Are Awaziem and Murphy the answer to Colorado Rapids’ defensive struggles? | OneFootball

The Colorado Rapids announced the acquisition of Chidozie Awaziem and Ian Murphy, both from FC Cincinnati. In exchange, the Orange and Blue will receive up to $1.2 million in General Allocation Money (GAM), with $1 million guaranteed and $200,000 conditional on performance milestones, along with retaining a sell-on fee if either player is transferred internationally or traded within MLS.

Pádraig Smith, Rapids' president, was thrilled with the signings. We are very excited to welcome Chidozie and Ian to the Rapids. Chidozie is a leader and a powerful defender with a lot of experience in Europe and at the international level, while Ian has established himself as an athletic and talented defender in MLS. Both players fit our game model perfectly and add more quality to our group as we strive for a successful 2024 season and continue to strengthen our team.

The impact of Chidozie Awaziem

At 27, Chidozie Awaziem brings a rare profile to MLS—a center-back with international pedigree, combining physicality and tactical experience honed in Europe. Before joining FC Cincinnati last summer, Awaziem played for Boavista in Portugal's top division alongside Reggie Cannon, now also a Rapids player. The Nigerian defender made 14 appearances in all competitions for Cincinnati, recording three assists, which is quite impressive for a center-back. Awaziem's arrival adds an element of leadership and solidity to Colorado's backline.

Ian Murphy: youth and defensive solidity

Alongside Awaziem, 24-year-old Ian Murphy brings talent and consistency to the Rapids’ defense. Drafted in the 2022 MLS SuperDraft, Murphy has proven to be a reliable presence for FC Cincinnati, accumulating 80 MLS appearances with 1 goal and 1 assist. His steady performances, particularly during Cincinnati’s Supporters' Shield-winning 2023 season, showcased his ability to compete at the league’s highest level.

Murphy's athleticism and strong game-reading abilities make him a valuable asset for the Rapids. Along with Awaziem, he brings a mix of youthful energy and defensive solidity that Colorado so desperately needs. This combination of experience and youth could be the solution to addressing the defensive issues that hindered the team's performance in 2023.

The Colorado Rapids reached the 2024 Audi MLS Cup Playoffs, only to be eliminated in the first round. It was a disappointing result, yet one that woke them up for the necessary adjustments. Adding Awaziem and Murphy, the Rapids have taken an aggressive step toward not only getting back into the playoffs in 2024 but competing at a high level in the Concacaf Champions Cup.

Finishing 7th in the Western Conference, Colorado knows that building a reliable defense is the key to success. The addition of Awaziem and Murphy shows that the club is committed to solving its defensive woes and building a stronger foundation for the upcoming season.