MLS Seattle Sounders FC

Sounders FC Signs Pineda

Published on March 5, 2014 under Major League Soccer (MLS)
Seattle Sounders FC News Release


RENTON, WASH. - Seattle Sounders FC has signed midfielder Gonzalo Pineda, the club announced today. Per Major League Soccer and club policy, terms were not disclosed. Pineda will be added to the roster pending receipt of his P-I Visa and International Transfer Clearance.

"Gonzalo Pineda is a central midfielder with World Cup experience," said Sporting Director Chris Henderson. "He is a cerebral player with good technique and vision. Gonzo reads the game very quickly and is always thinking ahead of the play. We are happy to add the Mexican International to our squad for 2014."

Pineda, 31, has made 208 appearances in Mexico's Liga MX, scoring once in 27 appearances for Queretaro in the 2013-12 season. He has been capped 32 times by the Mexican National Team, starting three of four appearances in the 2006 FIFA World Cup. Pineda originally joined Sounders FC during the 2014 preseason in Tucson, Ariz., starting all four of his appearances.

"Gonzalo is an experienced player who can control a game in midfield," said Head Coach Sigi Schmid. "His left foot and vision on the ball will help us in key situations."

Pineda began his professional career in 2002 with UNAM Pumas, winning the 2004 Clausura and Apertura. Following three seasons with Pumas, he joined Guadalajara in 2006, where he made 101 appearances in four seasons. Pineda also made 12 appearances in the Copa Libertadores and played four matches in the Copa Sudamericana while with Guadalajara.

Pineda transferred to San Luis in the 2009-10 Clausura, scoring one goal in 14 appearances before joining Cruz Azul. He made 29 appearances for Cruz Azul in Liga MX play during the 2010-11 season, and also played in six matches in the CONCACAF Champions League. He then joined Puebla for the 2011-12 season, making 31 appearances with one goal and four assists.

Pineda most recently played for Queretaro in 2012-13, making 27 regular season appearances and five appearances in the Copa MX. Overall, he has made 244 appearances in Liga MX and international cups, scoring 10 goals with 15 assists.

Sounders FC kicks off the league's 19th season next Saturday against the MLS Cup champion Sporting Kansas City on NBC Sports Network. Kickoff is set for 12 p.m. PT on the Xbox Pitch at CenturyLink Field.

Transaction:Seattle Sounders FC (MLS) - Signed MID Gonzalo Pineda.

GONZALO PINEDA

Position: Midfielder

Height: 5-10

Weight: 166

Birthdate: October 19, 1982

Birthplace: Mexico City, Mexico

Citizenship: Mexico

Previous Clubs: Queretaro (on loan, 2012-13); Puebla (on loan, 2011-12); Cruz Azul (on loan, 2010-11); San Luis (on loan, 2010); Guadalajara (2006-13)

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Major League Soccer Stories from March 5, 2014


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