Juan Agudelo Announces Retirement After Season with San Antonio
BREAKING: Juan Agudelo, once the youngest goal scorer for the U.S. national soccer team, has announced he will retire at the end of the season with San Antonio FC. This news comes as Agudelo, who turns 33 years old on November 23, 2023, wraps up his time in the United Soccer League Championship.
Agudelo made headlines in 2010 when he scored against South Africa at just 17 years old, a record that stood until Christian Pulisic broke it in 2016. With a total of three goals in 28 appearances for the U.S. from 2010 to 2018, all in friendlies, his impact on American soccer is undeniable.
Currently playing for San Antonio, Agudelo has netted seven goals in 28 games this season, contributing significantly to the team’s playoff ambitions as they head into their regular-season finale against El Paso this Saturday.
Agudelo’s journey began in Colombia, where he was born before moving to the U.S. at age 7. His talent was evident early on, as he made a substitute appearance at the 2009 Under-17 World Cup and debuted for the senior national team in a friendly against South Africa on November 10, 2017. This debut coincided with current U.S. captain Tim Ream also making his first appearance.
Despite his successful career in Major League Soccer, where he played for teams like the New York Red Bulls and New England Revolution, Agudelo’s attempt to join Stoke City in 2014 was thwarted by a work permit issue, leading to a loan to Utrecht.
As Agudelo prepares for his final matches, fans and players alike reflect on his contributions to U.S. soccer. His retirement marks the end of an era for a player who brought excitement and hope to the field. With San Antonio in a playoff battle, all eyes will be on him as he looks to leave a lasting legacy on the pitch.
WHAT’S NEXT: Fans can follow Agudelo’s last games with San Antonio, hoping for a triumphant finish to his career. His story inspires many young players, highlighting the emotional journey of an athlete who started his career as a prodigy and is now stepping into retirement.
