Once a Goat: Michael Umana on the Road to Brazil

After spending two seasons with Chivas USA in 2010 and 2011, Michael Umana was let go by the Goats. He took his skills to Guatamala, where he spent one year with Comunicaciones before heading back to Costa Rica this year and joining regional powerhouse Deportivo Saprissa (he joins fellow former Goat Douglas Sequeira at Saprissa). He had attributed his departure from Chivas USA as a disappointment, citing problems with the coach and club. Umana was also very critical of his time in Guatemala, stating that the league’s level of play was a lot lower than that of MLS and his experience was like taking a step back. With Comunicacions, Umana had a fairly successful campaign. He made 46 appearances with 3 goals, and helped his team with the 2012 Apertura Guatemalan title. Since joining Saprissa this season, he has made 8 appearances with one goal.

Umana has also continued to feature for his national team. Currently part of the group trying to qualify for the 2014 World Cup, Costa Rica are in second place in the Hexagonal right now, two points behind the United States and tied on points but ahead on goal differential with Mexico. Umana scored a goal in their 2-0 win against Jamaica, and helped to anchor the backline in the scoreless draw against Mexico this week at the Estadio Azteca. Here's video of the goal:

He was also named to the preliminary roster for Costa Rica’s Gold Cup campaign. It would be a great thing to see Umana at the World Cup in 2014!

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