Mauro Rosales returns to Vancouver Whitecaps
By Gareth Wolff
Vancouver Whitecaps FC announced on Monday that midfielder Mauro Rosales is rejoining the club, after spending a season with FC Dallas.
It never rains, but it pours. And Vancouver Whitecaps fans can tell you all about rain. Even their new 2017 jerseys are covered in triangles representing raindrops.
After an anxious offseason, the last week has been busy for ‘Caps fans. First, Fredy Montero signed. Then, Brek Shea was acquired in exchange for Giles Barnes. And now, Mauro Rosales is back.
It's official - @mdr7 is back!#VWFC announce return of experienced midfielder Mauro Rosales: https://t.co/up9NSWtxjV pic.twitter.com/aC7g6kJwMN
— Vancouver Whitecaps FC (@WhitecapsFC) February 27, 2017
A week after he was apparently instrumental in engineering Montero’s signing, the Argentinean midfielder signed an MLS contract for 2017. Previously, Rosales spent a season and a half with the Whitecaps from August 2014 to the end of the 2015 season. During that time, he scored one goal and provided six assists in 36 appearances. Rosales spent the 2016 MLS season with FC Dallas.
Rosales’ arrival is likely in response to the injury Reyna sustained in the final preseason match against Portland. With Yordy Reyna’s injury and Pedro Morales’ departure, coach Carl Robinson’s options at the #10 position were limited, and Rosales will provide some depth at that position.
Locker-room presence
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At 36 years old, he will be unlikely to start often. However, Rosales may make his biggest contribution in the locker-room. Robinson has a track record of bringing in experienced players to provide mentorship for his younger players. Robert Earnshaw and Pa-Modou Kah are good examples. Both players have subsequently transitioned into coaching roles at the club.
Robinson seems to expect something similar from Rosales, judging by his quotes in the Whitecaps’ announcement.
"“We have some talented young attacking players, and along with our coaching staff, Mauro is one of the best ones to teach them. He brings professionalism, the right attitude, and demands the best from teammates. He is a welcome addition back to our club.”"
Rosales will also be able to help Montero adjust, having played on the same team with him previously in Seattle.
Related Story: Fredy Montero Signs for Vancouver Whitecaps
Rosales will not be eligible to participate in the CONCACAF Champions League return leg against the New York Red Bulls, due to already playing for FC Dallas in the same competition.
What do you think Rosales will bring to the Whitecaps? Leave us your comments below.