Dairon Asprilla’s Departure Could Shake Portland Timbers

Dairon Asprilla is all set to head back to Colombia, his home country. He’s joining Atlético Nacional. After ten years filled with goals, assists, and magical moments, Asprilla is leaving Portland, and the impact of this decision goes beyond the soccer field.

At 32, Dairon Asprilla returns home but not without leaving an impressive legacy with the Timbers. Over a decade, he made 203 regular-season appearances, scored 33 goals, and provided 20 assists. And that’s not counting the 4 goals and 4 assists in 17 Audi MLS Cup playoff games.

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It was 2015, and the Timbers captured the coveted MLS Cup. Those who were there witnessed it, and those who weren’t heard all about it. Asprilla played a crucial role in that victory and in the campaigns that led the team to two more finals, in 2018 and 2021.

Ned Grabavoy, the Timbers' general manager, had nothing but praise for our forward. “Dairon provided Timbers fans with some of the most memorable moments with his unique ability to do the unexpected. His commitment, work ethic, and selfless character will be deeply missed within our group,” Grabavoy said.

Under head coach Phil Neville, the team currently sits fifth in the Western Conference, with 33 points. It’s a solid campaign, but now they’ll need to adjust to the absence of one of their pillars.

Atlético Nacional is gaining an experienced, talented player with a resume full of achievements. For Asprilla, it’s a chance to reconnect with his roots and, perhaps, write new glorious chapters in his career. And for the Timbers? Well, the challenge now is to find a worthy replacement. Someone who can not only fill the gap left by Asprilla but also bring new energy and possibilities to the team. The season is still ongoing, and the Audi MLS Cup playoffs are just around the corner.