MEDIA CONTACT

Jessica Campbell

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NEW MEXICO UNITED’S ROSTER CONTINUES TO GROW WITH THE ADDITION OF ROOKIE MIDFIELDER

Joris Ahlinvi Heads to New Mexico, Less Than a Month Until First Kickoff of 2020

(February 13, 2020) ALBUQUERQUE, NM - New Mexico United announced today another new player signing. Joris Ahlinvi (pronounced juh-REESE AH-lin-vee), midfielder, is the 23rd rostered player for the 2020 season, pending league and federation approval.

Prior 2020 roster announcements from New Mexico United included 15 returning players from the inaugural season, plus the additions of defender Kalen Ryden and David Najem, goalkeeper Philipp Beigl, and forwards Amando Moreno, Romeo Parkes, and Samson Sergi. Midfielder Andrew Tinari was announced late last week.

Ahlinvi is originally from Bordeaux, France, and began his collegiate career at Florida International University. From 2016-2018, Ahlinvi saw 47 appearances (43 starts), 16 goals and 9 assists.

“Joris is a creative, attacking-minded player that understands how to unbalance the opponent. He's very comfortable in 1v1 situations, but also has an ability to combine and bring his teammates into the match,” said Head Coach Troy Lesesne. “I'm looking forward to working with him and seeing him develop in our club during his rookie season.”

At FIU, Ahlinvi received numerous accolades, including being named to the All-C-USA First-Team twice, the All-Southeast Region First-Team, and ranked 3rd in C-USA in total assists and assists-per-game in 2017.

“I am very excited and honored to join the New Mexico United family. Ever since Coach Lesesne contacted me, I felt like this club, because of its values and its culture, was the right choice for my future. I have been looking forward to coming here, meeting my teammates and discovering the environment. I am absolutely buzzing and proud to have signed my first professional contract in such a big club with the most amazing fans in the league,” said Joris Ahlinvi. “I am coming here with a lot of objectives, with the perspective to have a significant impact in this team but also to amaze and make our fans proud. I cannot wait to get started and win games!”

Ahlinvi spent the 2019 season with Indiana University where he made 10 appearances (6 starts) and scored 2 goals. He was drafted 53rd overall in the 2020 MLS SuperDraft by FC Cincinnati.

Ahlinvi’s media availability will begin immediately.

For promotional imagery of Joris, please click here.

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About New Mexico United

New Mexico United, the state’s first professional soccer franchise, brings the most popular sport in the world home to the Land of Enchantment. Fueled by a passion for community, New Mexico United’s promise is to provide a platform that brings New Mexicans together for a unique sporting experience, celebrating the unity and excitement inherent in world-class soccer.

www.newmexicoutd.com

About USL

The United Soccer League (USL) is one of the most successful professional soccer leagues in the world, reaching a population of more than 84 million and fueling the growth of the game across North America. Headquartered in Tampa, Florida, the USL provides unparalleled club support with a growing team of more than 50 professionals across 17 departments, ranging from operations to marketing, communications, and sponsorship.

www.uslchampionship.com