Andrés Reyes: The Colombian Defender's Journey to San Diego FC
Andrés Felipe Reyes Ambuila is a commanding presence in professional football, known for his strength and versatility as a defender. Born on September 8, 1999, in Puerto Tejada, Colombia, Reyes has rapidly ascended from the youth academies of South America to become a key figure in Major League Soccer (MLS). Standing at 1.91 meters (6 ft 3 in), his physical profile makes him a formidable asset in the backline.
Currently playing for San Diego FC, Reyes has built a reputation for reliability and goal-scoring ability from the defensive position, having represented both his club teams and the Colombian national team with distinction.
ไม่มีภาพประกอบ
Key Facts
- Full Name: Andrés Felipe Reyes Ambuila
- Date of Birth: September 8, 1999
- Nationality: Colombian
- Current Club: San Diego FC (Jersey #4)
- Position: Defender
- Height: 1.91 m (6 ft 3 in)
Professional Club Career
Beginnings at Atlético Nacional
Reyes developed his skills within the youth system of his childhood club, Atlético Nacional. He made his professional debut on October 27, 2018, in a match against Once Caldas. His early promise was evident when he scored his first professional goal in 2019 during a 3–1 victory over Unión Magdalena.
Experience in the United States: Inter Miami and New York Red Bulls
In February 2020, Reyes moved to the United States on a year-long loan to join Inter Miami for their inaugural season. Despite a setback involving a facial fracture suffered against the Philadelphia Union, he appeared in 13 matches before returning to Colombia.
His career reached new heights on January 19, 2021, when he signed with the New York Red Bulls. Reyes made an immediate impact, scoring on his debut against the New England Revolution on May 22, 2021. Over the next several seasons, he became a mainstay in the starting eleven, contributing crucial goals and assists, including a pivotal assist in the Hudson River Derby against New York City FC.
One of the highlights of his tenure in New York occurred on November 30, 2024, when he scored a header from a set piece to secure a 1–0 victory over Orlando City SC, propelling the Red Bulls into the MLS Cup 2024.
Transition to San Diego FC
On December 12, 2024, Reyes was acquired by the expansion club San Diego FC. The transfer involved $800,000 in General Allocation Money (a mechanism used in MLS for player acquisitions) distributed across the 2025 and 2026 seasons, with the New York Red Bulls retaining a sell-on fee.
ไม่มีภาพประกอบ
International Career
Reyes has been a consistent representative of Colombia on the global stage. He was a vital part of the Colombia U20 squad during the 2019 FIFA U-20 World Cup, starting all five matches and scoring in the Round of 16 against New Zealand to help the team reach the quarter-finals.
His progression continued through the U23 level and eventually to the senior national team. On December 16, 2023, Reyes scored for the senior Colombia team in a friendly match against Mexico, which ended in a 3–2 victory.
Career Summary
| Category | Details |
|---|---|
| Youth Career | Atlético Nacional |
| Senior Clubs | Atlético Nacional, Inter Miami (loan), New York Red Bulls, San Diego FC |
| Total Club Apps/Goals | 136 Appearances / 7 Goals (approx.) |
| International Caps/Goals | 2 Senior Caps / 1 Goal (as of Dec 2023) |
| Notable Achievement | MLS Cup 2024 qualification goal |
Frequently Asked Questions
What is Andrés Reyes' current team?
Andrés Reyes currently plays as a defender for San Diego FC in Major League Soccer, wearing jersey number 4.
How did Reyes join San Diego FC?
He was acquired from the New York Red Bulls on December 12, 2024, in exchange for $800,000 in General Allocation Money spread over two seasons.
What was his role in the 2019 FIFA U-20 World Cup?
Reyes was an integral starter for Colombia, appearing in all five matches and scoring the team's only goal in a 1–1 draw against New Zealand in the Round of 16.
Has Andrés Reyes scored for the senior Colombian national team?
Yes, he scored a goal during a friendly match against Mexico on December 16, 2023.
Which clubs has Reyes played for in the United States?
Reyes has played for Inter Miami, the New York Red Bulls (including a stint with New York Red Bulls II), and San Diego FC.