FC Cincinnati made waves in Major League Soccer (MLS) on Monday by securing Brazilian midfielder Evander from the Portland Timbers for a staggering $12 million. This monumental fee not only set a new benchmark for transactions between MLS clubs but also highlighted Cincinnati’s ambition to bolster their squad. Along with the financial arrangement, the Timbers will retain a future sell-on percentage along with a potential additional $150,000 contingent on Evander’s performance in Cincinnati.
At just 26 years of age, Evander has made a substantial impact in the league. Last season, he recorded a remarkable 15 goals and led the league with 19 assists in 28 matches, showcasing his ability to both score and create opportunities—an invaluable asset for any team. His notable performance earned him a prestigious spot as an MLS All-Star and an MVP finalist, as well as a place on the MLS Best XI. These accolades serve as a testament to his significant contributions on the field and underline his potential to help define Cincinnati’s attacking play.
The timing of this acquisition is particularly strategic, as Cincinnati needs to fill the void left by their renowned midfielder Luciano Acosta, who was traded to FC Dallas just days prior. General Manager Chris Albright expressed excitement about Evander joining the team, underlining the midfielder’s creative flair and vision which he believes will substantially enhance the team’s attacking capabilities. With Evander now in the lineup, Cincinnati is not only aiming to replace Acosta but is also signaling a commitment to improving their overall performance and competitiveness in the league.
Bringing Evander into the squad signifies a decisive step in FC Cincinnati’s sports strategy, reflecting a broader trend in the league where clubs are willing to invest heavily for quality talent. His addition is further emphasized by Albright’s comments about Evander’s character, emphasizing his reputation as an excellent teammate and a player who can elevate the dynamics of the group. Such sentiments are crucial as team chemistry often plays a pivotal role in a club’s success.
Timbers’ Quick Response
In response to Evander’s departure, the Timbers swiftly moved to acquire David Da Costa from RC Lens for around $6 million. This immediate response suggests that Portland is keen on maintaining competitiveness and continuity in their midfield options. Da Costa, a 24-year-old Portuguese player, has a solid track record, marking his time in France with 11 goals and 17 assists over four seasons. His signing indicates the club’s proactive approach to rebuild after losing a key player.
As Evander prepares to don the FC Cincinnati jersey, his enthusiasm radiates through his statement expressing eagerness to meet the fans and contribute to the club’s success. His focus on winning trophies reflects a shared aspiration among Cincinnati’s supporters. As the season approaches, the spotlight will be on how Evander integrates into the team and whether he can replicate his impressive performances in the MLS, thus fulfilling the high expectations that accompany his record-setting transfer.