Colorado Springs, CO (February 23, 2022) – The Colorado Springs Switchbacks FC announced Wednesday the acquisition of midfielder Haji Abdikadir, via trade from San Diego Loyal SC in exchange for current Switchbacks forward Thomas Amang. Per club policy, the details of the trade have not been made public and both are pending league and federation approval.
“Amang was very good for us last year and gave the team a real boost, it is unfortunate that we will have to line up against him because he has all the tools to produce a big season,” said Head Coach Brendan Burke. “It was a difficult decision as we rebalanced our roster heading into 2022 and we wish him great success with San Diego.” Coach Burke then spoke on his expectations of Abdikadir for the 2022 season, saying: “Haji is an exciting young prospect who will provide more depth for us in the center of midfield. I think he suits our style of play and my hope is that he can fight for minutes right off the bat.”
Abdikadir, 23, joined San Diego Loyal halfway through the 2021 season. With an 84.2% passing success rate Abdikadir utilized his brief time with the club to display a high potential style of play. Before his time in San Diego, the Nairobi native was a standout player for University of Louisville, where he notched a goal and three assists in his final season with the team. He collected a number of accolades in high school, including 2016-2017 All-USA Player of the Year honors and Gatorade Kentucky player of the year.
“I’ve been happy from the moment I found out I was going to join the team for the 2022 season. I’m here to learn and have to prove that I’m ready. I will give everything and try to enjoy my futbol. Let’s work SWITCHBACKS!”
Name: Haji Abdikadir
Position: Midfielder
Height: 5′ 11″
Weight: 156
Date of Birth: October 15, 1998
Age: 23
Hometown: Nairobi, Kenya
