Midfielder Junior Burgos has joined the Tampa Bay Rowdies on a season-long loan from Major League Soccer’s Atlanta United, the club announced today. Per club and league policy, further details were not disclosed.
Burgos has reported to Tampa Bay and continues to train with the Rowdies in preparation for the 2016 North American Soccer League (NASL) season.
The 27-year old midfielder arrives with experience in each of the three top leagues in the United States and Canada, as well as professional experience abroad and six caps for the El Salvador National Team.
“Junior is a very good addition to our team,” Tampa Bay Rowdies Head Coach Stuart Campbell said. “I’ve known him for the last few years. He had a great season last year with the Atlanta Silverbacks. He’s another great attacking player we have on our team now. He’s a fantastic midfield player that’s comfortable playing as a No. 10 beneath strikers.”
Burgos debuted in the NASL with the Atlanta Silverbacks in 2014, scoring three goals and tallying two assists in just 844 minutes of league play. In Atlanta’s run to the quarterfinals of the U.S. Open Cup that season, Burgos scored three goals and recorded three assists in four matches.
“Tampa Bay was in the final stages of completing a deal for Junior so we’re pleased that we were able to work with them to acquire his rights for 2017,” said Atlanta United technical director Carlos Bocanegra. “He’ll see quality playing time while on loan this season and we look forward to monitoring him.”
After starting 2015 with the USL’s Orange County Blues, Burgos re-signed with the Silverbacks in July of last year and quickly established himself again as one of the top players in the NASL. In 17 games with Atlanta last season, Burgos scored four goals and recorded six assists. His free kick goal against the San Antonio Scorpions on August 8 was voted by fans as the Goal of the Year in the NASL.
Burgos will wear the No. 33 jersey this season.
The Tampa Bay Rowdies will open their 2016 Preseason with a match against Major League Soccer’s D.C. United on Saturday, February 13 at Al Lang Stadium. Tickets to the match are free for 2016 Rowdies Season Ticket Holders
