CF Montreal And D.C. United Swap Aaron Herrera And Ruan

CF Montreal and D.C. United have traded right-backs to start the off-season. CF Montreal sent Aaron Herrera to D.C. United in exchange for Ruan and $500,000 in GAM. This looks to be a bit of a cleaning house for both sides as they are aiming to build a strong roster base for whoever is named Manager for both sides. 

Let’s start with D.C. United and their new right-back Aaron Herrera. The 26 year old Guatemalan international defender will now join his 3rd MLS team in his career. In his career he’s played in 164 career games between Real Salt Lake, CF Montreal, and the Real Monarchs. His best seasons within MLS I would argue came during his time at RSL where he was pushing for U.S. Men’s National Team interest at that time. He has 2 goals and 22 career assists to his name, and I don’t think many can doubt a ton of talent at the MLS level. To me, his time in Montreal never seemed to click so I am in favor of this change of scenery move for him. If D.C. can unlock and get somewhat of the “RSL version” of Herrera, they should have a major addition to their side for 2024.

Now the other side, Ruan heading to CF Montreal. I mean it’s almost a similar thought pattern to Aaron Herrera. A once regarded high end MLS fullback at his old club. Then he made the move to another MLS side and things just never seemed to click for him. Ruan was an absolute baller for Orlando City, and even helped them win their first ever title with the 2022 U.S. Open Cup. He made the move to D.C. in 2023 and was never really given a shot at consistent minutes or action. The 28 year old has logged over 11,000 minutes within MLS and in those games scoring 4 goals with 21 assists as well. The quality of Ruan is there, I am hoping for his career that a move up to Montreal is the needed change to show his high level MLS ability once again. Also, the $500,000 in GAM that Montreal got as part of the deal is a major help as well.