MLS D.C. United

D.C. United's Hristo Stoitchkov Receives Green Card

Published on July 30, 2003 under Major League Soccer (MLS)
D.C. United News Release


CHANTILLY, VA (July 30, 2003) - D.C. United forward Hristo Stoitchkov received his green card from the Bureau of Citizenship and Immigration Services and will no longer count as a Senior International on United's roster, the club announced today. Stoitchkov, 37, joined United this season after spending three years with the Chicago Fire.

Stoitchkov started seven of his 14 games played this season, for a total of 644 minutes. The fiery striker has scored two goals and notched five assists (nine points) for the Black-and-Red this season. Stoitchkov also serves as an assistant coach for the club.

Stoitchkov's lengthy career has seen him earn accolades and titles all over the globe. As a member of the Bulgarian National Team, Stoitchkov earned the Golden Boot as the top scorer of FIFA World Cup USA '94 and helped his country to a surprise fourth place finish in the event. Stoitchkov's place as one of the best footballers of the last decade was confirmed after he won the Golden Onze, awarded to the world's best footballer, in 1992. That same year Stoitchkov was given the Silver Globe from FIFA as the world's second best player, and he was awarded the same prize two years later in 1994. Stoitchkov was also awarded with the Golden Ball in 1994, which goes to the best football player in Europe. Throughout his lengthy career, Stoitchkov has led his clubs to over 40 titles in domestic and international competitions.

The native of Plovdiv, Bulgaria started his playing career in 1977 for his hometown team of Maritza Plovdiv. Since then, Stoitchkov has suited up for first division teams in Bulgaria (CSKA Sofia, 1985-90, 1998), Spain (Barcelona 1990-95, 1996-98), Italy (Parma, 1995-96), Saudi Arabia (Al Nasar, 1998) and Japan (Kashiwa Reysol, 1998-99) before signing with MLS in 2000.

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Major League Soccer Stories from July 30, 2003


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