Reyna Becomes Second Big-Name Player To Join MLS This Month

MLS Red Bulls Officially Sign Reyna

Former U.S. national team MF Claudio Reyna officially joined the MLS Red Bulls yesterday, “filling one of the team’s two designated player spots,” according to Lisa Kennelly of the Newark STAR-LEDGER. Contract terms were not disclosed, but Reyna “acknowledged it was a multiyear deal.” Reyna is the “second big-name star to join MLS this month,” after Real Madrid MF David Beckham signed a five-year deal with the Galaxy. Red Bulls coach Bruce Arena said, “The addition of Beckham and Reyna into this league is an incredible infusion of talent” (Newark STAR-LEDGER, 1/25).

BECKS EFFECT: Fire President & CEO John Guppy said that the team “likely will play host” to the Beckham-led Galaxy at Toyota Park in September or October. In the two weeks after the Beckham announcement, the team renewed 30% of its season-ticket holders and sold over 200 new packages (CHICAGO TRIBUNE, 1/24).

ALL-STAR GAME: Scottish Premier League club Celtic FC will play the MLS All-Star team this summer at Dick’s Sporting Goods Park, the Rapids’ new stadium opening this season. The event will “likely to take place in late July or early August” (DENVER POST, 1/25).