Sporting KC MLS Cup 2013: Where are they now?

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KANSAS CITY, KS – DECEMBER 07: Paulo Nagamura #6 of Sporting KC reacts to scoring a goal during the shootout against of Real Salt Lake in the 2013 MLS Cup at Sporting Park on December 7, 2013 in Kansas City, Kansas. (Photo by Scott Halleran/Getty Images) /

CM – Paulo Nagamura – Retired

Midfielder Paulo Nagamura played a key part in the MLS Cup final in 2013, in what was his only appearance in the postseason, as he scored the second penalty in the shootout for SKC.

The Brazilian played the entirety of his professional career in North America, having spent time at São Paulo and with English giants Arsenal during his youth days. After securing the Premier League U-19 Championship with Arsenal, Nagamura made the move Stateside, signing for LA Galaxy, making his MLS debut in 2005.

In his first season with the Galaxy, he helped the team to the double, as they lifted both the U.S. Open Cup and the MLS Cup that year. He then spent time with Toronto FC before making the move to Chivas USA. Nagamura played for the team in five consecutive MLS seasons, tallying over 100 appearances for the club.

The Brazilian also spent time at Tigres UANL in Liga MX before signing for Sporting Kansas City in 2012. He was part of the side that won the U.S. Open Cup that year, before going on to help the side win the MLS Cup final a year later.

The midfielder played in Kansas City for five years, making over 100 appearances for the club before retiring after the 2016 campaign. He became part of the coaching staff for the club’s reserve and academy set up.

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