RSL: Is it time for Sebastian Velasquez to return to the first team?

With injuries racking up and the U-20 World Cup just around the corner, is it time for an old fan-favorite to make his return to the first team?

It’s been a wild ride for Sebastian Velasquez since the last time he donned the Claret & Cobalt. After stepping away from NYCFC in 2015 to take care of some personal demons, Velasquez returned to professional play in 2016, becoming the first ever signing for Rayo OKC of the NASL. The flashy midfielder, along with former RSL players Robbie Findley, Devon Sandoval, Pecka, and Rauwshawn McKenzie, would lead Rayo OKC to the post-season in their debut season. The new team would fall to the eventual league champion New York Cosmos, then the club would shut it’s doors and go on hiatus after just one season. Leaving Velasquez out of contract.

Going into the new year, Velasquez chose to return to a familiar place. After being traded to MLS newcomers NYCFC in December of 2014, Velasquez returned to Salt Lake City. This time to lead Real Monarchs SLC in the USL.

Real Monarchs

The Monarchs are off to a hot start, having won five of their six contests thus far into the USL season. The team has scored 15 goals, tied for second best in the league. They currently also have the second best record in the league behind San Antonio FC. Velasquez has played a significant role in their success and it’s not hard to notice.

Playing centrally in their 4-2-3-1 formation, the same used by RSL, Sebastian has scored two goals along with registering one assist over his five appearances. He’s completed 82.9% of his 175 attempted passes, and given his recent form, the argument could be made he is easily one of the best play-makers in USL.

Given Velasquez’s quality form in recent weeks, coupled with RSL’s struggles, is it time for the Colombian attacker to make his return to the first team?

Real Salt Lake

Injuries and call-ups have really tested RSL’s depth this season, and it doesn’t look to be getting any better. With Brooks Lennon and Sebastian Saucedo likely being called into the U-20 World Cup after this week, along with Jordan Allen and Joao Plata both having dealt with injuries this year, reports are surfacing of RSL making a new signing before the Transfer Window closes on Monday.

Apr 22, 2017; Sandy, UT, USA; Real Salt Lake midfielder Albert Rusnak (11) and Atlanta United defender Greg Garza (4) battle for the ball in the first half at Rio Tinto Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Jeff Swinger-USA TODAY Sports /

The new signing looks to be about finished. The 20-year-old Venezuelan attacker, Jefferson Savarino, will take up the last international spot. It also leaves RSL with just one more first team roster spot. Velasquez, who counts as a domestic player, could be a nice, inexpensive, and experienced addition to round out the roster. His recent form and experience would be icing on the cake.

Additionally, midfielders Kyle Beckerman and Sunny have both spent time away with injuries. Midfield engine Albert Rusnák could also miss time this summer with national team call-ups of his own. Velasquez’s versatility could come in handy.

Would it be worth it?

Through the 2017 season, one thing has been certain. Albert Rusnák is the best player on the RSL roster. His high level of play has been constant, despite the team’s struggles. Even earning MLS Player of the Week for his performance against Vancouver. Save injury or call-ups, Velasquez won’t be supplanting Rusnák in the middle anytime soon.

Velasquez’s previous stint with RSL saw him traditionally deployed out wide, flanking Javier Morales in the diamond. He also played on the wings under Jason Kreis with NYCFC. His versatility could help out wide, or even as a box-to-box midfielder. A position currently held by Luke Mulholland. However, it has to be asked if it would be worth the last roster spot.

The team is depleted defensively, and it wouldn’t be hard to justify signing an additional defender over Velasquez. Youngsters Omar Holness and Jose Hernandez need experience, and would need time over Velasquez if RSL decides to use the rough start to the season as a long-term benefit. If Velasquez isn’t going to be the play-maker, would playing him out of position over other players be worth it?

Next: Week 9 Attendance Update

Looking ahead

We should find out soon enough what RSL decides to do. A large number of Monarchs’ players could see time with the first team in Open Cup play. Sadly, the injury plague doesn’t seem to be going away any time soon. For now, Velasquez should keep dominating the USL, which inevitably will lead to more opportunity. Somewhere.

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