NEW YORK | New York City FC are pleased to announce 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.
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.
Speaking to NYCFC.com Mena said:
“I’m very excited to join an ambitious club like New York City FC and to work with a very strong squad. 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.”
Head Coach Jason Kreis commented on adding to his defensive options:
“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.”
Sporting Director Claudio Reyna added:
“We’re delighted to come to an agreement to bring Jefferson to New York City FC. He is a talented defender with a commanding presence that will help strengthen our squad.”
In order to add Mena to the squad, New York City FC acquired an international roster slot in 2015 and 2016 through a trade with the Los Angeles Galaxy in exchange for allocation money.
