After two weeks of speculation, rumors, hunting over the internet, the fate of Mauro Diaz was made known a little after 2:00pm: Mauro Diaz had been transferred to Shabab Al-Ahli Dubai FC of the UAE Arabian Gulf League.
“I know this may not be the most ideal time to say goodbye, especially in a season in which we are doing so well but, this is a great opportunity for my family and for me,” Diaz said. “I will always be thankful for everything. I want you to know you will always be in my heart.”
Mauro Diaz was playing in his 6th season with FC Dallas after arriving at the club in the summer of 2013. Diaz quickly broke out as the team’s go-to playmaker pulling the strings from the center and dictating the attack. While his time at Dallas was plagued with injury at times, he always was the magic unicorn (as affectionally known by the fans) that dazzle the crowd with a sublime pass or fancy footwork.
Not only was his visually remarkable but the stats back it up as well. He had 127 appearances with FC Dallas, scored 90 goals, 49 assists, was the 2016 MLS Best XI, 2016 MLS Supporters Shield Winner, 2016 Lamar Hunt US Open Cup Best Player, and 2015 MLS MVP Runner-Up. Those are just a few of his accomplishments during his time here at FCD (stats pulled from fcdallas.com).
Mauro never was one to be vocal off the pitch as he let his play do all the talking for him. Mauro was a constant threat to the opposition as many feared was Diaz go do with the ball. Mauro truly will go down as one of the FC Dallas Legends.
While some are glad the “Mauro Project” is over, it is hard to ignore the impact that he had on FC Dallas. He helped and guided the team to being of the most feared over the past 3 years and brought a new life to the team. Diaz had been FC Dallas through and through and all he has done for the team is appreciated.
A message from Mauro: "To the fans, thank you for your unconditional support all these years. You guys made me feel at home." #ThankYouMauro. #GraciasMauro pic.twitter.com/zaCtiQWRsX
— FC Dallas (@FCDallas) July 3, 2018
Muchas gracias Mauro Diaz y la mejor de las suertes para ti y a tu futuro.
