Another diminutive Designated Player is making his way to Toronto FC.
The club announced on Monday that Yeferson Soteldo has signed for the Reds, joining Jozy Altidore and Alejandro Pozuelo as the club’s third DP.
“I am very excited to come to Toronto FC,” said Soteldo via a translator. “It is one of the most important sports organizations in Canada and the United States. It is an MLS Cup champion, has great players, and, most importantly, they are always competing to win. They have amazing fans and facilities.”
“I want to get there as soon as possible and start working with my teammates. I want to show my commitment and what I bring to the game,” he continued. “In the meantime, I want to wish the team all the best in the next Concacaf Champions League game against Cruz Azul.”
The 23-year-old left winger, who has also featured as an attacking midfielder, arrives from Brazilian giants Santos FC, where he took on the hallowed mantle of Pele’s number 10 jersey.
Having made his professional debut at 16 with Zamora FC with stops along the way at CD Huachipato and Club Universidad in Chile, Soteldo flourished in Brazil. He was named to the Best XI for the 2020 Copa Libertadores where Santos were runners-up.
MLS has long been a destination for Venezuelan talent. Soteldo has 17 caps for the national team, scoring one goal. That is part of what drew his attention to the league and TFC.
“MLS has been getting a lot of interest worldwide. It is competitive, with thousands of fans in every game. I have followed the league and the impact it is having,” he explained. “MLS has incredible stadiums, quality players, and games with an excellent level.”
“All that excites me because I will be competing at a high level which I will bring to the Venezuelan National Team,” Soteldo foresaw. “Many Venezuelans are playing in the MLS and the majority also represent the National Team. I will meet again with Erickson Gallardo in TFC and I have always followed with pride and admiration what Josef Martínez has achieved in Atlanta.”
Soteldo will join the side in Florida as soon as his international transfer certification clears and he passes quarantine protocols.
“I am thankful to Toronto FC for the effort they made, along with Secaports Agency, to bring me to the team and make this possible,” added Soteldo. “I promise to do my best to achieve important things. I'm excited.”
