Portland Timbers icon Diego Chara will retire from professional soccer following the conclusion of the 2027 MLS Sprint Season, the club captain announced Monday.
Portland's all-time leader in games played (450), games started (413) and minutes played (37k+) in MLS play, Chara has 13 goals and 38 assists in over 500 appearances for the Timbers across all competitions since joining as the club's first Designated Player ahead of their inaugural 2011 MLS season.
"The performances I had during the season give me that confidence as well [as] the support of my teammates, coaching staff, by the club. That gives me the stength to continue," Chara said of his decision to play one more season. "It's going to be really good and I'm really happy to have the opportunity to be back for next year."
He added: "Being for this long with the team, being one of the 'original Timbers,' I think is the best way to finish this career with the Timbers."
During his time in Portland, the legendary defensive midfielder helped the Timbers lift the 2015 MLS Cup and 2020 MLS is Back Tournament trophies, while also reaching MLS Cup in 2018 and 2021.
He was named an MLS All-Star in 2019 before earning Best XI honors in 2020.
Internationally, Chara earned two caps for Colombia in 2010-11.
"Once you cross the line of 35 years old, you start thinking about what is next. That happened to me," said Chara of retirement. "I always prepare myself to be competitive, try to give the performance, but at some point the body says, 'Ok, it's enough.'Â
"I think I'm getting that moment, and for me, I think it is the right time to do it."
