Philadelphia Union announced Monday that it has acquired 25-year-old forward C.J. Sapong from Sporting Kansas City in exchange for the Union's highest overall pick in the 2015 MLS SuperDraft.
A native of Manassas, Va., and former player for Union developmental affiliate Reading United, Sapong tallied 20 goals and nine assists in four seasons for Sporting Kansas City. SKC also recorded an impressive 19-0-2 record (including playoffs) when Sapong scored.
Sapong has played in 10 playoff games, including appearing in all five matches en route to capturing the 2013 MLS Cup.
"We are thrilled to add a player of C.J.’s caliber to our roster," said Union technical director Chris Albright. "C.J. is one of the most dynamic and versatile forwards in our league and he understands what it takes to win an MLS Championship. He will be an important part of our team moving forward.”
Drafted in the first round of the 2011 MLS SuperDraft out of James Madison University, Sapong was named the 2011 MLS Rookie of the Year with five goals and five assists in his first professional season and scored in the 2011 MLS Cup Playoffs.
Sapong followed up his rookie campaign by tying for the team lead with nine goals in 2012 after debuting for the U.S. Men’s National Team in January 2012.
