Reyes brings diverse background to United

Jacobo Reyes first set foot in Albuquerque on Tuesday and was announced as New Mexico United’s latest roster addition Friday.

It’s been something of a whirlwind week for the 22-year-old midfielder/forward, who will join NMU for the rest of the season on loan from Mexico’s Liga MX C.F. Monterrey.

Settling into new digs is hardly a big change for Reyes, who was born in Harris, Texas, played collegiately at Portland and has competed for both the U.S. and Mexico national programs since he was 13. That may explain why Albuquerque felt comfortable to Reyes right away.

“It’s as hot as Mexico right now,” he said during an introductory Zoom media conference Friday. “I’m excited to be here. I’m enjoying getting to know my teammates and looking forward to helping the team.”

Reyes is the second player added to United’s roster since Eric Quill took over as coach and Itamar Keinan signed on as sporting director in mid-June. NMU also signed midfielder Nicky Hernandez, who made his first start in last week’s 1-0 victory over Detroit City FC.

Like Hernandez, Reyes has previous experience with Quill, who worked with Reyes when he played for the U.S. Men’s National U-19 team. Reyes said his familiarity with Quill made him eager to play with United.

“I know his style of play, and he treats players very professionally,” Reyes said. “I’ve watched a lot of video clips of USL matches, and I think my skills will fit in with this club. I like to play really fast, and hopefully I can help them get more goals and assists.”

Quill offered similar expectations.

“Jacobo is a dynamic player with high-level international experience, as well as top flight experience in Mexico,” Quill said in a club release. “He will bring a terrific energy, drive, and talent to our club and make us stronger as we fight for a title.”

Since joining the professional ranks with Monterrey in 2020, Reyes has made a combined 142 appearances for the club’s First Team in Liga MX, Raya 2 of Liga de Expansion MX, and CF Monterrey U-20. He has logged more than 10,000 minutes and scored 18 goals.

“Jacobo’s talent is impossible to ignore,” Keinan said. “We are excited to welcome him to the Black & Yellow family, and are confident that his skillset and determination will help push us to the next level.”

Reyes will be available to play when United hosts Sunderland AFC for an international friendly Wednesday at Isotopes Park.