Colorado Rapids announce signing of Ali Fadal from Valencia in Spain

The Colorado Rapids have announced they have signed midfielder Ali Fadal to a two-year contract through the 2026 season, with club options for the 2027 and 2028 seasons.

The 21-year-old joins the Western Conference side from La Liga outfit Valencia CF Mestalla (Valencia B) where he recorded 31 appearances, while notching one assist in Spain’s Segunda Federacion after joining the team in 2023.

“We’re thrilled to welcome Ali to the Colorado Rapids,” said Fran Taylor, Colorado Rapids Sporting Director. “Ali is a dynamic player who has gained valuable experience in one of Europe’s most respected development systems. We look forward to helping him grow as a player and seeing him make an impact in Major League Soccer.”

The Rapids have had a busy offseason, with manager Chris Armas looking to bolster their roster ahead of the 2025 campaign.

The Western Conference side has added, in addition to Fadal, central defender duo Chidozie Awaziem and Ian Murphy -- whom they traded for from FC Cincinnati -- as well as Sam Bassett, younger brother of senior team star Cole Bassett, as their newest Homegrown signing.

Fadal, meanwhile, already has experience playing in the U.S., having previously spent part of his youth career in the United States at The Soccer Institute of Montverde Academy in Florida.

On Dec. 5, 2023, Fadal made his senior debut for Valencia in the Copa del Rey against Rosa FC after being subbed on in the 70th minute.

Colorado are competing in the 2025 CONCACAF Champions Cup, and begin their contintenal journey in the competition on Feb. 18 against fellow MLS side LAFC. Leg 1 of their series will be in Colorado, while the second match will be played in Los Angeles.