OFFICIAL: Mexico Legend Marquez Joins New York Red Bulls

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Mexico's long-time captain signs on with New York outfit.
By Zac Lee Rigg
Aug 2, 2010 8:40:00 PM

The New York Red Bulls finally announced the signing of Rafael Marquez on its official site today. The club had openly been seeking a third designated player throughout the transfer window and landed upon the Mexican international.

Over the weekend, Marquez and Barcelona reached an agreement to terminate his contract, freeing up the central defender/midfielder to join Major League Soccer on a free transfer. The 31-year-old joins former Barca teammate Thierry Henry in the Red Bulls lineup.

“Rafael has shown on the club and international level that he is one of the world’s top players,” said Dietmar Beiersdorfer, head of Red Bull Global Soccer, in a press release. “He has been a winner at all levels and illustrated that he is a leader both on and off the field. We are thrilled that he decided to come to the Red Bulls at this time in his career.”

“I am excited to be joining the Red Bulls,” Marquez said. “Despite having the opportunity to fulfill my contract with Barcelona, coming to New York and playing in Major League Soccer was a chance that I could not refuse. I am completely committed to doing my very best to help the Red Bulls in their playoff push this year and compete for championships in the years to come.”

Marquez has spent the last decade playing in Europe. His performances for Atlas in the Mexican top division caught the eye of French club Monaco. The gritty defender then parlayed a transfer to Barcelona in 2003, where he won four La Liga titles.

In 2006 he partnered Carles Puyol in defense as the team won both the Spanish league and the Champions League, with Marquez's positioning and ability to play the ball out of the back taking a major role.

Internationally Marquez has captained Mexico since 2002 and has racked up 94 appearances. His trophy cabinet includes the 1999 Confederations Cup and the 2003 Gold Cup.

The Red Bulls will officially present Marquez Tuesday.



Source: Goal.com

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