Returning to the Revs

World Cup defender Llamosa rejoins MLS after holdout

Carlos Llamosa's return solidifies the center of New England's defense. Douglas McFadd/Getty Images

FOXBOROUGH, Massachusetts (Ticker) -- New England Revolution defender Carlos Llamosa, a veteran of the United States national team who has won two MLS Cups, on Thursday re-signed with Major League Soccer.

Llamosa, 33, signed a one-year contract at undisclosed financial terms. He had unsuccessfully pursued playing opportunities in his native Colombia after balking at the U.S. league's contract offer.

"I understand this is like a business. I asked for a better contract and I thought I showed in the last six years that I deserved it. But they don't give money to every player who is asking for more money.

"The team communicated to me they wanted me back, and I want to be here. It would have been sad not to come back."

After being taken fifth overall in last year's MLS Allocation Draft, Llamosa played in 14 regular season games and five playoff contests with the Revolution, helping them to an MLS Cup appearance.

"Obviously, we're delighted to have Carlos returning to the team," Revolution coach Steve Nicol said. "A player of his known experience will give us incredible strength and depth on the back line."

A two-time All-Star, Llamosa has played six years in MLS, appearing in 141 games with D.C. United, the Miami Fusion and Revolution. He helped United to the league championship in 1997 and 1999.

Llamosa also has 29 caps with the U.S. national team. He debuted with the squad in November 1998 and spent last spring with the club during its successful run at the Korea-Japan World Cup.

The Revolution, runners-up to the L.A. Galaxy last year, are currently in Brazil for preseason training.

 

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