MLS Portland Timbers

Club Legend Diego Valeri Signs One-Day Contract to Retire a Timber

Published on July 14, 2023 under Major League Soccer (MLS)
Portland Timbers News Release


PORTLAND, Ore. - Club legend Diego Valeri has signed a one-day contract to officially retire as a Timber, the Portland Timbers announced today. Valeri will be recognized on the field at pregame and halftime of Saturday's match against Columbus Crew SC for a special Ring of Honor induction ceremony at Providence Park. He will become the sixth member of the Timbers Ring of Honor, joining Clive Charles, John Bain, Jimmy Conway, Mick Hoban and Timber Jim.

"When I first came to Portland, the most important thing to me was to honor the club's history and bring the highest prestige to the Timbers," Valeri shared. "Today, returning to retire a Portland Timber, I feel fulfilled about my journey and adventure with the club and am so thankful for the love the city gave to me."

Acquired as a Designated Player by the Timbers via loan then transfer from Argentine-side Club Atlético Lanús in 2013, Valeri spent a stellar nine seasons (2013-2021) with the club. The Argentine midfielder is the club's all-time leader in regular-season goals scored (86), assists (91) and points (263), while notching 100 goals and 104 assists in 306 appearances (265 starts) across all competitions for Portland. During his time with the club, Valeri helped the Timbers reach three MLS Cups (2015, 2018, 2021) and seven postseason appearances (2013, 2015, 2017, 2018, 2019, 2020, 2021).

"It is only fitting that Diego Valeri will officially retire a Portland Timber," said owner Merritt Paulson. "He gave so much to our club and we can never give back what he has given us. It will be amazing for fans to have the opportunity to recognize Diego publicly Saturday when we induct him into the Ring of Honor."

The most decorated player in club history, Valeri's league honors include the Landon Donovan MLS MVP (2017), MLS Cup MVP (2015) and MLS Newcomer of the Year (2013). Notably, he is the only player in league history to win all three of those awards. A three-time MLS Best XI selection (2013, 2014, 2017) and five-time MLS All-Star honoree (2013, 2014, 2016, 2017, 2018), Valeri was named to 'The 25 Greatest' MLS list in 2020, a recognition of the 25 brightest stars in league history.

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