Colorado Rapids have confirmed the signing of US men’s national team full-back Sam Vines from Belgian Pro League side Royal Antwerp.
Vines returns to his homeland on a four-year deal through the 2027 campaign with an option for 2028.
The 24-year-old’s professional career began in the United States back in 2017 with Charlotte Independence in the United Soccer League (USL), where he managed 30 appearances before signing for the Rapids in February 2018.
“We are incredibly happy to bring Sam back home to the Rapids. He is an exceptional player, who has gained valuable experience abroad in Europe, and we’re thrilled to add his talents to our group,” said Colorado president Padraig Smith in a release.
“His career progression and success at both club and international levels are a testament to his quality, hard work and the investment our club has made in developing young local players and our ‘Drive to Youth’ philosophy.”
During his first stint with the Western Conference side, Vines registered two goals and four assists in 55 showings across all competitions from early 2018 to July 2021, when he departed for Europe to sign for Antwerp.
Vines returns to Dick’s Sporting Goods park with winning mentality — as he lifted three trophies in the form of the First Division A title and Belgian Cup in 2022/23 as well as Belgian Super Cup prior to the start of the current season. In total, Vines suited up for Antwerp 58 times, notching two goals and two assists.
The Colorado Springs native has represented the USMNT nine times at the international level and was part of the squad that lifted the 2021 Gold Cup.
Colorado continue to be active in the winter transfer window, as they’ve already brought in the likes of Zack Steffen, Djordje Mihailovic, Miguel Navarro and Jasper Loffelsend.
The Rapids are set to kick-off their 2024 MLS season on February 24 on the road against Portland Timbers at Providence Park, as two first-year head coaches in Phil Neville and Chris Armas will take the touchline for the first time with their new clubs.
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