TRANSFER TRACKER: Signing
A preseason trial has resulted in Jimmy McLaughlin returning to FC Cincinnati for the 2020 MLS season, meaning a fifth season with the club awaits the midfielder.
McLaughlin, 26, was part of FC Cincy’s inaugural USL Championship season in 2016 before they joined MLS as an expansion side last year. He missed the club’s 2019 campaign due to a long-term ACL injury, so never got a taste of MLS action.
“Jimmy has shown his quality and has demonstrated a strong work rate on the pitch during preseason,” General Manager Gerard Nijkamp said. “He remained focused and put in the required work to get back to full health after a tough injury. We are excited for Jimmy to compete for our club on the pitch in 2020, he is a great representative of what it means to be part of FC Cincinnati.”
During the club’s USL days, he made 104 appearances (72 starts) and recorded 13 goals and 11 assists across all competitions. He’s also a former Homegrown Player for the Philadelphia Union, having spent the 2012-15 seasons there. The former Colgate University standout only made seven appearances with the Union, and instead found most of his playing time on loan at the Harrisburg City Islanders.
“It means the world to me just to be a part of this team,” McLaughlin said. “The last year has been a tough challenge mentally and physically. I want to thank the Lindner family, the entire ownership group, Jeff Berding, Gerard Nijkamp, the coaching staff, the medical staff and the players for their support and help in getting me back to this level. I love this team and I love this city and I’m excited for the 2020 season.”
McLaughlin’s addition gives FC Cincinnati nine midfielders ahead of the 2020 season. They’re currently laying the groundwork for the club’s March 1 opener at the New York Red Bulls.
