Diego Valeri signed a one-day contract with the Portland Timbers on Friday to retire as a member of the franchise.
Valeri, who spent 9 seasons in Portland (2013-21), can be honored throughout pregame and halftime ceremonies of Saturday’s match in opposition to Columbus Crew.
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The Argentine midfielder can be inducted into the Timbers Ring of Honor, becoming a member of Clive Charles, John Bain, Jimmy Conway, Mick Hoban and Timber Jim.
“Once I first got here to Portland, crucial factor to me was to honor the membership’s historical past and produce the very best status to the Timbers,” Valeri stated. “At the moment, returning to retire a Portland Timber, I really feel fulfilled about my journey and journey with the membership and am so grateful for the love town gave to me.”
Retiring as one in all our personal 💚@adidasfootball x #RCTID
— Portland Timbers (@TimbersFC) July 14, 2023
Valeri, 37, is the Timbers’ all-time chief in regular-season targets scored (86), assists (91) and factors (263). He was named the MLS Newcomer of the Yr in 2013, MLS Cup MVP in 2015 and Landon Donovan MLS MVP in 2017.
“It is just becoming that Diego Valeri will formally retire a Portland Timber,” proprietor Merritt Paulson stated.
“He gave a lot to our membership and we are able to by no means give again what he has given us. Will probably be wonderful for followers to have the chance to acknowledge Diego publicly Saturday once we induct him into the Ring of Honor.”