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Feb. 15, 2008
CONDE TO LEAVE?
Defender Looks to New York, Fire Says No
Kathryn L. Knapp
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Fire defender Wilman Conde wants to follow coach Juan Carlos Osorio to New York for the coming MLS season.
Linda Cuttone/Sports Vue Images |
When defender Wilman Conde came to the Chicago Fire, he came to play for Coach Juan Carlos Osorio. Once Osorio left in December to join the New York Red Bulls, many wondered what would happen with the Colombian International. Two months later, it seems Conde wants to move on.
“As you may recall, it was through Juan Carlos Osorio that I came to the MLS, and the Chicago Fire particularly,” Conde said via email. “That is why I want you to know that I wish to continue to work with him and rejoin him with his new team, the New York Red Bulls. The Chicago Fire is a great institution but my interests and desires are no longer with this team. It is a difficult situation but it is my desire to pursue my career with the New York Red Bulls starting this season.”
After Osorio’s departure, Fire President/General Manager John Guppy stated that Conde was under contract and would not be going anywhere. Things are no different now.
“We are aware of Wilman’s interest to play in New York however, Wilman is under contract with the Chicago Fire and we do expect him to perform all of his obligations in a professional manner," Guppy said. "As always, the interests of the Chicago Fire are paramount in all player decisions."
Conde played under Osorio at Millionarios and then rejoined him in Chicago. And now, it appears he’s looking to be traded to New York. It’s no surprise. But if the deal happens, what will Chicago get in return?
During his six months with Chicago, Conde started and played in seven regular-season and three post-season games. He helped the Fire secure its backline, while registering an assist and producing a few other attempts. The 25-year-old defender brought strength and height to the back line, standing at 6’2” and weighing in at 180.
As with all situations, if Conde leaves, there is both a down side and a plus side. On the down side, the Fire will lose a promising young defender. On the plus side, an International spot will reopen.
Conde earned $151,000 last year, according to the MLS players union.
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