The Complete Player
Hispanics inspired generations of tremendous talent along with ability. Playing the game with pure joy, flair & happiness, they deserve to be celebrated. On this month especially, recognition of contribution should be at an all time high.
With the World Cup in Qatar rapidly approaching this November, let’s have a look back at one of the most electrifying players in MLS history. Arguably the greatest player to ever grace the league, Bolivian International, Jaime Moreno. The 5’10 forward played an astonishing 15 years, starting nearly 300 games. Having a quick stint at New York Red Bulls in ’03. Moreno played the majority of his career (14 years) in the Nation’s Capital, Washington DC for DC United.
According to a list of the top 25 players to ever play in the MLS by Bleacher Report in 2011, Jamie Moreno reigned at the very top. A pioneer in every aspect, the Bolivian superstar was the first player ever to reach 100 goals scored & also 100 assists. Recording double-digit goals for 7 seasons and double-digit assists for another 5, his game was incredibly rounded.
Golden Era:
His time at DC United marked their most successful period. Alongside generational players, Raul Diaz Arce, Eddie Pope, Jeff Agoos & fellow countrymen Marco Etcheverry, Moreno spearheaded United. Capturing 4 MLS Cups during his time including 3 in 4 years (96’,97’,99), DC United was a juggernaut in the late ’90s. Bruce Arena guided the team to numerous titles while Head Coach, including the U.S Open Cup & CONCACAF Champions Cup.
On top of sustainable team success, Jaime was a seven time All-Star, plus a part of the MLS Best XI (97’,99’,04’,05’). Unprecedented natural ability, the Bolivian International even won the 1997 Golden Boot scoring 16 goals in 20 games, highlighting his predator instinct. The DC United/Jaime Moreno marriage produced some of the greatest triumphs in the clubs history. He helped ignite the club to immediate success, and will always be synonymous with the Nation’s Capital. Forever etched in the club’s archives, his 133 goals remain the most scored for DC United.
Post-Career
To honor his array of achievements, Jaime Moreno was inducted into the National Soccer Hall of Fame in 2021. DC United also inducted him into their own Hall of Fame in 2013, at their former home of RFK Stadium. Still currently having ties to the DMV area, Moreno with his family resides in Loudoun County, Virginia. Previously trying his hand at managing, maybe the time will come for him to once again return. Maybe not but one thing’s for sure, the door will remain always open.
