American Exports: Ex-US U-23 Acuna headed to Atlante

Isaac Acuna del Club America con los medios de prensa

GUADALAJARA, Mexico – Former US Under-23 international Isaac Acuña will play at Atlante next season, after leaving Club América.


The Calexico, Calif.-born forward was loaned out to Mérida last season in Mexico’s second division and arrives back in the top flight following an exchange deal between América and Atlante. Paraguayan Osvaldo Martinez headed in the opposition direction to the Águilas.


“I’m happy and content,” Acuña told MLSsoccer.com by phone from Cancún on his return to the Liga MX. “I’m ready to show the coaching staff what I’m capable of, give 100 percent and contribute to the team.”


Acuña joins Texan forward Sonny Guadarrama at the Potros, who finished last season’s Apertura championship three points outside the playoff places.


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Atlante will be the fourth team Acuña has played for in Mexico, after appearing for America, Querétaro and Mérida.


The move also means Acuña will be working with vastly experienced Argentine coach Ricardo La Volpe, something which the American is looking forward to.


“It’s an honor and a privilege,” gushed the 23-year-old. “I’m going to try to take in everything he tells and shows me to improve as a football player.”


Atlante kick off the Clausura 2013 on Jan. 5 at Puebla.


Tom Marshall covers Americans playing in Latin America for MLSsoccer.com. Contact him at tom.marshall.mex@gmail.com.