Philadelphia Union and goalkeeper Faryd Mondragon today announced that they have mutually decided to part ways, allowing for Mondragon to return to his native Colombia and play for Colombian First Division side Deportivo Cali.
Mondragon spent one season in Philadelphia with the Union. He appeared in 27 matches and posted a 62 percent save percentage with seven clean sheets.
Mondragon became the Union's second-ever All-Star representative, starting against Manchester United in the 2011 game. Mondragon fractured his right finger against Real Salt Lake on September 3, sidelining him for seven matches, but he returned for the final two matches of the regular season and the Union's first playoff appearance.
Mondragon capped off his stellar season with a second-place finish in 2011 Allstate MLS Goalkeeper of the Year voting, behind only Kasey Keller."It has been an absolute honor and a privilege to be part of the Union family," said Mondragon.
"My time in Philadelphia has proven to be unforgettable, and I am tremendously proud of having led the team for what proved to be a successful 2011. We achieved most of our goals and continued the club's growth into becoming the best club in MLS.
"For family reasons, I have requested the club to allow me the opportunity to finish my career where it started. I am extremely thankful with our fans, especially Sons of Ben, the best fans in MLS, our ownership, technical staff, my teammates and everyone in the city of Philadelphia who always made me feel at home and made the 2011 season one I will never forget. I look forward to coming back to PPL Park as an avid fan and part of the Union family. I wish the club continued success."
Philadelphia currently has one keeper in camp - Zac MacMath - who filled in nicely for Mondragon when he was out for those seven games in 2011. The second year keeper will have large shoes to fill in 2012. Philadelphia will have to scramble to being in some depth behind MacMath.
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Feb 24
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