Minnesota United has announced a loan deal that will send Costa Rica international Johan Venegas to Deportivo Saprissa of the Primera División de Costa Rica for the 2018 MLS season.

Venegas, 29, featured in 22 matches –– starting 12 times –– for the Loons in 2017, scoring twice and assisting on five other occasions. He notched his first goal of the year in the team’s 4-2 victory over Real Salt Lake in April and struck the equalizer in a 2-2 draw at Houston Dynamo later that month.

“We think this is the best environment for Johan as he continues preparations for the World Cup,” said MNUFC Sporting Director Manny Lagos. “We hope he does well and has a successful World Cup.”

The midfielder is a mainstay with his national team, having scored nine goals in 44 appearances since making his senior debut in September 2014. His return to Costa Rica will be pivotal for his confidence ahead of a crucial year for Los Ticos as they prepare to face Brazil, Switzerland and Serbia in Group E of the 2018 FIFA World Cup in Russia.

Transaction: Minnesota United sends Costa Rica international Johan Venegas on loan to Deportivo Saprissa for one year.

VITALS

Johan Venegas

Position: Midfielder

Born: 11.27.1988 (29 years old)

Height: 6’0”

Weight: 168

Last Club: Minnesota United FC

Hometown: Puerto Limón, Costa Rica

Birthplace: Puerto Limón, Costa Rica

Citizenship: Costa Rica