Colorado Rapids decided to reinforce their defense for the 2019 season with an All-Star addition. The team announced on Wednesday that they had acquired U.S. international defender Keegan Rosenberry from Philadelphia Union.
In order to get Rosenberry, who is considered one of the most talented young defenders in the league, Rapids gave away up to $400,000 in allocation money. Philadelphia will receive $150,000 in General Allocation Money and $50,000 in Targeted Allocation Money next year while getting $100,000 in 2020. Colorado will give up another $100,000 in allocation money in 2020 if certain conditions are met.
One of the best, young defenders in MLS is burgundy & blue.
Help us welcome @K_J_Rose to Colorado!
📝 More info: https://t.co/I3zy0gdhbu pic.twitter.com/VRgkae0N9v
— Colorado Rapids (@ColoradoRapids) December 19, 2018
“In Keegan Rosenberry we are very excited to welcome one of the best young right backs in MLS to Colorado,” – said Pádraig Smith, Rapids’ executive vice president and general manager. “He is a technically gifted and strong defender whose passing from the back will fit perfectly with our style of play.”
Keegan Rosenberry debuted in the MLS in 2016, after Philadelphia took him third overall in the draft. He ended up playing 80 games in the league since then, scoring three goals. Rosenberry also earned an All-Star appearance in 2016, while finishing second in the MLS Rookie of the Year voting.
“I’m looking forward to the next chapter in my professional career,” – said Rosenberry upon joining the Rapids. “The Rapids organization have shown massive trust in me by bringing me here and I’m ready to get to work.“
