Real Salt Lake has announced the addition of 22-year-old Colombian centerback Juan Jose Arias on loan from Atlético Nacional to fill an open U-22 roster slot for the 2026 Major League Soccer campaign. The loan deal, pending processing of Arias’s International Transfer Certificate (ITC) and P-1 visa, runs through July 13, 2026, with an option for RSL to make the transfer permanent.
Juan Jose Arias Prepares to Join RSL’s Young Talent Core
Born on January 8, 2004, Arias, nicknamed “el Cuñado,” began his professional journey with Atlético Nacional in February 2022 at age 18. Since then, he has made 74 appearances in all competitions and contributed to the Colombian powerhouse’s haul of five domestic trophies, including league titles in the 2022 Apertura and 2024 Clausura, the 2023 Superliga, and Copa Colombia victories in 2023 and 2024. Standing six feet tall, the centerback brings size and experience to RSL’s defensive line.
Juan Jose Arias recently celebrated his 22nd birthday and will join a strong group of U-22 players for RSL’s 2026 season, alongside midfielder Diego Luna, winger Dominik Marczuk, and forward Ari Piol.
“I’m very happy to be here in Salt Lake, a beautiful city and a club that has everything I need to develop my potential,” said Arias. “I’m very eager to wear this jersey and play for this Club. Also, I’d like to extend my greetings to the fans, as I hope to see you all very soon at the stadium!”
Club Officials Highlight Arias’s Impact on Defensive Depth
Kurt Schmid, Real Salt Lake’s Chief Soccer Officer, emphasized the significance of this signing on the club’s defensive capabilities. Speaking from Palm Springs, California, where RSL recently drew 1-1 against Orange County SC, Schmid noted Arias’s growth and potential.
“Juan Jose strengthens both the depth and competitive quality of our defensive unit,” said Schmid. “His consistent development and maturity during his time at Nacional have positioned him as an ideal fit for our U22 roster spot. We’re excited to see him compete at the highest level throughout this 2026 season, hopefully establishing himself as a long-term contributor to our Club.”
Colombian Legacy Continues at Real Salt Lake
Arias becomes the eighth Colombian to join Real Salt Lake since the club’s inception in 2005 and the second player sourced from Atlético Nacional, following midfielder Nelson Palacio, who is currently on loan to FC Zurich. The club has welcomed several impactful Colombian players over the years, including defender Brayan Vera, striker Chicho Arango, and winger Andrés Gómez, all of whom featured prominently during the current Pablo Mastroeni coaching era.
Other notable Colombian names in RSL history include forward Olmes Garcia and midfielder Sebastian Velasquez. Additionally, Jamison Olave, RSL’s first Colombian player and later a long-serving club coach, scored 16 goals in 190 appearances from 2008 to 2016, cementing the country’s influence on the club.
RSL’s Preseason Preparations and Upcoming Fixtures
After completing a portion of their 2024 preseason in Lagos, Portugal, Real Salt Lake returned to Utah briefly before moving on to Southern California for the final phase of preseason. The team has played four games since mid-January, with three matches in the Atlantic Cup tournament held in southern Portugal. RSL secured victories against Danish SuperLiga teams Randers FC and Brøndby IF, featuring goals from Dominik Marczuk, Tyler Wolff, trialist players, and Alex Katranis.
U.S. World Cup hopeful Diego Luna provided multiple assists during the early preseason, while contributions from Noel Caliskan and Sam Junqua also bolstered the offense. RSL’s preseason concluded last week with a competitive match against fellow MLS Western Conference club FC Dallas, which ended in a 0-2 loss over 90 minutes and a 1-1 draw in an additional 45-minute period.
Currently, RSL is rounding out their preseason schedule in Southern California, where they earned a 1-1 draw against Orange County SC, formerly represented by defender Kobi Henry. Goals and roster contributions from players such as Zavier Gozo, Victor Olatunji, Ari Piol, Stijn Spierings, Sergi Solans, Morgan Guilavogui, and the newly signed Juan Jose Arias are expected to be pivotal as RSL refines its lineup before the official season launch.
Real Salt Lake Sets Sights on 2026 MLS Campaign
The club’s 2026 MLS season will kick off on February 21 at B.C. Place against the reigning Western Conference champion, Vancouver Whitecaps FC. RSL’s home opener is scheduled for February 28 at America First Field, where they will take on longtime rivals Seattle Sounders FC. Both matches are slated to begin at 5:30 p.m. Mountain Time.
Tickets for individual games and season packages are currently available for purchase, offering fans a chance to witness RSL’s pursuit of success in the upcoming competitive season.
