MLS Ticker: Timbers sell Chara, Palacios joins Corinthians, and more

Feb 26, 2022; Portland, Oregon, USA; Portland Timbers forward Yimmi Chara (23) controls a pass during the second half against the New England Revolution at Providence Park. The game ended in a tie 2-2. Mandatory Credit: Troy Wayrynen-USA TODAY Sports

Diego Palacios’ time with Los Angeles FC has come to its end after four seasons.

Palacios has joined Brazilian Serie A Corinthians after becoming a free agent at the conclusion of the 2023 MLS season. Corinthians announced the signing on Tuesday. ending Palacios’ four-season spell in MLS.

The Ecuador international joined LAFC in August 2019 from his native SD Aucas. He made 102 regular-season appearances for the Western Conference club, lifting MLS Cup and the Supporters’ Shield in 2022.

He scored one goal and added 12 assists over that span.

LAFC has now lost both Palacios and Giorgio Chiellini this winter, opening two major holes in its backline. Ryan Hollingshead and Sergi Palencia head into preseason as LAFC’s top-two fullbacks.

Here is a closer look at all of the recent MLS News:

Timbers sell Yimmi Chara to Junior FC

Yimmi Chara was also on the move on Tuesday, returning to his native Colombia.

The Portland Timbers sold Chara to Junior FC in Colombia, ending his four-year stay in Oregon. Chara, 32, joined the Timbers in 2020 as a Designated Player signing and made 102 regular-season appearances over four years.

He totaled 15 goals and 29 assists with the Timbers, helping Portland win the 2020 MLS is Back Tournament and also reach MLS Cup in 2021.

“We would like to thank Yimmi for his contributions and commitment to the club over the past four seasons. He has been a true professional during his time in Portland,” said Timbers General Manager Ned Grabavoy. “We wish him all the best with the opportunity to return to a club he has a history with and reuniting with his family.”

Chara returns to his native Colombia, where he previously played for Deportes Tolima and Junior FC.

Revs re-sign veteran midfielder Ema Boateng

Veteran help is returning to the New England Revolution’s midfield.

Emmanuel Boateng has rejoined the Revs on a one-year deal through 2024, New England announced Tuesday. Boateng’s contract also includes a one-year option for 2025 and he will occupy a supplemental roster slot for the upcoming season.

“Ema Boateng has been an important contributor to our attack and has been a productive player in our league throughout his entire career,” Revolution Sporting Director Curt Onalfo said. “We are pleased to have Ema return to the club and look forward to seeing him on the field with the rest of the team as we get preseason training underway this month.”

Boateng has collected six goals and 10 assists over 66 league appearances since joining the Revs in 2021. Prior to his move to New England, Boateng featured under new Revs head coach Caleb Porter during the Columbus Crew’s MLS Cup-winning season in 2020.

In total, Boateng has recorded 15 goals and 24 assists in 187 career regular season appearances.

Rapids waive Nicholson, Wilson ahead of 2024 campaign

The Colorado Rapids parted ways with two veteran players on Tuesday.

Defender Danny Wilson and winger Sam Nicholson will be on the move this winter, the Rapids announced. Both players were under contract for 2024, but instead will be seeking new opportunities elsewhere.

Wilson, 32, joined the Rapids ahead of the 2018 season from Scottish giants Rangers. The center back made 136 regular season appearances for the Rapids, scoring five goals and adding seven assists over six seasons with the club. 

The 28-year-old Nicholson rejoined the Rapids in 2022 after a two-season spell with Bristol Rovers in England. Nicholson previously spent three seasons with the Rapids from May 2018 to July 2020.

He totaled six goals and adding eight assists across 85 regular-season appearances.

The Rapids are under new leadership with Chris Armas coming in as head coach.

Quick Kicks:

• Gabriel Pirani has made a permanent move to Eastern Conference club DC United, the club announced Tuesday. Pirani, who joined last season on loan from Santos FC, scored one goal in 10 MLS appearances. His contract will run through 2025 and includes options for 2026 and 2027.