Chester, PA (Sports Network) - The Philadelphia Union and goalkeeper Faryd
Mondragon agreed to part ways on Monday, allowing the Colombian to return to
his native country to play for Deportivo Cali.
Mondragon began his professional career with Cali in 1990 at the age of 21
before moving on to play in Europe with a host of teams, including Real
Zaragoza, FC Metz and Galatasaray.
"It has been an absolute honor and a privilege to be part of the Union
family," said Mondragon. "My time in Philadelphia has proven to be
unforgettable, and I am tremendously proud of having led the team for what
proved to be a successful 2011. We achieved most of our goals and continued
the club's growth into becoming the best club in MLS. For family reasons, I
have requested the club to allow me the opportunity to finish my career where
it started."
The 40-year-old Mondragon joined the Union from German side Cologne last
January. And after taking over as captain, started 27 games in goal and
recorded seven clean sheets.
Mondragon was named to the 2011 MLS All-Star team and finished second in the
voting for the 2011 MLS Goalkeeper of the Year award behind Seattle's Kasey
Keller.
The Sports Network