The San Jose Earthquakes completed the acquisition of forward Cristian “Chicho” Arango from Real Salt Lake over the weekend. As part of the deal, Real Salt Lake will receive $1.4 million in General Allocation Money distributed evenly over the upcoming two seasons, along with a 2026 international roster spot from the Earthquakes.
Expressing his satisfaction with the addition of Chicho Arango, Earthquakes’ new head coach and sporting director, Bruce Arena, remarked, “We’re pleased to add one of Major League Soccer’s top goal scorers in Chicho Arango. With his ability to score and create opportunities for his teammates, he will provide another valuable dimension to our attacking options.”
Arango, aged 29, put up an impressive performance last season with Real Salt Lake, tallying 17 goals and 12 assists in 30 matches, with 26 starts. However, his season was briefly interrupted when he received a four-match suspension on July 15 for breaching the MLS Anti-Harassment Policy. The specifics surrounding the disciplinary action remain undisclosed by both the league and Real Salt Lake.
Looking ahead to his future with the San Jose Earthquakes, Arango conveyed his enthusiasm by stating, “I’m very excited to take on this new challenge in San Jose together with everyone at the club, all of the fans and my family. I hope we can accomplish big things. A big hug for everyone and bless you all.”
Having been crowned the 2021 MLS Newcomer of the Year and representing the Colombian national team, Arango boasts an impressive track record of 53 goals and 21 assists in 92 career appearances, with 78 starts split between LAFC and Real Salt Lake.
