The Philadelphia Union received allocation money, targeted allocation money, and the Dynamo’s 6th overall pick in the fast-approaching MLS Superdraft in exchange for Midfielders Christian Maidana and Andrew Wenger.
Chris Albright, the Union technical director explained: “We set out this offseason with a clear direction and this helps us start that process. We greatly value the increased cap flexibility, as well as the opportunity to have two high picks in the upcoming draft, increasing our ability to re-shape the roster.”
Dynamo VP/general manager Matt Jordan explained his perspective: “At the conclusion of last season we had two specific goals we wanted to address this offseason. First, we felt it was important to add more creativity and quality in the final third of the field. Second, we wanted more dynamic pace and power in the wide areas. The acquisition of these two players strengthens our group and helps us meet these objectives in preparation for next season.”
Maidana, 28, had 15 assists in 2015, just one behind the league leader Sebastian Giovinco. Over the last two years Maidana has led the league with a combined 26 assists. He was added as a designated player by Philadelphia in 2014.
“Cristian is a player with tremendous ability who can see a pass and open up defenses as his assists show, and we feel he is coming into the prime of his career and can add more quality to our group,” Dynamo head coach Owen Coyle said in a club press release.
Wenger, 25, was acquired by the Union in 2014 from the Montreal Impact, who had selected him 1st overall in the 2012 Superdraft. Wenger hit the ground running in Philadelphia, scoring in his debut in a 2-2 draw against Real Salt Lake on April 14. In 2014 Wenger scored 6 and assisted 4 goals, both a career high. He had 7 goals and 6 assists during his time in Philadelphia.
“Andrew is a young player with tremendous pace and power who we feel has the capacity to fulfill all his undoubted ability and potential and again add to our talented squad.” Said Coach Owen Coyle in the same press release.
