New Mexico United legend Devon Sandoval has announced his retirement from the game. Sandoval – who signed in 2018 when the club was still known as USL New Mexico – has served as the face of the club for five years. In addition to being the United’s first-ever signing, the El Dorado High School and University of New Mexico grad scored the first goal in club history. On March 9th, 2019, Sandoval received a pass from fellow New Mexican Josh Suggs and fired into the net from 20 yards away to take a 1-0 lead against Fresno FC. That goal will forever be remembered as United’s first.
In addition to that goal, Sandoval scored several others, including United’s first-ever playoff goal, and their first-ever Open Cup goal. He has been a leader, on and off the field, for this club since its inception, and will be part of the Black & Yellow family forever. United plans to honor Sandoval on social media throughout the day today, and will do so at a match during the 2023 season.
We are eternally grateful for what Devon Sandoval has meant – and will continue to mean – to this community. His hard work, humility, diligence and action are an inspiration to generations of New Mexicans.