Carlos Valderrama may always be remembered for his unruly hair, but his play on the field will not be soon forgotten either.
Valderrama began his MLS career with the Tampa Bay Mutiny when the league started in 1996. He was named the league’s first Most Valuable Player in 1996 when he found the back of the net 4 times and had 17 assists.
After two seasons in Tampa Bay, Valderrama was traded to the Miami Fusion before eventually returning back to the Mutiny in 1999. In 2000, he led the league in assists when he recorded 26. He is currently second all-time in MLS assists with 114
In 2005, Valderrama was named to the MLS All-Time Best XI.
OTHER:
Valderrama made a name for himself in the soccer world well before MLS was formed. He had been a standout in his native Colombia since he began playing professionally in 1981.
Carlos Valderrama is one of the best players to every play for Colombia. He is the all-time leader in caps, 111, and scored 11 goals in his 13 seasons playing for his country.
HONORS/CAREER STATISTICS:
MLS MVP: 1996
MLS All-Time Best XI
2nd all-time in MLS assists
MLS appearances: 175
MLS goals: 16
MLS assists: 114
Colombian National Team caps: 111
Colombian National Team goals: 11
