February 1, 2023 – United Soccer League One (USL1) – Chattanooga Red Wolves SC News Release
The Chattanooga Red Wolves are pleased to announce the signing of defender Manuel Madrid for the 2023 USL League One season. Transaction pending league and federation approval.
Manuel Madrid, a Mexican national from Chihuahua, is a center-back who comes to the Red Wolves with an expansive career at the club level. Madrid started his career with Liga Mx giants Cruz Azul FC, where he was a part of the side that won the CONCACAF Champions League in 2014. He then spent the next six seasons of his club career in the second tier of Mexican soccer, the Liga de Expansión, formerly known as the Ascenso Mx.
He played for Cruz Azul Hidalgo, Loros de Colima, Leones Negros de UDG, Tampico Madero FC and Mineros FC over his 6-year spell in the Mexican second division. Madrid spent last season with USL Championship side Phoenix Rising before eventually making the switch to Chattanooga.
Now 29, Madrid comes to the Red Wolves with 163 appearances at the club level and over 11,800 minutes of game time. He has scored 9 goals in his career, and at 6’3 provides an imposing figure at center-back for opposing attackers. Head Coach Ziggy Korytoski said that the addition of Manuel, “provides experience and leadership to the back line. He’s comfortable on the ball and is excellent in the air. He’s a veteran player who will be extremely important to our locker room and culture.”
Manuel said that “I had a call with coach Ziggy, and he let me know that he wanted me to come to the club. I didn’t hesitate to accept the invitation, because I know what this club means, and I want to fight for a position and help the team win a championship.” On his goals for the 2023 season, Madrid emphasized, “First and most importantly I have come to contribute to the team and give my best. I know that if we go one step at a time and achieve our goals that a championship can come this season.”
Club President and General Manager Sean McDaniel emphasized the club’s excitement of securing Madrid’s signature saying, “Manuel carries on the tradition of top-rated center backs that have played for Red Wolves. His professional experience combined with his size and strength should solidify the foundation of our backline heading into the new season. We feel like we have found the next generation of defenders for the club in Manuel.”
The signing continues what has been a busy offseason for the club in building a roster…