A rising Colombian talent is set to transform San Diego FC’s MLS debut | OneFootball

San Diego FC have signed forward Tomás Ángel and a second-round pick in the 2025 MLS SuperDraft from LAFC. The Californian club paid $200,000 in 2025 General Allocation Money (GAM). The 21-year-old Colombian, who has a guaranteed contract until 2026 with an option for an additional year, is seen as an important addition to the attack of the new MLS franchise.

Talent runs in the family

The Ángel name carries significant weight in international soccer. Son of Juan Pablo Ángel, New York Red Bulls icon and established MLS figure, Tomás grew up with soccer in his veins. However, the young Colombian is forging his own path, showing that his family's talent remains relevant.

Before arriving in the United States, Ángel shone for Atlético Nacional, one of the most traditional Colombian clubs. He made 52 appearances between 2021 and 2024, scoring 8 goals and providing 2 assists. Tomás was an important part of the club's successful run: two Copa Colombia titles in 2021 and 2023, a Liga Colombiana championship in 2022, and a Supercopa title in 2023.

First steps in MLS and USL standout performance

Tomás Ángel joined LAFC at the beginning of 2024 and scored 2 goals in 7 appearances across all competitions. However, to gain more minutes and experience, the forward was loaned to Phoenix Rising FC, champions of the 2023 USL Championship.

In Phoenix, Ángel had a strong showing, scoring 6 goals in 15 games and helping the team reach the playoffs.

What does San Diego FC gain with Tomás Ángel?

As the sporting director of San Diego FC, Tyler Heaps put it best when he said: "Tommy is an exciting forward with a winning mentality who adds top-level qualities to our front line."

And he's not wrong. Ángel is an energetic forward, with good movement inside the box and a reliable finishing ability. He joins a team looking to build a strong identity in its inaugural MLS season.

Beyond his technical abilities, Ángel brings a competitive mentality shaped by international tournaments and Colombian soccer. He has represented the Colombian U-20 national team, including at the 2023 FIFA U-20 World Cup, where he scored 3 goals in 5 matches. In total, Ángel has 15 appearances and 5 goals for the Colombian U-20 team, which highlights his potential to continue growing in MLS.

San Diego FC's moment

San Diego FC will make its official debut in February 2025 against the LA Galaxy, the reigning MLS Cup champions. With little time to put together a competitive squad and define its style of play, the club under head coach Mikey Varas has added an important piece with the signing of Tomás Ángel.

Now, the young talented player is ready to show his skills for Varas and his technical staff. If used properly, Ángel can contribute with goals and become a symbol of San Diego FC's ambitious MLS project.