Forward Madison FC has signed 27-year-old left back Christian “Pato” Diaz to its inaugural season roster, the club announced Sunday at a gathering with fans at Blue Agave Mexican Restaurant. Diaz brings experience in Liga MX (the top soccer league in Mexico) to Madison, having played in it for both Atlas FC and Leones Negros.

Diaz, who was born in Guadalajara but spent much of his youth in California, said the opportunity to return to the United States was too good to pass up.

“I was really looking to play over here,” Diaz said. “I’m really happy that I’ve signed. This is a great opportunity that the coaches have given me.”

According to Head Coach Daryl Shore, Diaz’s signing is not only a coup for the club, but also shows Forward Madison’s commitment to bringing in players that fans can relate to.

“It’s a testament to our organization, because when you sign a player of Christian’s pedigree, it blends in right away with our Latino community in Madison,” Shore said. “Fans who are familiar with Mexican soccer will understand where Christian came from, that he’s played in tough games in Mexico and that he’s going to bring that experience to Forward Madison.”

Although Diaz will mostly play as an outside back, Shore said he’s counting on his new addition to get forward and contribute on both sides of the field. According to Diaz, he fits in well with an attack-minded system.

“Coach Shore wants a really offensive team, and having the ball, passing the ball around, that’s my style,” Diaz said. “How I started my career was more offensive - I was a winger. I can defend, but when I get the ball I can attack well.”

For Shore, who has already brought in players with experience playing in countries such as Brazil, Ecuador and Panama, Diaz adds yet another element to the squad.

“Having a player who’s played in Mexico adds to the diversity of experience on our team, so Christian brings something unique,” Shore said. “He’s a great addition to our roster.”

Pato’s signing will be confirmed pending league and federation approval. Follow Pato on Instagram at @christianpatodiaz and on Twitter at @Cpato_Diaz.

Forward Madison FC’s inaugural season is nearly here! The team will kick off its first-ever game on April 6, and open at home on April 27 vs Greenville Triumph SC. Get tickets to see Pato and the rest of the team in Forward Madison’s inaugural season at: https://www.forwardmadisonfc.com/tickets.