I couldn’t be happier to add him to our squad. His athletic ability and speed will provide us with a strong new option in the center back position. He’s a good technical player just about to hit the prime of his career and will add international quality and experience to the team.”
In order to add Mena to the squad, New York City FC acquired an international roster slot in 2015 & 2016 through a trade with the LA Galaxy in exchange for allocation money.
“We’re delighted to come to an agreement to bring Jefferson to New York City FC,” Sporting Director Claudio Reyna said. “He is a talented defender with a commanding presence that will help strengthen our squad.”
