LAFC announced today the signing of forward Rodolfo Zelaya via transfer from Alianza FC of El Salvador’s first division. Zelaya, who holds a green card and will not occupy an international slot, will be added to LAFC’s roster pending receipt of his International Transfer Certificate (ITC).
“We’re pleased to secure a player of Rodolfo’s quality as we continue our preparations for the 2019 season,” said General Manager and EVP of Soccer Operations John Thorrington. “Rodolfo is a proven goalscorer, both at the club and international levels, and he will add another dimension to our attack. Along with our supporters, we are excited to welcome him to Los Angeles and integrating him to the group as soon as possible.”
Zelaya, 30, arrives in Los Angeles after helping Alianza FC to four league titles from 2014-18. During the Clausura 2018, Zelaya finished sixth with 10 goals in 21 matches, while captaining the team to its 13th league title.
Since rejoining Alianza in 2014, Zelaya scored 82 goals in 178 matches across all competitions, including 29 goals in 2017/18. He is Alianza’s all-time leading goalscorer with 122, and has also won the league’s golden boot on three different occasions.
LAFC vs Vissel Kobe | 1/31/19
Zelaya began his professional career with A.D.I. Intipucá in 2006, notching 19 goals in 31 games. A year later, he would tally 8 goals in 17 matches for CD Chalatenango before joining Alianza for the first time in 2008. Oversees, Zelaya enjoyed stints with Mexico’s Club Leon (2009-10) and Russia’s FC Alania Vladikavkaz (2011-12 & 2013).
Following his national team debut on May 30, 2008, Zelaya has earned 44 caps (36 starts) for El Salvador. The center forward has tallied 21 goals across all competitions, including 9 goals at four different Concacaf Gold Cups.
TRANSACTION: LAFC signs forward Rodolfo Zelaya to a two-year contract. Zelaya will be added to the Club’s roster pending receipt of his International Transfer Certificate (ITC).
