Earthquakes acquire Cristian 'Chicho' Arango from RSL

Field Level Media|published: Sat 11th January, 14:12 2025

Oct 29, 2024; Sandy, Utah, USA; Real Salt Lake forward Cristian Arango (9) during a corner kick against Minnesota United FC during the second half at America First Field. Mandatory Credit: Christopher Creveling-Imagn Images

The San Jose Earthquakes acquired forward Cristian "Chicho" Arango from Real Salt Lake on Saturday.

Real Salt Lake will receive $1.4 million in General Allocation Money split evenly across the next two seasons and a 2026 international roster spot from the Earthquakes.

"We're pleased to add one of Major League Soccer's top goal scorers in Chicho Arango," Earthquakes new head coach/sporting director Bruce Arena said. "With his ability to score and set up his teammates for goals, he'll offer another good option to our attack."

Arango, 29, collected 17 goals and 12 assists in 30 matches (26 starts) last season with Real Salt Lake.

The Colombian was suspended on July 15 for four matches for violating the MLS Anti-Harassment Policy. Neither the league nor Real Salt Lake divulged what led to the disciplinary action.

For now, Arango is looking toward the future with his new team.

"I'm very excited to take on this new challenge in San Jose together with everyone at the club, all of the fans and my family," Arango said in a statement.

"I hope we can accomplish big things. A big hug for everyone and bless you all."

The 2021 MLS Newcomer of the year and Columbia international, Arango has 53 goals and 21 assists in 92 career matches (78 starts) with LAFC and Real Salt Lake.

--Field Level Media

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