Colombian defender Eddie Segura joined LAFC as the Club's first new signing ahead of the 2019 season.The 21-year-old arrives in LA after captaining Atlético Huila to a fourth-placed finish last season.
Ahead of the Segura's arrival in LA, the defender spoke with LAFC.com about coming to MLS, what he brings to LAFC, and his goals ahead of next season:
Why is the move to LAFC the right one for you and your career?
“I think this is the right step for me and my family because it’s an exciting opportunity to grow and learn. I’m also very interested to play in MLS, which continues to progress and is constantly bringing in very quality players. I feel it’s a great situation for me and I’ll be in a beautiful city where I can continue to develop, not only on the pitch, but also on a personal level.”
When LAFC first contacted you, what did you know about the Club and MLS at the time?
“When the Club first got in touch with me, I had little knowledge of the Club but I did know that they had a fellow Colombian on the team in Eduard Atuesta. MLS is a league that has grown quite a lot, it’s extremely competitive and many players that come to the U.S. have many aspirations, and my hope is to give my best for LAFC. “
What are some of the attributes you will bring to the team?
“I think I’ll be able to provide the team security, I can be a good outlet from the back and I have a strong aerial game, both defensively and offensively. I’m also going to provide leadership, plenty of passion and commitment each and every game. “
Is there a player (past or present) you think resembles your playing style or one you try to play a similar style?
“Colombian players with whom I feel most identified are former international Iván Ramiro Córdoba and Davinson Sanchez. Like me, Córdoba was also not the tallest, but what he lacked in height, he made up in power and speed. I also admire Sanchez very much – I think we have similar strengths and we’re both very solid and safe in the back.”
Have you been to LA or USA? Other than soccer, what are you looking forward to in LA?
“So far, I have not had the opportunity to visit the United States. People have nothing but nice things to say about the city of Los Angeles and I’m very excited to live in that great country. I hope to make the most of it personally and professionally. I want to learn English quickly to be able to communicate with my teammates and in the community, which is the most important thing. I also just began my Business Administration degree and I hope that once I’m able to understand the language, I’ll have the chance to continue my studies.”
Moving to a different league and country is a big step, what excites you most about the challenge?
“There were a lot of emotions going through my head, but I’m very happy about this big step in my life. I will try to improve in all aspects of the game and continue to grow. I want to remain a great person and be able to help the Club as much as possible. I’m very excited to be part of LAFC and I hope that one day I’ll be part of its history by doing things well and helping the team.”
What are your goals for 2019 with LAFC?
“My goals for 2019 with the Club are to arrive in the best possible shape to be available to Coach. From there, I’ll try to earn my spot and prove why I was brought in to the team. Finally, I want to help my teammates achieve all the group’s objectives, which will be to finish near the top of the table and fight for titles. Personally, I always want to give my best, help the group and leave everything on the field. As a defender, I also want to contribute in the attack and hopefully score a few goals.”
