Cubans in MLS and the Journey Beyond the Soccer Field
On the soccer fields of Major League Soccer (MLS), two captivating stories unfold, offering a glimpse into not only athletic prowess but also the personal journeys and complexities that transcend the lines of the game. Maikel Chang and Osvaldo Alonso, two Cuban players who found their way to the United States, are protagonists of a narrative that goes beyond goals scored and assists distributed.
Follow MLS Multiplex on Twitter.
- Maikel Chang
Born in Havana, Chang has forged a remarkable path from local clubs in Cuba to clinching the MLS championship with Real Salt Lake. His achievement of 30 career assists is a milestone in the modern era of the league, highlighting not only his individual skill but also his ability to be a catalyst for his team’s success. Chang’s transition to the MLS, coming from the Charleston Battery, is a testament to his determination to seek higher opportunities and challenges.
- Osvaldo Alonso
Alonso’s journey is even more intriguing, starting in Pinar del Río and defecting to the US in 2007. His choice to sign with the Charleston Battery instead of Chivas USA reveals the strategic vision that shaped his career. Over the years, Alonso has become an iconic figure in the defensive midfield, collecting awards and leading teams, from the Seattle Sounders to the Atlanta United. His transition from a Cuban player to an American citizen symbolizes not only a change of nationality but also the ongoing pursuit of excellence in the sport.
Both players personify the resilience and determination required to face significant challenges, not only on the soccer field but also in life. Their stories highlight the role of sports as a platform to overcome cultural and national barriers, providing opportunities for personal and professional growth.
- Beyond the Sport
While we celebrate the individual achievements of Chang and Alonso, we cannot ignore the historical context that shaped their journeys. Alonso’s defection in 2007 coincides with a period of tension in US-Cuba relations. The quest for freedom and opportunities often intertwines with geopolitical events that transcend the realm of sports.
The reestablishment of diplomatic relations between the two countries in 2014, symbolized by the reopening of embassies in 2015, marks a turning point in history. This political shift not only reflects on the international stage but also impacts the lives of individuals like Alonso, whose transition to American citizenship is a testimony to the complex dynamics between nations.
The stories of Maikel Chang and Osvaldo Alonso in the MLS are not just tales of athletic success but also chronicles of overcoming adversity, resilience, and an unrelenting pursuit of opportunities. And while we celebrate their accomplishments on American soccer fields, we must remember that behind each precise kick, there is a rich narrative of determination and courage that transcends the boundaries of the sport.